Coordinator to Pakistan's prime minister on climate change Romina Khurshid Alam has called on all provincial governments to adopt Punjab province’s plastic ban policy. 

This initiative aims to steer the country towards becoming plastic-free. 

Khurshid Alam's appeal comes after Punjab chief minister Maryam Nawaz recently implemented a ban on the production and sale of plastic bags across the province starting from World Environment Day (5 June).  

The policy is set to be rigorously enforced, particularly targeting hotels, restaurants, and eateries. 

In a statement, Khurshid Alam emphasised that while the goal of a plastic-free Pakistan is ambitious, it is only achievable through a unified approach.  

The prime minister's aide stressed the need for a complete prohibition on the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of plastic products at all levels. 

Khurshid Alam underscored the necessity of persistent efforts to ensure adherence to the plastic ban and to overcome the challenges associated with it.  

She also highlighted the severe environmental and health risks posed by polythene bags, including their role in exacerbating respiratory diseases and other serious health conditions. 

Furthermore, Khurshid Alam called for the promotion of eco-friendly substitutes such as cotton bags and encouraged citizens to adopt cloth and paper bags as alternatives to plastic.  

She also pointed out the critical role of public engagement and awareness campaigns in reducing the environmental footprint of plastic waste and in fostering the adoption of sustainable alternatives.