DHAKA, 14 Sept, 2025 (BSS): The government will appoint focal persons and form monitoring committees in every ministry to point out single-use plastics from October 2 aiming to make an environment-friendly secretariat. 

According to a press release from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the initiative will include regular inspections,   awareness campaign   and strict monitoring.

Ministries outside the secretariat will also implement the plan, which will be reviewed during monthly coordination meetings.

To enforce the decision, checks in entry-point will be introduced to prevent plastic items from entering the secretariat. Visitors will receive OTP messages instructing them not to bring single-use plastics.

Secretariat staff, including security personnel, will receive training on plastic hazards and alternatives. Banners and stickers promoting a plastic-free environment will be displayed throughout the premises. 

From the same date, canteens and shops in the secretariat will stop using disposable plastic items like bottles, cups, plates, and spoons. Alternatives such as jute and cloth bags will be encouraged.

In this regard, the environment ministry has issued letters to the ministries noting that single-use plastic poses a serious threat to the environment and biodiversity, and called for all out  cooperation to make this pilot initiative a national model.