Plastic Pollution, Political Economy, and Policy Failure: Investigating the Implementation Barriers of Section 6A in the Bangladesh Environmental Conservation Act, 1995

Plastic Pollution, Political Economy, and Policy Failure: Investigating the Implementation Barriers of Section 6A in the Bangladesh Environmental Conservation Act, 1995 | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Plastic Pollution, Political Economy, and Policy Failure: Investigating the Implementation Barriers of Section 6A in the Bangladesh Environmental Conservation Act, 1995 Nafisa Mosaddek, Kamron Naher, Md. Mokit-Ul Hafiz This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-6049539/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract In 2002, Bangladesh became the first country to implement a ban on the use of polyethene bags. However, after 20 years, the ban has not been implemented. Hence, this study investigates the political and economic barriers to implementing the polyethene bag ban in Bangladesh. Moreover, this study employed a multi-faceted methodology to investigate plastic pollution and management strategies comprehensively. This study collected secondary data through a comprehensive review of several fundamental documents, including national policies and international frameworks. Moreover, face-to-face key informant interviews and an online survey captured diverse perspectives. This study found that the low pricing of polythene bags, the lack of alternatives to polythene bags, the high price of alternatives, and the lack of financial and infrastructural support for eco-friendly alternatives are the main economic barriers to polyethene bag bans. Notably, 91 participants (57.90%) think that the lack of cheaper alternatives, such as polyethene bags, is the main barrier to implementing the ban in Bangladesh. The results also indicated that cheaper prices (22%), easy availability (36%), and high prices of alternatives (27%) were the main reasons for participants preferring polyethene bags. The finding of this study is that a cheaper and more environmentally friendly alternative is needed in our country to implement the ban successfully. Additionally, the public and private sectors should come forward to invest in the alternative bag sector to make it cheaper for consumers. The government's initiatives, while commendable, necessitate stringent enforcement, amendments for specificity, and expansion beyond Dhaka to ensure holistic efficacy. The central government's role in influencing plastic waste management through taxation and incentives is pivotal, requiring the alignment of NGOs and civil society to foster public awareness and collaboration. This comprehensive examination serves as a foundation for informed policymaking and sustainable interventions to address Bangladesh's pressing challenges with plastic waste. Environmental Policy Environmental Economics Environmental Law Management Plastic policy ban implementation political barriers economic barriers Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 Introduction Plastics are extensively used globally because of their lightweight, high durability, adaptability, ease of manufacturing, and reduced production costs compared with comparable materials (Mai et al., 2024 ; Surendran et al., 2023 ). The global production of plastics was only 1.5 MT in 1950, which increased 215 times higher in 2015 with 322 MT (Delangiz et al., 2022 ). Moreover, it has been predicted that the global production of plastic waste will be 670 MT in 2040 (Mugobo et al., 2022 ).The plastics industry is expanding swiftly in Asia, which is presently the largest global producer (Karayilan et al., 2021). Since most plastics are intended for one-time use, half of all plastic waste comprises packaging materials (UNEP-WCMC, 2018 ; Mwanza & Mbohwa, 2017 ). Moreover, only nine per cent of these nine billion tons of plastic have been recycled (Majumder et al., 2020 ). The same holds for Bangladesh (Debnath et al., 2023 ; Mourshed et al., 2017 ). After Bangladesh's 1971 liberation war, the older commercial district of the city of Dhaka became home to a flourishing plastics manufacturing industry that exported $ 477 million in the most recent fiscal year. However, as it has no domestic polyolefin industry, the country must import its basic materials (Barrowclough & Birkbek, 2022). There are still many large and minor plastics factories operating in the country. Bangladesh had approximately 5,000 plastics-related enterprises in 2016 (Rahman, 2021 ). During the previous two decades, factories expanded by over twenty per cent annually. Due to the detrimental effects of their manufacturing and recycling processes and the hazardous residues, these industries fall under the group of Orange B category industries (Rahman, 2021 ). Due to their potential dangers to human life and the environment, the ECR 1997 requires that these enterprises maintain a significant distance from residential areas and protected areas (Frias & Nash, 2019 ; Islam et al., 2018 ). These factories must be located in industrial zones, areas with a high concentration of industry, or undeveloped land (Islam et al., 2018 ). However, the larger portion of these businesses are located in such areas within Dhaka, creating an intriguing blend of residential and commercial communities. In addition, these enterprises will receive a Location Clearance Certificate and an Environmental Clearance Certificate in that order (Gazette, 1997 ). These businesses require a certificate of no objection from the local authority, an emergency plan for negative environmental impacts, reports on the feasibility of the industrial unit, the Initial Environmental Examination of the industrial unit, the design of the Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP), and the environmental management of the industrial unit (Latif et al., 2018 ). After completing the tasks mentioned earlier, these companies must apply for an Environmental Clearance Certificate; without this clearance certificate, they will be denied access to the gas line, unable to begin test operations in the industrial unit, and thus unable to run the project at all (Ahmed et al., 2002 ). The government of Bangladesh has made it illegal to produce, import, market, sell, demonstrate for sale, stock, distribute, commercially carry, or use any polythene shopping bag or other material made of polypropylene or polyethene, or any other good that is harmful to the environment (Latif et al., 2018 ). This provision was added to the Bangladesh Environmental Conservation Act in 2002 (Bharadwaj et al., 2020 ). Despite the prohibition, plastic bags are again widely accessible throughout the nation. The government has established a three-year action plan for enforcing the prohibition, but it has yet to be executed. The amended rule states that anybody caught using a banned polythene bag would face a penalty of Tk50,000 to 10 lakh or imprisonment of 1 year up to 10 years, or both (Ahmed et al., 2002 ; Latif et al., 2018 ). Despite these regulations, plastic factories operate freely nationwide with little oversight. Therefore, it is obvious that these laws seem to exist just on paper, are not properly implemented, and there is no monitoring to determine whether these rules are being followed or not. While there may be numerous explanations for the lack of follow-through and oversight, the scope of this study will be limited to political considerations. Although there is a significant amount of research on the environmental consequences of polyethene bag bans, there is a clear lack of studies focusing on the unique economic challenges associated with implementing these bans, especially in Bangladesh. Problem statement Plastic, a cornerstone of modern convenience, has become an integral part of daily life, driving economic growth and innovation. However, the consequential surge in plastic waste poses severe threats to ecosystems, water supplies, and human health. In the context of Bangladesh, the burgeoning plastic industry, a significant contributor to the nation's economy, faces intricate challenges in environmental compliance and waste management. Despite regulatory frameworks like the Bangladesh Environmental Conservation Rules (ECR) and the Bangladesh Environmental Conservation Act (BECA), the practical implementation and enforcement of these policies remain elusive, allowing plastic factories to operate with