Plastic Waste Collection Drive Launched in Islamabad

News Desk 

Islamabad:  Authorities have launched a new effort to reduce plastic pollution in the federal capital by involving manufacturers and importers in the collection and recycling of discarded polythene bags.

Under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiative, three collection points have been established in Islamabad where citizens can deposit used plastic bags for recycling.

Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Deputy Director Sadia Munawar said the designated drop-off points include Chaudhry Plaza, Med Life Services near N-5 beside Islamabad Bus Terminal on Peshawar Road, and Plot No. 74 in the Industrial Area.

She said plastic bag manufacturers and importers are responsible for the complete recycling process, including collection, segregation, disinfection, transportation and reuse of discarded bags under the EPR system.

The EPA official said the authority had banned the manufacturing and sale of plastic bags in 2019, with limited exceptions for industrial and primary packaging, municipal, hospital and hazardous waste requirements.

She added that companies dealing in plastic bags are required to submit recycling plans explaining how they will collect and manage used bags to reduce environmental damage.

According to the EPA, organisations seeking approval under the initiative must submit a recycling plan and pay a Rs10,000 authorisation fee.

Munawar urged Islamabad residents to use the designated collection points instead of disposing of plastic bags with regular waste, saying public participation was essential to achieving the goal of a plastic-free capital.

Officials said the initiative aims to strengthen recycling practices, reduce plastic waste and encourage shared responsibility between producers and consumers in protecting the environment.