High-level Dhaka seminar highlights national commitment, regional cooperation and innovation for a plastic-free future
In a significant push to confront the growing threat of plastic pollution, Bangladesh today hosted a high-level seminar in Dhaka in partnership with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
Titled “Accelerating Solutions for Plastic Pollution in Bangladesh,” the seminar brought together top government officials, regional leaders, youth activists, private sector innovators and international partners at the Department of Environment (DoE) conference room.
The initiative aligns with the 2025 World Environment Day theme and aims to strengthen regional cooperation and national action on sustainable plastic waste management.
The session was inaugurated by Sudhir Muralidharan, UNOPS country manager for Bangladesh and Bhutan. The event was chaired by Dr. Md. Kamruzzaman, Director General of the Department of Environment. Key addresses were delivered by Md. Obaidur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry of Industries and H.E. Indra Mani Pandey, Secretary-General of BIMSTEC.
Marine ecosystems at risk
According to recent data, over 87,000 tons of plastic waste enter Bangladesh’s rivers and seas each year, posing severe risks to marine biodiversity, human health and the national economy. The DoE reiterated its commitment to the National Action Plan for Sustainable Plastic Management (2020–2030), which seeks to reduce plastic waste by 30%, recycle 50% and eliminate 90% of targeted single-use plastics by 2026.
“Plastic pollution is not just an environmental issue—it is also an infrastructure and behavioral challenge,” said UNOPS country manager Sudhir Muralidharan. “We need bold, collective action and scalable partnerships to turn ambition into measurable impact.”
Regional solutions for a shared problem
BIMSTEC’s Secretary-General, Indra Mani Pandey, emphasized the importance of regional collaboration across the Bay of Bengal: “Plastic pollution is a shared threat that requires shared solutions. BIMSTEC is ready to strengthen cooperation to create a plastic-smart Bay of Bengal.”
The seminar featured panel discussions on sustainable finance, plastic circularity, behavioral change campaigns, youth leadership and the role of media in raising awareness. Participants also examined how innovation in the petrochemical and recycling sectors could contribute to Bangladesh’s transition toward a circular economy.
Actionable outcomes
Officials said the seminar is expected to result in a Joint Communiqué outlining strategic goals and regional commitments. A list of pilot initiatives is also being developed to launch cross-border programs on marine plastic management.
“Sustainability must be embedded at every level of industrial development,” said Industries secretary Md. Obaidur Rahman. “We must align environmental protection with industrial transformation.”
“Our department is fully committed to operationalising the national plastic action plan through innovation, accountability, and inclusive partnerships,” added DoE director general Dr. Md. Kamruzzaman.
Toward a circular future
The event signals Bangladesh’s growing leadership in environmental governance. By aligning its national goals with regional momentum, the country is poised to become a model for collaborative plastic pollution solutions in South and Southeast Asia.