limited oversight. The 2023 update of the ECR reflects the government's commitment to environmental conservation, yet a gap persists between regulations on paper and their on-ground execution. Therefore, as the aforementioned section states, the incongruity between legislation and its on-ground implementation, especially concerning single-use plastics, adds complexity to the issue. This study seeks to comprehensively investigate the socio-political and economical dynamics influencing the enforcement of environmental regulations, shedding light on the existing compliance landscape, its intricacies, and the influence of political factors. By scrutinizing the reasons behind the current state of environmental compliance, the research aims to not only evaluate the efficacy of governmental interventions but also act as a catalyst for proposing innovative strategies to enhance the environmental performance of plastic manufacturing industries in Dhaka. Consequently, the multifaceted analysis of this research combines GIS mapping, stakeholder surveys, and a comprehensive examination of existing policies to offer a nuanced understanding of the political and economic challenges within the plastic industry, paving the way for informed policy recommendations and fostering a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability. Research objectives To investigate environmental compliance and the economic and political factors behind this compliance scenario within plastic manufacturing industries in Bangladesh. To assess stakeholder perception regarding plastic usage and waste management. To examine the gap between global policies and the Government of Bangladesh's actions and plans regarding plastic waste management and to propose an enhanced management plan, incorporating necessary measures for the environmentally sound operation of the plastic manufacturing industries. Literature review Moreover, this study has reviewed various papers, collected and used information from relevant national and international policy papers, briefing papers and studies, research reports, publications, thesis papers, scientific journal paper articles, conducted by academicians, NGOs and INGOs. The timeframe of the reviewed paper is from 2009 to 2023. In-depth research undertaken by Islam (2012) on the plastics industries in Bangladesh uncovered multi-dimensional restrictions and a promising development outlook. He noted that the lack of a specialized institutional structure was a significant problem in the plastics industry because it prevented the provision of essential ancillary services, such as trained labor, quality control testing facilities, and cutting-edge research and development. Bangladesh was revealed to have a potential competitive advantage on the global market due to the availability of economical labor and the swiftly expanding plastic waste recycling sector as a result of the rising price of petroleum. Hussain (2020) study covers a lot of ground, delving into the basics of plastics as well as its history, material types, and production methods. The research has concluded, yielding a straightforward guide to the improvement of Bangladesh's plastics sector and those of other developing countries based on the observations made, the interviews conducted as qualitative investigations by experts, the recommendations, and the opinions of Bangladesh's plastic industries. Mwanza and Mbohwa ( 2017 ) research sought to determine the most significant factors threatening the long-term viability of the plastics industry. A fishbone diagram was employed to classify the primary impediments on the road of sustainability into their causes, and the causes were further classified according to the economic, environmental, and social implications they had on the plastic manufacturing enterprises surveyed in Kitwe, Zambia. Majumder et al. ( 2020 ) conducted research to determine what it is about Bangladesh's small-scale plastics industry that makes it particularly harmful to the environment. Questionnaires and in-person interviews were used to compile quantitative and qualitative data, respectively, for this study. According to the research, the closeness to both suppliers of raw materials and consumers of finished goods makes Old Dhaka an attractive location for these types of industries. The authors of the research recommended creating a central community treatment facility for all of these businesses, as well as physically separating them from nearby areas to protect residents' health and the environment. More than 180 scholarly publications from environmental science and ecological studies were studied and analyzed by Nielsen et al. ( 2020 ) for their thorough assessment, which investigated the politics of plastics. Following plastic's life cycle and considering the main types of plastic objects discussed in current research allows this review to avoid being narrowly focused on specific locations, levels, or structures of governance. The report concluded by stressing the necessity for more research into the cultural norms and economic and political systems that sustain plastics' pervasiveness in society and cheap cost. In their study, Paletta et al. ( 2019 ) addressed the question of how to speed up the transition to a circular economy for plastic-based material systems. Examining a selection of plastics-converting businesses in Emilia-Romagna (Italy) that stood out for significant improvements in business models, the authors sought to stimulate changes in current manufacturing techniques. The findings demonstrate a positive correlation between business strategy and the utilization of recycled plastics. The novel significance of this document lies in the fact that it expands on the vision presented in the European Strategy for Plastics in a Circular Economy, which establishes ambitious recycling targets for the year 2025. Reviewing the many technical, governance, and sociological solutions to the problem of global plastic pollution, Wagner ( 2022 ) suggested a more comprehensive conceptual framework. He proposed this approach as a way to delve into the value-laden concerns that drive different problem statements and the preferences of different players for different solutions. This review study by Barrowclough & Birkbeck ( 2022 ) was written with the intention of aiding in the search for efficient international policy levers to combat plastic pollution. The review assessed how ideas and opinions on this multifaceted topic have changed over time, from early worries about maritime pollution and waste handling to more recent strategic directions encompassing the full life cycle of plastic and its associated climate and health impacts. It also documented the evolution of responses, beginning with voluntary methods that included a wide variety of stakeholders and progressing to more regulated methods at the national and international levels. The study is based on interviews with experts, a review of the relevant literature, and the authors' involvement in 2019 and 2020 UN and WTO informal as well as formal global oversight procedures on pollution from plastic, the environment, and development. In their research, Debnath et al. ( 2023 ) looked at the underexplored challenges associated with applying waste management in the Bangladeshi plastics sector. First, it used the Delphi technique to determine, through a literature study and expert opinion, the 16 most significant obstacles. To further investigate the relationships between these 16 obstacles, a framework founded on laboratory testing and evaluation of grey concepts and decision-making was utilized. According to the research, the five most significant barriers are a lack of awareness and knowledge about plastic waste elimination, non-compliant waste management, a lack of environmental consciousness on the part of factories, a lack of organized collection of waste and effective dumping-ground utilization, and a lack of appropriate environmental policies, laws, and regulations. Ogutu et al. ( 2023 ) looked into the way the 10-R concepts of CE are reflected in Rwanda's policies on sustainability, and they detail the reactions of Rwandan industry to the plastic ban. After conducting a qualitative analysis of the country's most important environmental sustainability policies, researchers found that they were generally in line with the 10R principles of the circular economy. The primary makers of disposable