Despite the Punjab government’s ban on plastic bags, which took effect on June 5, their use remains prevalent in Lahore, as reported by HUM News.
While the initial phase of the “No to Plastic” campaign saw strong enforcement, recent efforts to curb the use of plastic bags have significantly diminished.
Plastic bags, a staple in daily life, are notorious for their environmental impact due to their non-biodegradable nature. According to the World Health Organization, Pakistan has been using approximately 55 billion shopping bags annually over the past five years, with usage increasing by 15% each year.
In an effort to address this environmental challenge, the Punjab government introduced a ban on plastic shopping bags, allowing only those made from polyethene that are thicker than 75 microns, in accordance with international guidelines.
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However, despite these regulations, plastic bags continue to be widely used in Lahore. Some residents have criticized the ban as being implemented too hastily, arguing that a more extensive public awareness campaign should have preceded its enforcement.
A recent survey by the Waste Management Company (WMC), which is responsible for maintaining cleanliness in Lahore, found that the city produces around 5,000 tons of waste daily, including 400 tons of plastic and shopping bags.
Secretary of Environment Raja Jahangir highlighted the need for both governmental and public efforts to address the issue, emphasizing the health risks posed by plastic bags. He expressed optimism that significant progress could be made in reducing plastic bag usage within the next three years.
During the first month of the “No to Plastic” campaign, authorities conducted raids at 24,523 locations across Lahore and other areas of Punjab, confiscating over 10,000 kilograms of plastic bags. Despite these early efforts, the persistence of plastic bag use in Lahore suggests that further action and sustained enforcement will be necessary to achieve the campaign’s goals.
