Chittagong Correspondent:
'Seed for Plastic' is written on the wall in white. Next to it, another writing catches the eye - Give plastic, take seeds. In front of the wall, there are various types of seedlings kept in tubs, there are also books. That is, anyone can deposit unused plastic here and get nature's friend trees or read books at a discount. The 'Chittagong Boibandhu' organization has taken such an exceptional initiative to protect environmental pollution.
Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain was the chief guest at the program in collaboration with the Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) at Jamalkhan intersection of Kotwali Police Station in the city on Saturday (February 22).
At the program, chaired by the organization's manager, Sajida Jasmine, the CHSIK mayor said, "Non-biodegradable plastics are very harmful to nature. They do not decompose in water, but rather cause environmental pollution. Therefore, we will not throw them everywhere, but rather plant trees to protect the environment."
He welcomed the initiative of Boibandhu and said, "Today, instead of plastic, trees and seeds are being distributed, which is really commendable. Chittagong City Corporation has already supported various NGOs who are giving rice, pulses, fish, chicken, etc. in exchange for plastic. In the future, we will also undertake such projects, so that one kilogram of rice can be given in exchange for one kilogram of plastic or fish and chicken in exchange for five kilograms of plastic."
He further said, 'Trees are our nature's friends. They absorb toxic carbon dioxide from the air and produce oxygen, which is very important for our survival. Therefore, the more trees can be planted, the more the environment will be protected and the climate balance will be maintained.'
Sajida Jasmine, manager of the Chittagong Boibandhu Organization, said that under this program titled 'Give Plastic, Take Seeds', seeds and seedlings can be collected in exchange by depositing plastic bottles. At the same time, the opportunity to read books for free is open to readers. This exceptional initiative of the Boibandhu Organization has created a positive response among the people of Chittagong. Such initiatives should be expanded to create public awareness about reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment.
He further said that this unique program for the development of environment and knowledge will be conducted in phases in Jamalkhan, CRB, Agrabad and Patenga of the city every Friday and Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm for the next three months.
The Boibandhu organization gifted a painted mural and canvas to the Chittagong City Corporation. The organization's management council, executive and general members are overseeing and managing the initiative.
Also present at the event were City Corporation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sheikh Muhammad Touhidul Islam and Chief Cleaning Officer Commander Ikhtiar Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury.