plastics in Rwanda, both those who create them and those who consume them, have reported internal and external obstacles in adapting to plastic prohibition and CE-related legislation. These include a lack of resources to invest in cutting-edge industrial technology, a dearth of knowledge to create sustainable business models, a dearth of viable alternatives to plastic packaging, and a loss of market share to Rwanda's overseas rivals who continue to rely on low-cost plastics. The results show that businesses struggle to adopt CE and other green initiatives due to a lack of government assistance, such as funding and capacity building to create novel business models, a murky legal environment, and insufficient stakeholder discussions. The authors conclude by emphasizing the necessity of ongoing cooperation between governments in terms of legislation, inventiveness from businesses, and consumer actions in order to address environmental challenges brought on by plastic waste and the enactment of CE and other green policies, as well as offering policy and managerial implications. Pathak ( 2023 ) study of neoliberal environmentalism, a philosophy that permeates global environmental governance, posits that environmentally conscious consumer behavior and purchasing decisions drive market-based change. The problem of plastic pollution has developed as a significant worldwide environmental crisis in the past decade, and it has not been immune to neoliberal logics. The plastics sector has been using the consumer's duty for recycling and proper disposal as a shield from government oversight and public scrutiny for quite some time. However, plastic control discourses have been gaining support despite these attempts. In this paper, I use India as a case study to show that the internal dynamics of the plastic industry influence stakeholder reactions to these discourses and to plastic control strategies. Anti-plastic discourses may also cause anticipatory changes in the market due to the aforementioned inter-sectoral dynamics. Research gap Despite the wealth of research on plastics industries, both globally and in the specific context of Bangladesh, there exists a notable research gap concerning the intricate dynamics of environmental compliance within Dhaka's plastic manufacturing sector. While existing studies, such as those by Islam (2012), Hossain (2016), and Majumder et al. (2018), have provided valuable insights into the challenges and potentials of the industry, a comprehensive investigation into the specific factors influencing environmental compliance, especially political barriers, is lacking. The current body of literature touches on issues ranging from economic aspects to waste management challenges but falls short in elucidating the nuanced political dimensions that contribute to the industry's compliance status. Understanding the interactions between governmental policies, industry activities, and environmental outcomes is crucial for formulating effective management plans. Therefore, this study aims to address this research gap by delving into the political intricacies affecting environmental compliance in Dhaka's plastic manufacturing industries, offering a more holistic perspective on sustainable practices in the sector. Methodology Research Design The conceptual framework has been developed to comprehend the context of plastic-induced environmental challenges, exploring the fundamental causes with a focus on political factors and circular economy, factors motivating plastic use and disposal, and the existing plans, laws, and policy measures implemented by the GoB. To achieve the objectives, this study followed the steps as outlined below: Study area The specific study area of this study is Dhaka, Bangladesh (Fig. 2 ). This study adopted a comprehensive research methodology, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches, to thoroughly collect, process, analyze, and interpret data concerning plastic pollution. The methodology encompasses an exhaustive review of relevant literature, examining critical governmental policies, a structured field survey utilizing questionnaires, in-depth Key Informant Interviews (KII) conducted face-to-face with a semi-structured questionnaire, and a Geographic Information System (GIS) for spatial analysis. The data collection process involved both primary and secondary sources. Data collection Primary data collection For the primary data collection, a structured survey questionnaire was meticulously prepared. The following steps outline the procedure for gathering primary data: · Questionnaire Preparation : Developing a structured survey questionnaire to extract detailed insights into plastic usage, disposal habits, and environmental impact. · Target Demographic : Identifying and selecting stakeholders from various sectors contributing to plastic waste, ensuring a diverse representation. · Survey Timeline : Conducting the online survey within a specific timeframe, from August to September 2023, to ensure data uniformity. · Key Informant Interviews (KII) : Developing a semi-structured questionnaire tailored for Key Informant Interviews. Semi-structured questionnaires tailored for eight face-to-face Key Informant Interviews conducted with experts and professionals between July and October 2023, utilizing a maximum variation purposive sampling method. Secondary data collection The secondary data collection involved obtaining information from the following sources: · Global and Government Legal, Plan and Policy Documents : Reviewing key governmental and global legal and policy documents related to plastic regulation, waste management, and environmental sustainability. · Selection of Key Informants : Identify and select critical informants with expertise in environmental policy, waste management, and plastic industry representatives. 3.4 Data collection method 3.4.1 Literature review An extensive literature review was conducted to achieve the study objectives, delving into relevant national and international sources. The literature sources encompassed: Review national policy papers, strategies, and plans for plastic regulation and environmental sustainability. Exploration of research reports and publications by academicians, NGOs, and INGOs, providing insights into the current state of plastic management in Bangladesh. A comprehensive review of global frameworks and principles related to plastic pollution was undertaken, including documents such as the UN Guiding Principles on Plastic Management and Circular Economy Practices. Exploration of international agreements and initiatives addressing plastic pollution, considering their implications for sustainable plastic management strategies. In-depth analysis of European Union policies and strategies related to plastic waste management, focusing on directives, regulations, and circular economy practices. Examination of successful models and initiatives within the European Union aimed at reducing plastic consumption and promoting recycling. Investigation into critical studies comparing the approaches of various countries in managing plastic pollution, considering cultural, economic, and legislative factors. Synthesis of findings from international research reports and publications, providing insights into diverse strategies and their effectiveness in mitigating plastic-related environmental challenges. Key informant interviews (KII) In this study, eight face-to-face Key Informant Interviews were conducted with experts and professionals between July and October 2023. The KII employed a semi-structured questionnaire to gather in-depth insights into plastic pollution, waste management practices, and policy implications. Maximum variation purposive sampling is a non-random sampling technique that captures a broad range of perspectives and experiences within a population. Online survey Primary data collection involved an online survey targeting a diverse pool of respondents. The structured questionnaire assessed public perceptions, behaviours, and awareness regarding plastic use and disposal. The survey took place from August to September 2023. Krejcie and Morgan's sample size determination formula is widely used for selecting a representative sample in survey research (Aryal et al., 2024; Skordoulis et al., 2024). The formula calculates the minimum required sample size based on the total population size and desired confidence level (Skordoulis et