The city of Dhaka, Bangladesh is grappling with a massive environmental issue; overwhelming plastic waste driven by its rapid urbanization and population expansion. A host of initiatives and grassroots recycling networks have sprung up as a solution to combat this challenge with local residents playing a pivotal role in collecting, sorting, and delivering plastic materials to recycling facilities. Despite extremely challenging work conditions, this grassroots collective significantly curtails plastic pollution, while providing a vital source of income for families.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community-based groups in Dhaka play a crucial role in promoting plastic recycling awareness and education by conducting outreach programs that encourage citizens to separate plastic waste from other refuse and ensure its proper disposal. Furthermore, the government of Bangladesh has also taken decisive measures to tackle plastic pollution, enacting policies and regulations that include a ban on single-use plastic bags.
Challenges, however, persist. The need for enhanced waste management infrastructure and the establishment of a more organized recycling industry remain paramount. Nonetheless, the commitment to recycling plastic in Dhaka underscores the city's dedication to managing plastic waste and mitigating the environmental repercussions associated with it.
Plastic Treasure 01
Bangladesh Dhaka br br A man wrings out plastic sheets before drying them on the banks of the Buriganga river in Dhaka
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Bangladesh Dhaka br br Along the banks of the Buriganga River covered with invasive water hyacinths dozens of tin-plate sheds surrounded by thousands of bags filled with all kinds of plastic waste form the first step in plastic recycling br
Plastic Treasure 03
Bangladesh Dhaka br br In a tributary of the Buriranga River a man collects and washes pieces of plastic from a net he placed among the water hyacinths The rapid growth of this invasive plant and the negative effects it generates on ecosystems are problematic and devastating for Bangladesh
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Bangladesh Dhaka br A young boy plays in a mountain of plastic bottles while his mother works nearby
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Bangladesh Dhaka br br A man holding his pet bird in front of a water canal full of waste Many people live in slums where plastic waste often obstructs gutters leading to flooding when it rains
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Bangladesh Dhaka br br A child surrounded by adults works in a plastic bottle recycling factory
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Bangladesh Dhaka br br In a garbage dump a woman climbs the piles of garbage to collect pieces of plastic that she will later sell to recycling factories
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Bangladesh Dhaka br br On the banks of the Buriranga River a group of men wash plastic sheets After they will dry them in the sun
Plastic Treasure 09
Bangladesh Dhaka br br During a heavy monsoon downpour a bicycle rickshaw driver ironically is wearing a homemade plastic sheet for protection against the rain as he transports bags full of plastic sheets to a recycling factory
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Bangladesh Dhaka br br A young woman dries and separates plastic by shaking a basket filled with plastic pellets in front of a fan
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Bangladesh Dhaka br br Faced with a mountain of bags containing plastic a man wearing half a football as headgear gets ready to carry heavy bags of plastic Most of the workers use this technique to protect their heads
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Bangladesh Dhaka br br A man carrying a bag of bottles walks on a mountain of plastic at a local recycling factory br
