On behalf of the South Asia Co-operative Environment Program (SACEP), I would like to wish everyone a Happy World Environment Day 2023. This June 5th is a prime opportunity for all of us to recall that our region consists of about one-fourth of the world’s population, while it houses a diverse range of ecosystems associated with numerous amount of flora and fauna species.
South Asia, a highly vulnerable region to climate change, has witnessed significant impacts with over 750 million people affected by natural disasters in the past two decades. The region faces challenges from rapid urbanization, affluent lifestyles, and increased resource demand, resulting in environmental degradation and excessive waste generation. To address these interconnected issues, we must adopt a holistic approach towards sustainability, recognizing the urgent need for collective action and solutions.
The theme of this year’s World Environment Day will focus on solutions to plastic pollution under the campaign #BeatPlasticPollution. On this World Environment Day, as we come together to address the urgent issue of plastic pollution, I am honored to join millions around the world in the campaign to #BeatPlasticPollution. Today, we are reminded that our collective actions on plastic pollution truly matter.
Plastic pollution is a global challenge that demands immediate attention and concrete solutions. It is a threat to our environment, our wildlife, and our own well-being. But I am filled with hope and determination as I witness the steps being taken by governments, businesses, and individuals to combat this issue.
At SACEP, we are deeply committed to driving change and making a positive impact. Our Plastic free rivers and seas for South Asia (PLEASE) project, funded by the World Bank and co-financed by PARLEY for the Oceans, is a testament to our dedication. As the implementation agency, SACEP aims to restore the health of our rivers and seas by reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices through the PLEASE project. The project development objective of strengthening innovation and coordination of circular economy solutions to plastic pollution flowing into South Asian Seas. Together, with the support of these esteemed partners, we are determined to make a significant difference in combating plastic pollution and ensuring the well-being of our environment.
However, we cannot achieve this vision alone. It is through the collective efforts of governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and individuals that we can truly make a difference. Each one of us has a role to play in reducing plastic pollution and safeguarding our environment for future generations.
I urge you to join us in this noble cause. Let us embrace reusable alternatives, minimize the use of single-use plastics, and adopt responsible waste management practices. Together, we can create a world where plastic pollution is a thing of the past, and our rivers and seas thrive with life once again.
On this World Environment Day, let us renew our commitment to protecting our planet. By working together, we can build a sustainable future and leave a legacy of clean and healthy environments for generations to come.
Join us today in the global movement to #BeatPlasticPollution. Together, we can make a difference.
Dr. Md. Masumur Rahman
Director General, SACEP