al., 2020 ). Hence, this study applied Krejcie's formula to determine the appropriate sample size for the online survey. The formula is as follows: The online survey employed a stratified sampling method to ensure representation from various demographics. This method divides the population into subgroups (strata) based on age, occupation, location, and various stakeholders (consumers, producers, and service providers). Firstly, a list of 270 and 504 participants was selected for the political and economic surveys. Afterwards, participants were randomly selected from each stratum to ensure a diverse and representative sample. The study aims to estimate population parameters with a high percentage confidence level set at 95%, as indicated by the value of X 2 of 1.96. The margin of error ( E ) is chosen to be 0.05, representing the acceptable level of variability in the estimated values. Additionally, the estimated proportion of the population with the characteristic of interest ( P ) is assumed to be 0.5, signifying the maximum variability and yielding the maximum required sample size. A research study was conducted with a sample size ( n ) of 100 and 153 individuals drawn from a total population ( N ) of 135 and 252 to estimate political and economic barriers, respectively. Data analysis Statistical tools, including SPSS v.26.0 and Microsoft Excel, were used to analyse Key Informant Interview responses and online survey data. The analysis included statistical regression and correlation models, presenting relationships in tabular and graphical formats. This robust analysis aimed to identify patterns, trends, and correlations within the collected data, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape of plastic pollution and public attitudes towards it. The overview of this study's methodologies is shown in Table 1 . Table 1 An overview on the study methodologies. Sl. Data collection method Instrument Stakeholders Total unit 1. Review of Key Literature/Policies/Strategies GoB policy papers, research report, publications conducted by academicians, NGOs and INGOs. 17 2. Key Informant Interview Semi-structured Questionnaire Relevant experts, researcher and professionals. 8 3. Survey Questionnaire Structured Questionnaire General People from different backgrounds. 100 and 157 participants for identifying political and economic barriers, respectively Results and Discussion Survey results analysis for identifying the economic barrier in the implementation of the Bangladesh Conservation Act 1995 (Plastic Ban Law 2002) in Bangladesh In this study, 157 participants were surveyed to identify the primary economic obstacles hindering the adoption of a Polyethene bag ban in Bangladesh. Participants were provided with the opportunity to choose multiple reasons, and the findings revealed a complex variety of concerns. Table 2 and Fig. 4 shows major economic barriers to implementing the polyethene bag ban in Bangladesh. It has been found that the primary economic obstacle was the lack of financial support for developing alternatives to Single-Use Plastics (57 participants, 36.30%). These findings identified the difficulty and emphasized the need for financial support, such as investments, loans, and tax exemptions, to promote the development of sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics. The second most significant obstacle identified was the lack of cheaper alternatives like Polyethylene Bags chosen by 91 participants, accounting for 57.90% of the total responses. This finding underscores the significance of affordability when alternative bag options are considered. The third major obstacle was insufficient investment to meet the production requirement for biodegradable bags. This barrier was emphasized by 58 participants, accounting for 36.90% of the total participants, who stressed the need for more investment to keep up with the rising demand for biodegradable bags. "Customer's Dependency on Polyethylene Bags" ranked fourth on the list, with 38 participants accounting for 24.20% of the responses. This finding highlights the difficulty of changing customer habits and preferences. The fifth and last obstacle found was the "Fear of Losing Customers," with 12 participants (12.00%) acknowledging it as a legitimate issue, suggesting unease about the possibility of customer loss. These results highlight the complex and interrelated aspects contributing to the economic obstacles faced in implementing a ban on Polyethene bags in Bangladesh. These factors include financial support, affordability, investment, consumer habits, and retention. The survey question asked participants whether they would purchase jute bags for 10–20 taka instead of receiving free polythene bags while buying products. A variety of viewpoints and tendencies emerged from participants of both sexes. Of the female respondents, 24 strongly agreed with the viewpoint, while 13 males shared this high agreement. Moreover, 40 girls and 16 males indicated their agreement with the idea of acquiring jute bags. In contrast, a single female strongly disagreed with the statement, while six males shared the same attitude. In addition, nine girls and ten males disagreed with purchasing jute bags. Twenty girls and 18 males maintained a neutral stance towards the remark. This extensive research showcases a variety of views and viewpoints among survey respondents, emphasizing the differing levels of agreement, disagreement, and neutrality regarding the choice of purchasing jute bags or receiving free polythene bags when shopping. Table 2 Major economic barriers to implementing the polyethene bag ban in Bangladesh as Identified by Survey Participants. Reasons Frequency Percentage Lack of Financial support for developing alternatives of single use plastics like investment, loans and tax exemption 57 36.30% Lack of cheaper alternatives like polyethene bag 91 57.90% Lack of Investment to meet the production demand of biodegradable bags 58 36.90% Customer dependency on polyethene bags 38 24.20% Fear of losing customers 12 12.00% This analysis explores the relationship between two survey findings that provide insight into consumers' attitudes and actions regarding using recycled polythene bags versus new ones provided by stores for free. Furthermore, it investigates participants' behaviours regarding the recycling of polythene bags. The first inquiry was to ascertain the participants' preferences, yielding a significant finding: 105 individuals preferred using recycled polythene bags. This result demonstrates a notable tendency towards sustainability and implementing ecologically sound activities. To gain a deeper understanding, the group of 105 individuals was further surveyed about their involvement in the recycling of polythene bags. The findings showed a diverse range of responses, with 31 indicating their involvement in recycling, 40 saying that they did not recycle, and 34 being in the irregular recycling group. Conversely, 15 individuals from the first sample showed a negative tendency towards recycled bags. Within this specific subgroup, one person actively partakes in recycling, whereas most people (12 participants) did not engage in recycling activities. In addition, two individuals occasionally engage in the recycling of polythene bags. Thirty-six individuals showed indecisiveness by responding with the phrase "Maybe" to the first question. When asked about their recycling practices, three people confirmed their involvement in recycling, whereas 20 individuals said that they do not participate in recycling activities. In addition, 13 participants were admitted to recycling polythene bags. This analysis emphasized the complex characteristics of consumer attitudes and actions around using and recycling polythene bags. Although many participants preferred using recycled bags, the actual practice of recycling varied significantly among this group. Figure 3 (a) shows the relationship between recycled polythene bag preferences over newly manufactured polythene and participants' recycling habits. Figure 3 (b) provides a summary of the analysis of participants' responses on the relationship between switching to polyethene bag alternatives. Figure 3 (c) shows their willingness to buy polyethene bag alternatives by paying extra money if the polythene bag ban becomes functional in the future. In addition, the group categorized as "Maybe" had a wide range of behaviors and a proclivity for indecisiveness, highlighting the complex interaction between consumer preferences, environmental sustainability, and convenience. This research explores the interconnected responses to two distinct survey questions, offering valuable insights into participants' perspectives and preferences regarding alternatives to plastic and their inclination to pay an additional amount if the ban on polythene bags becomes functional. The first investigation focused on participants' opinions and perspectives about the shift towards plastic alternatives. The results revealed that a substantial number of participants, precisely 122 people, were inclined to accept these choices. However, a more comprehensive picture emerged following a more thorough examination of the second query about their inclination to provide more money for these choices. Among the 122 participants in the sample who initially preferred plastic alternatives, the majority of 87 people consistently showed their readiness to pay an extra amount. