Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has decided to take important steps to launch environmentally friendly initiatives on the eve of Earth Day 2024, scheduled for April 22.
The celebration of Earth Day will be widespread across divisions and districts throughout Punjab, signifying the commencement of the “No to Plastic” campaign. As part of this initiative, the CM has endorsed a comprehensive ban on plastic bag usage, effective from June 5.
During a review meeting on environment-friendly initiatives led by CM Punjab, Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb highlighted the campaign’s objective: to enhance public awareness regarding the severe health risks associated with plastic pollution. She stressed the urgency of banning the production, distribution and usage of polythene bags, citing their detrimental environmental impact and contribution to respiratory ailments and other life-threatening conditions.
It was resolved that department heads and deputy commissioners would ensure strict enforcement of the plastic bag ban within their offices and jurisdictions. Additionally, educational institutions will conduct special lectures and workshops to educate the public about the health hazards of plastic.
Moreover, a special “No to Plastic” awareness campaign will be launched on Earth Day, utilizing both mass media and social media platforms.
The senior minister appealed to the public to switch to cloth and paper bags as alternatives to plastic, emphasizing their role in disease prevention. She urged businesses, shopping malls, restaurants, and bakery owners to participate in the campaign, thereby promoting public health and reducing environmental pollution. Furthermore, she advised against the use of plastic bags and containers for food and beverages at home to safeguard personal health.
Highlighting the media’s crucial role in raising awareness about environmental and health issues, the senior minister emphasized the need for citizens and media cooperation for the campaign’s success. She concluded by reiterating the chief minister’s directive, emphasizing the June 5 deadline for the complete ban on plastic bag usage.
Besides Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman, all deputy commissioners attended the meeting via video link.
