Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today spoke at a ceremony of the marketing initiative of affordable and eco-friendly jute bags among city consumers at Karwan Bazar in Dhaka. Photo : PID

DHAKA, Aug 31, 2025 (BSS) - Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today called upon the public to switch to affordable jute bags instead of banned polythene shopping bags.

"The government has undertaken an initiative to provide subsidized jute bags in an effort to reduce the use of harmful polythene and protect the environment. To make this initiative successful, active participation from consumers is crucial," she said. 

Rizwana, also adviser of the ministry of water resources, made the call while addressing as the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony of the marketing initiative of affordable and eco-friendly jute bags among city consumers at Karwan Bazar in the capital, said a ministry press release.

She added, "Strict action will be taken, including seizure and legal steps, if banned polythene is still found in the market. Regular market inspections will be conducted in this regard."

The Adviser noted that rampant use of polythene poses a serious threat to soil, water, and biodiversity, while jute bags are durable, reusable, and environmentally friendly. Under this project, funded by the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund, subsidized jute bags will be distributed through TCB dealers and market merchant associations, she added.

The project also aims to raise public awareness about using and reusing jute bags and to enhance the skills of entrepreneurs involved in producing diversified jute products. Training will be provided in areas such as marketing, quality control, and cost-effective production. TCB dealers and merchant associations will also receive training. Awareness will be further promoted through meetings, seminars, workshops, symposiums, and mass media campaigns.

Adviser to the ministries of Textiles and Jute, Commerce, and Civil Aviation and Tourism Bashir Uddin attended the event as special guest. 

With Textiles and Jute Secretary Md. Abdur Rouf in the chair, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Dr. Fahmida Khanam, Director General of the Department of Jute Zinath Ara, and leaders of the Karwan Bazar Business Association also spoke.

They stressed on the urgency of eliminating polythene and single-use plastics for the sake of future generations. "Let today be our pledge, no more polythene shopping bags," they declared.

Meanwhile, designated TCB dealers have already been appointed to sell these subsidized bags, which are now available at designated shops in various markets across the capital. Prices range from Tk 20, TK 25, TK 30, TK 35, TK 70 and Tk 80 depending on the quality and size of the bags.