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that ten people in this specific group voiced apprehension over the higher charges, while an additional 25 participants were uncertain, indicating a cautious readiness to bear more costs. Conversely, the viewpoints of the first nine people who initially opposed switching to plastic alternatives were shown to be varied concerning the second inquiry. Among all participants, five people indicated a willingness to contemplate bearing additional expenses for these choices. In contrast, one person strongly opposed paying extra, while three others remained undecided, indicating a cautious leaning towards such a readiness. The group of 25 individuals who initially held a neutral stance towards the first inquiry exhibited a wide array of responses when asked about their inclination to accept more costs for plastic alternatives. Among the whole group, 11 people showed a positive inclination towards participating in the specific activity, whereas five individuals remained opposed. In addition, 9 participants exhibited a stance characterized by an inconsistent tendency towards engagement. This study emphasizes the complex correlation between individuals' initial attitudes toward plastic alternatives and their inclination to invest financially. This analysis showcases several perspectives, indicating that although there is an overall endorsement for alternatives to plastic, there is a spectrum of opinions on the willingness to devote further cash towards these alternatives. Financial considerations, perceived benefits, and individual circumstances influence the diversity in viewpoint. This study, 157 individuals were surveyed to assess their inclination toward complying with a potential future strategy to implement more plastic-use restrictions. The comments yielded valuable insights into the attitudes and preparedness of the participants regarding implementing the ban. Most of the 91 participants (58%) demonstrated readiness to adhere to the suggested plastic ban. This finding suggests a shared sense of responsibility and endorsement for promoting environmental sustainability. The user's yes reply indicates their awareness of the environmental concerns linked to plastic use and their willingness to make the required adaptations to conform to a hypothetical prohibition. In contrast, 25 individuals, accounting for 16% of the sample, explicitly refused to adhere to a potential plastic ban. The opposition shown by this particular group to the prohibition might be attributed to a range of causes, including considerations of convenience, dependence on plastic items, and doubts over the efficacy of such regulatory measures. An additional 41 participants, accounting for 26% of the total respondents, expressed a "sometimes" position, suggesting that their compliance with the prohibition would be conditional upon certain conditions. This group exhibits a degree of willingness to adhere to the restriction, although with some conditions or limited to certain things; however, their level of dedication is not entirely uniform. The survey findings presented herein clarify diverse perspectives about the prospective enactment of a prohibition on plastic use. While a considerable proportion of individuals express support for upholding the ban, a noteworthy contingent displays hesitancy or resistance, suggesting the need for effective dissemination of information and educational initiatives on the underlying reasoning and advantages of these environmental measures. The "sometimes" group argues that to accommodate varying individual situations and preferences, it may be required to adopt varied ways of implementation. Based on insights from critical informants, many factors were identified as impediments to the successful implementation of the plastic bag ban in Bangladesh. The results and views exhibit certain levels of similarity. Most of the respondents expressed similar justifications. Several factors contributed to the continued use of polythene bags. Firstly, the affordability of polythene bags compared to other options is a significant consideration. In addition, the lack of viable alternatives to polythene bags further strengthens their popularity. Moreover, there is apprehension regarding the potential job losses resulting from a shift away from the polythene bag industry, which currently employs many workers. Furthermore, the limited availability of financial resources and infrastructure support for eco-friendly alternatives poses a challenge. Lastly, the comparatively higher cost of alternative options such as jute bags, Sonali bags, and paper bags also contributes to the continued use of polythene bags. According to the insights provided by key informants, shops attribute their non-compliance with the plastic bag ban to the absence of suitable replacement bag options. The analysis findings indicate that several factors significantly influence retailers' compliance with the enforcement of plastic bag bans. These factors include the frequency of raids conducted by public authorities, the absence of alternative products, limited awareness of the detrimental effects of plastic bags on the ecosystem and environment, and possessing a valid business license. Economic Barriers to the Implementation of the Polythene Bag Ban in Bangladesh The study identifies several significant economic barriers that have hindered the effective implementation of the polythene bag ban in Bangladesh. Despite regulatory efforts, the widespread availability and affordability of polythene bags continue to pose challenges. Key Informant Interviews (KII) and survey findings highlight five major economic constraints contributing to the failure of the ban. ● Low Cost and High Availability of Polythene Bags One of the primary reasons behind the continued use of polythene bags is their extremely low cost and easy accessibility. A single polythene bag costs less than 0.5 Bangladeshi Taka, making it a highly economical option for retailers and consumers alike. Since polythene bags are often provided for free with purchases, consumers have little incentive to seek alternatives. From a production standpoint, technological advancements have made polythene bag manufacturing both simple and cost-effective. The raw materials for production are readily available, and small-scale manufacturers can set up production units with minimal investment. Due to this low-cost advantage, polythene bags remain the preferred packaging option for businesses, particularly in the retail and food sectors. Another economic factor discouraging the shift towards sustainable alternatives is the lack of incentive for recycling. Since new polythene bags are so cheap, businesses and consumers see little value in using recycled bags. As a result, the circular economy for plastic waste remains underdeveloped, further exacerbating the issue of plastic pollution. ● Lack of Affordable and Readily Available Alternatives A major economic barrier is the absence of viable and affordable alternatives to polythene bags. While environmentally friendly options such as jute bags, paper bags, and biodegradable plastic bags exist, their production and distribution remain limited. The alternatives are not only more expensive but also less accessible in most marketplaces. Consumer dependency on polythene bags is another crucial factor. According to survey data, 57.9% of