#Plastic manufacturer’s delegation urges #reconsideration of Punjab’s disposable plastic #ban
LAHORE (MNP)A delegation representing the Plastic Manufacturers Association, Food Stuff & Packaging led by Muhammad Arshad Chaudhry, recently convened with Acting President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Zafar Mahmood Chaudhry, to express their concerns over the recent ban imposed by the Punjab government on disposable single-use plastic items. The delegation highlighted that the ban was implemented without prior consultation with industry stakeholders, potentially jeopardizing thousands of jobs and the overall contribution to the national economy. LCCI EC Member Muhammad Ejaz Tanveer and other members were also present on the occasion.
The delegation members emphasized that the ban encompassed a range of everyday items, including cups, glasses, spoons, food containers, lollipop sticks, straws, knives, trays, and other types of cutlery. Furthermore, the ban extended to flexible multi-layer packaging commonly utilized for products such as biscuits, chips, and related goods. The move has left the industry grappling with uncertainty and prompted urgent calls for a reconsideration of the decision.
The plastic manufacturers expressed their viewpoint that single-use plastic has played a crucial role in curbing the spread of diseases, especially in a post-COVID-19 world. They pointed out that leading nations such as the UAE, China, and Saudi Arabia continue to advocate for the use of single-use plastic for sanitary reasons, contrasting with Punjab’s stance. The manufacturers argued that the ban could inadvertently impact sectors such as beverages, confectionery, and other related industries.
The delegation highlighted that the waste management infrastructure, represented by the Lahore Waste Management Company, was established to effectively manage waste and environmental concerns. By shifting focus towards banning plastic items, the government appears to be deviating from its original objective. The plastic manufacturers urged the government to reconsider its decision, suggesting that a more holistic approach involving collaboration with relevant stakeholders could yield more effective outcomes.
LCCI Acting President Zafar Mahmood Chaudhry extended his complete support to the delegation’s concerns and assured them of his commitment to addressing the issue at higher administrative levels. He recognized the significance of the plastic industry to the local economy and acknowledged the legitimate apprehensions raised by the delegation.
Zafar Mahmood Ch stated, “The concerns brought forward by the plastic manufacturers are valid and warrant careful consideration. It is imperative that any decision that affects such a vital industry be made in consultation with all relevant parties to strike a balance between environmental concerns and economic sustainability.”
The plastic manufacturers’ delegation and the LCCI Acting President both agreed that a collaborative effort between the industry and the government is necessary to develop a comprehensive policy that addresses environmental challenges without compromising economic growth. The delegation expressed its willingness to engage constructively in the formulation of such a policy to ensure the interests of all stakeholders are adequately represented.
As discussions continue and the issue gains attention, industry experts, policymakers, and environmental advocates alike eagerly await further developments, hoping for a resolution that balances the urgent need for sustainable waste management with the preservation of local livelihoods and economic prosperity.
