Save the environment from polythene

Biodegradable waste products recycle themselves through a natural process from way back. But ever since the industrial revolution, the unbridled use of natural resources and humankind’s obsession with modern amenities and rampant consumerism has created a burgeoning outflow of non-biodegradable products. And polythene is one of the most dangerous of these non-biodegradable items.

Polythene, or plastic, does not disintegrate in the soil. It has no bacterial composition that will decompose it. So, discarding polythene into the soil amounts to leaving that toxic material there forever. Yet, though this is common knowledge, the use of polythene continues for want of any alternative. The market is saturated with polythene products.

The government has declared that the people will soon have an alternative. The jute and textiles minister has said very soon biodegradable polymer bags made from jute, or ‘golden bags,’ will be released in the market. These golden bags will brand Bangladesh internationally. These environment-friendly bags will decompose rapidly. The government will soon market these jute-made polythene bags. There are also considerations for the private sector to eventually manufacture and market these bags.

In appearance the bags resemble the polythene bags already available in the market, but are stronger and more durable. Made of jute cellulose, these polybags decompose and mix with the soil soon. Thus these do not pollute the environment. These are being seen an excellent alternatives to the existing polythene packets.

At the trade fair this year, it was obvious that people were eager to use alternatives to the polythene bags. The jute diversification promotion centre of the textile and jute ministry in the trade fair had all sorts of products on display. People thronged to the pavilion, mainly for the jute bags and baskets.

It is encouraging that the government is placing such importance upon the golden bag. It is clear that with government patronage, the private sector too will come on board with this initiative. This will certainly be a step forward for our environment.