respondents cited the lack of cheaper alternatives as the primary reason for the failure of the ban. Since polythene bags are given out for free, switching to reusable alternatives requires an additional financial burden on consumers, making the transition less attractive. Additionally, biodegradable bags and jute-based alternatives have not been mass-produced at a level that would drive down costs. Many businesses hesitate to stock these products due to uncertain demand and higher storage costs. Until viable alternatives become widely available and cost-competitive, large-scale behavioral shifts among consumers and retailers will be difficult to achieve. ● High Cost of Eco-Friendly Alternatives Even when alternative materials are available, their higher prices discourage consumers and businesses from adopting them. The price disparity between polythene bags and alternatives is significant. For instance, while a standard polythene bag costs less than 1 Taka, a Sonali bag (made from jute fiber) costs between 10–12 Taka. This cost difference makes polythene bags the economically preferable choice for both consumers and retailers. Moreover, consumers are reluctant to spend extra money on shopping bags, especially when they are accustomed to receiving free polythene bags with their purchases. The survey also revealed that only 55% of respondents were willing to pay an additional amount for an eco-friendly alternative, highlighting the economic challenge of implementing a successful transition. The pricing of biodegradable bags is also influenced by imported raw materials, which adds to production costs. Since Bangladesh lacks large-scale infrastructure for local production, businesses must rely on costly imports, further driving up prices. Without subsidies or financial incentives, eco-friendly alternatives will remain an expensive option, limiting their widespread adoption. ● Lack of Financial and Infrastructural Support for Sustainable Alternatives The development of sustainable alternatives to polythene bags requires significant financial investment in research, manufacturing, and supply chain infrastructure. However, there is insufficient government and private sector funding to support such initiatives at scale. Key informants emphasized that the absence of financial incentives (such as subsidies, tax exemptions, and grants) discourages businesses from investing in alternative materials. Additionally, the infrastructure needed to mass-produce eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable bags and jute-based packaging, remains underdeveloped. The lack of efficient distribution networks and supply chains makes these products less accessible to consumers and businesses. Furthermore, many manufacturers are unwilling to take on the higher initial costs associated with transitioning to new production methods, particularly without guarantees of long-term market demand. The study also found that public-private partnerships (PPP) could play a crucial role in bridging the financial gap. If government initiatives included financial assistance, tax breaks, and research funding, businesses might be more inclined to invest in sustainable production processes. However, until such initiatives are put in place, the lack of financial and infrastructural support will continue to hinder progress. ● Fear of Job Losses in the Polythene Industry The polythene bag industry is a significant source of employment in Bangladesh, with thousands of workers engaged in production, distribution, and retail. Many stakeholders, including factory owners, workers, and small business operators, fear losing their jobs if a strict ban is implemented. The economic dependence on the polythene industry makes it politically and socially challenging to enforce regulations that could lead to widespread job losses. Workers in the plastic manufacturing sector are often low-income earners, and a shift to alternative packaging materials could disrupt their livelihoods. Without clear policies for retraining and alternative employment opportunities, enforcing a ban could have severe social and economic consequences. The study highlights the need for a gradual transition strategy, where government and industry leaders collaborate to create new job opportunities in eco-friendly manufacturing sectors. Investment in training programs and skill development initiatives could help displaced workers transition into alternative industries such as jute processing and biodegradable product manufacturing. The economic barriers to enforcing the polythene bag ban in Bangladesh are deeply interconnected, involving issues of affordability, availability, financial investment, and workforce concerns. To overcome these challenges, a multi-pronged policy approach is required, focusing on the following key areas: The government should introduce tax exemptions and financial grants for manufacturers producing eco-friendly alternatives. Lowering the cost of alternatives can help bridge the price gap between polythene and biodegradable bags. Encouraging domestic manufacturing of biodegradable and jute-based bags through financial incentives can reduce dependency on imports and make alternatives more affordable. Nationwide educational programs should highlight the environmental dangers of polythene use and encourage consumers to switch to sustainable options. Strict penalties and increased market monitoring are necessary to ensure compliance with the ban. However, enforcement efforts must be gradual to minimize economic shocks. The government and private sectors should work together to develop job retraining initiatives for workers affected by the decline of the polythene industry. Collaborating with businesses, environmental organizations, and civil society groups can help promote innovative solutions and sustainable business models. By addressing these economic barriers through a balanced approach, Bangladesh can create an effective transition strategy that supports both environmental sustainability and economic stability. Identifying the political barrier in the implementation of Bangladesh Conservation Act 1995 (Plastic ban law 2002) in Bangladesh In this study, various plastic industries employee and owner perceptions were utilized to find out the political barrier in the implementation of Bangladesh Conservation Act 1995 (Plastic ban law 2002). Employing a stratified sampling method, the participant pool of 100 respondents was carefully selected to ensure representation across various demographics plastic industries. For this study, the stakeholders criteria from different backgrounds are : Different age groups Different socio-cultural and economics groups Different Occupations Different geographical locations The location of these plastic industries are given in Fig. 4 . The interpolation map 4 (a) illustrating the distribution of X group plastic industries highlights a distinct concentration in Dhaka, emphasizing the capital's pivotal role in hosting major industrial entities. The heightened density in Dhaka suggests that X group plastic industries strategically positions itself at the heart of economic and manufacturing activities in Bangladesh. This concentration signifies the accessibility to resources, skilled labor, and logistical advantages that Dhaka offers. The city's prominence as a business and economic hub makes it an ideal location for industries like X group plastic industries to thrive, catering to both local and national demands for plastic products. On the other hand, the interpolation map 4 (b) depicting the concentration of Y plastic industries reveals a notable clustering in both Dhaka and Chittagong, underscoring the widespread influence of this industry across two major economic hubs in Bangladesh. The high density in Dhaka, the capital city, signifies its strategic positioning at the forefront of industrial activities. Simultaneously, the presence of Y group plastic industries in Chittagong, a key port city, points towards the significance of maritime transportation and trade in facilitating the distribution of plastic products. This concentration aligns with the economic importance of Dhaka and Chittagong, showcasing how industrial activities, including plastic manufacturing, gravitate towards vital economic centers. Plastic manufacturing operations in Bangladesh face significant sustainability challenges, as emphasized by experts including plastic research