Senator Sherry Rehman, Chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change, said on World Plastic Bag Free Day on Wednesday that Pakistan is consuming 55 billion plastic bags annually, with an expected 15% increase in usage each year.

In her message, Rehman urged the nation to reconsider the environmental impact of plastic bags and their widespread use in Pakistan.

“Pakistan is grappling with severe plastic pollution,” Senator Rehman stated. “Single-use plastic bags contribute to water stagnation, littering, and harm to human, aquatic, and wildlife. These bags take hundreds of years to decompose, posing serious risks to both the environment and public health. Our cities, both large and small, face significant challenges in managing plastic waste.”

She highlighted that despite multiple efforts to curb the use of plastic bags, success has been elusive due to a lack of alternatives, slow implementation, and insufficient public awareness.

“Every citizen needs to reduce reliance on plastic items, including bags, support eco-friendly alternatives, and strictly adhere to anti-plastic policies,” Rehman urged.

Her call to action emphasised the importance of collective responsibility and the urgent need for sustainable practices to combat plastic pollution in Pakistan.