The no plastic bag everyday initiative (NPBE+) organised by the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe) is on full swing at the Gerai Ramadhan Belia at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium’s parking area in Berakas.
The initiative is in an effort to reduce plastic usage and waste requiring the involvement of the government, private companies, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the public.
Izah, visiting the market, expressed her support for NPBE+, implemented by JASTRe in collaboration with the Youth and Sports Department, Big BWN Project and Zero Waste Brunei throughout the holy month of Ramadhan.
“Bringing our own reusable bags significantly facilitates us as buyers to carry the food and drinks. We fully support the plastic-free campaign to be expanded everywhere in the country to reduce plastic waste and pollution. This contributes to the country’s efforts on achieving sustainability,” she added. Meanwhile, kuih melaya entrepreneur Hatta Hassan of RinaRin Ent also supported the initiative, which encourages the public in bringing their own bags but also reduces the use of plastic bags. “It is hoped that the people in Brunei will begin to be aware and normalise the use of reusable bags in daily life as an alternative to single-use plastics,” he said.
He also suggested that the public, especially customers purchasing in large quantities, to bring their reusable bags to join the call to reduce the use of disposable plastic bags solely to protect the well-being of the environment.
Plastic bag usage is inseparable in our daily life, but it’s crucial to recognise the excessive use of plastic materials, not limited to plastic bags but also items such as straws and plastic wrappers, without control, has led to plastic waste pollution, resulting in negative impacts on the environment. – Adib Noor