specialists, academicians, and industry professionals. There is an urgent need for the industry to transition toward eco-friendly practices, particularly as current operations, from resource extraction to waste disposal, fall short of environmental standards. The environmental and health impacts of plastic waste are of major concern, with widespread pollution affecting water sources, endangering marine life, and releasing toxic chemicals that pose direct risks to human health. Addressing these complex issues requires a comprehensive and urgent strategy to mitigate the harmful effects of plastic pollution on both ecosystems and public health. The plastic waste management system in Bangladesh is currently inadequate due to insufficient collection and recycling facilities. Inefficient and inconsistent waste collection leads to improper disposal methods such as open dumping and burning, further exacerbating environmental degradation. The lack of coordination and investment in waste management infrastructure presents additional obstacles, necessitating the implementation of a comprehensive strategy to improve sustainability and efficiency. Key informants highlighted their awareness of plastic manufacturing activities, particularly in major industrial hubs like Dhaka and Chittagong. They noted that the industry is characterized by significant environmental impacts and lacks a strong commitment to sustainability. There is a clear gap between current industry practices and environmentally responsible operations, underscoring the need for systemic change. The health and environmental consequences of plastic waste in Bangladesh are alarming, with contamination of water bodies, threats to biodiversity, and the release of hazardous substances into the environment. These pollutants disrupt ecosystems and increase health risks for humans, particularly through exposure to toxic chemicals. Given these interconnected challenges, a holistic approach is necessary to mitigate the impact of plastic pollution. Sustainable waste management practices must be prioritized to reduce environmental harm and protect public health. The country’s waste management infrastructure struggles with inefficiencies, primarily due to inadequate collection and recycling systems. A lack of coordination and investment further exacerbates the issue, making it difficult to properly manage and reduce plastic waste. Open dumping and burning are prevalent practices that contribute to pollution, highlighting the urgent need for a more effective and sustainable waste management strategy. Improvements can be achieved by strengthening regulations, enhancing enforcement, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Investments in advanced recycling technology, along with research into biodegradable plastics, are essential for long-term sustainability. In terms of regulatory compliance, plastic manufacturing units in Bangladesh show varying levels of adherence to environmental laws. While some businesses demonstrate commitment to legal guidelines, many others struggle to comply, indicating the need for stronger regulatory measures and oversight. Targeted interventions and enforcement strategies are necessary to ensure industry-wide compliance. A significant issue in the plastic sector is the lack of awareness among industry workers and officials regarding relevant environmental laws. While some professionals, particularly those in higher positions, have a strong understanding of regulations, many workers lack sufficient knowledge. This highlights the need for targeted educational programs and training initiatives to ensure consistent compliance across the industry. Comprehensive awareness campaigns can help bridge knowledge gaps and promote better adherence to environmental laws. The role of the government in ensuring the sustainability of plastic manufacturing industries is perceived as insufficient. Although some regulations exist, enforcement remains weak, and gaps in implementation persist. There is a pressing need for more proactive government action, including stricter oversight and the introduction of incentives to encourage eco-friendly practices. Effective collaboration among public, private, and civil society organizations is also lacking, making it difficult to address plastic consumption and waste-related issues comprehensively. While individual efforts by researchers, environmental organizations, and private entities are commendable, a more structured and cooperative approach is necessary to drive meaningful change. The Sonali bag, launched as a sustainable alternative to plastic, faced several challenges that prevented its widespread adoption in the local market. Limited consumer awareness of its environmental benefits, a lack of promotional efforts, and inconsistent availability hindered its success. Higher production costs compared to traditional plastic bags also played a significant role in limiting its adoption, as consumers were reluctant to pay extra for an alternative. Concerns regarding the durability of Sonali bags further affected consumer confidence. Additionally, insufficient engagement from retailers and businesses restricted the product’s visibility in stores, while inadequate policy support and incentives for manufacturers discouraged large-scale production. The absence of a strong distribution network and consumer hesitancy to transition to new materials ultimately contributed to the Sonali bag’s failure to sustain itself in the local market. Addressing these challenges would require increased awareness, investment in production scaling, and strategic incentives to make sustainable alternatives more accessible and affordable for consumers. Table 3 KII Analysis Summary Table Section Key Points Challenges of Plastic Waste Management Limited Infrastructure : Inadequate waste collection and sorting infrastructure leads to mixed waste streams and inefficiencies in recycling Public Awareness Gap : Lack of awareness about proper waste segregation and the environmental impact of plastic pollution Enforcement Hurdles : Weak enforcement of existing regulations on plastic use and waste management Data Deficiencies : Limited data on plastic waste lifecycle hinders effective policy interventions Overwhelmed Capacity : Volume of plastic waste generation outpaces existing capacity for collection, sorting, and recycling Limited Municipal Coverage : Insufficient waste collection coverage, especially in low-income communities Mixed Waste Streams : Minimal source segregation leads to mixed waste streams, reducing the quality and value of recyclable plastic. Emerging Solutions NGO Initiatives : NGOs like BRAC and BELA are promoting source segregation and providing designated bins Informal Waste Pickers : NGOs advocate for formalizing informal waste pickers, providing training, safety equipment, and access to recycling channels. Prospective Opportunities Rising Public Awareness : Localized NGO initiatives can be scaled for broader impact International Collaboration : Opportunities to collaborate with international waste management experts Circular Economy Potential : Shared vision among stakeholders for a circular economy approach Infrastructure Upgrade : Need for improved waste collection infrastructure and sorting practices. International Collaboration : Partnering with international waste management companies for knowledge and technology exchange. Proposed Circular Economy Approaches Social Marketing and Community Outreach : Public awareness campaigns and community outreach programs. Incentivizing Source Segregation : Reward systems for households and businesses that segregate waste Micro-entrepreneurship and Informal Waste Pickers : Formalizing and empowering informal waste pickers Producer Responsibility and Deposit-Return Systems : EPR schemes and deposit-return systems for plastic packaging. Investment in Sorting Technology : Affordable sorting technologies for better recycling efficiency Promoting Sustainable Alternatives : Encouraging reusable shopping bags and biodegradable packaging materials. Source Segregation and Sorting : Improved waste collection and sorting facilities. Efficient Sorting Facilities : Investing in advanced sorting facilities for better recycling. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) Importance : PPPs are essential for leveraging strengths of each sector to address challenges and create a sustainable future. Benefits : Resource sharing, combining expertise, long-term financial commitment, innovation, and improved service delivery Steps for Effective PPPs : Clear roles and responsibilities, transparency, accountability, and regular monitoring and evaluation. Current State of Public Awareness Rising Awareness : Increasing awareness but significant gaps remain, especially in low-income communities Role of NGOs : NGOs are crucial in bridging knowledge gaps through workshops, outreach programs, and media campaigns. NGOs in Plastic Waste Management : Waste Concern, ActionAid Bangladesh, BRAC, ESDO, Save the Children Bangladesh, and Bangladesh Red Crescent Society are actively working on plastic waste management. Transitioning to a Circular Economy Policy : Regulations encouraging eco-friendly product design and EPR schemes. Technology : Investment in recycling technologies Recycling Infrastructure : Robust collection and sorting systems Product Design : Focus on designing plastic products for recyclability and extended lifespan. Consumer Awareness : Education and awareness campaigns. Collaboration : Facilitating collaboration between government, industry, NGOs, and consumers. In this study, Table 4 . summarizes the age group of stakeholders. Table 4 Stakeholder survey data (age) analysis Age Group Count Percentage 18–25 5 5.15% 26–35 32 32.99% 36–45 15 15.46% 45–55 29 29.90% 56 and above 16 16.49% Grand Total 97 100% This table illustrates the age distribution of the survey participants, providing a breakdown of respondents across different age groups. The majority of survey participants fall within the age range of 26–35 (32.99%), indicating a higher representation from the young adult demographic. A diverse age distribution is essential for understanding varying perspectives on plastic pollution across different life stages. Private Sector Service Holders constitute the largest occupational group (30.53%), highlighting the need to consider diverse professional backgrounds in plastic pollution analysis. The distribution provides insights into how different occupational groups may perceive and be impacted by plastic pollution issues. A substantial percentage of respondents reside in rural areas (46.88%), emphasizing the importance of considering diverse geographic backgrounds for comprehensive insights. Variations in perspectives and attitudes towards plastic pollution may exist across different living environments. The survey achieves a nearly balanced representation of genders, with 51.55% female and 48.45% male respondents. Gender diversity is crucial for capturing a comprehensive range of insights related to perceptions and attitudes towards plastic pollution. Comilla and Sylhet have the highest respondent concentrations (29.47% and 26.32% respectively), highlighting regional variations in survey participation. Regional representation provides insights into variations in perspectives and experiences related to plastic pollution across different districts. A significant majority (68.04%) "Highly Agree" that plastic is a significant pollutant, emphasizing a strong consensus on the environmental impact of plastic. Another 31.96% "Agree," indicating widespread awareness and concern about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution. 100% agreement that plastic is a major source of environmental pollution, highlighting a shared awareness and recognition within the surveyed population. 100% agreement that plastic pollution has increased in recent times, suggesting a collective recognition of the growing environmental challenges associated with plastic waste. A substantial majority (67.37%) supports funding for local authorities in plastic waste management, emphasizing a prevailing sentiment in favor of investing in local efforts. 100% agreement on imposing fines for waste disposal and implementing a tax rate on plastic products, indicating strong support for regulatory measures to address plastic pollution. A significant majority (67.37%) supports making biodegradable products more affordable, aligning with the desire to incentivize environmentally friendly alternatives. When prices are equal, 44.21% express a preference for biodegradable items, signaling a substantial segment inclined towards environmentally friendly choices. A majority (64.21%) expresses dissatisfaction with the current plastic waste management system, indicating a perceived need for improvement. The majority (67.37%) acknowledges the need for plastic waste segregation, while 32.63% express uncertainty, suggesting room for educational initiatives. A majority (67.37%) believes municipalities should be primarily responsible for plastic waste segregation, emphasizing a preference for organized, community-wide efforts. User-centric responsibility (95.79%) for the cost of waste management at the household level is strongly favored, aligning with the emphasis on individual accountability. 100% agreement that managers or external entities should bear the cost of plastic waste management at the municipality level, underlining a shared expectation for robust municipal-level policies. Similar to the household level, 95.79% believe users should fund plastic waste management at the central government level, indicating a widespread belief in individual accountability. Various statistical analyses are shown in Tables 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , and 9 and in Figs. 5 , 6 , 7 . These tables and figures show a positive correlation (0.384) between the area of residence and opinions on funding plastic waste management at the central government level, suggesting geographic variations in perspectives. A weak negative correlation (-0.190) between area of residence and satisfaction with the current plastic waste management system, indicates potential regional variations in satisfaction levels. A weak negative correlation (-0.128) between the area of residence and realizing the need for plastic waste segregation, though not statistically significant, hints at potential regional differences in awareness. Table 5 Correlation between the area of residence and opinion regarding funding for waste management at Government Level Who should fund plastic waste management at the central government level? Location Pearson Correlation Who should fund plastic waste management at the central government level? 1.000 .384 Location .384 1.000 Sig. (1-tailed) Who should fund plastic waste management at the central government level? . .000 Location .000 . N Who should fund plastic waste management at the central government level? 97 97 Location 97 97 The Table 5 . presents the correlation between the area of residence (Rural, Urban, and Semi-Urban) and opinions regarding funding for waste management at the central government level. The Pearson Correlation coefficient is 0.384, indicating a positive correlation between these variables. The associated significance level (Sig.) is 0.000, suggesting a statistically significant relationship. This implies that as the area of residence changes, there is a corresponding change in opinions on who should fund plastic waste management at the central government level. The coefficients table further elaborates on the linear relationship. The unstandardized coefficient for the constant is 2.806, and for Location (Rural, Urban, Semi-Urban), it is 0.249. This suggests that, on average, there is a 0.249-unit increase in the dependent variable for each one-unit increase in the area of residence category. The collinearity statistics indicate that multicollinearity is not a significant concern, with the variance inflation factor (VIF) being 1.000 for Location. This suggests that the predictor variables are not highly correlated, supporting the reliability of the regression analysis. Table 6 Correlation and Variance Analysis( ANOVA) Between area of residence and opinion regarding implementation of tax rates on plastic products How satisfied are you with the current plastic waste management system in your area? Location Pearson Correlation How satisfied are you with the current plastic waste management system in your area? 1.000 − .190 Location − .190 1.000 Sig. (1-tailed) How satisfied are you with the current plastic waste management system in your area? . .031 Location .031 . N How satisfied are you with the current plastic waste management system in your area? 97 97 Location 97 97 Table 7 ANOVA test Between Area of Residence and Opinion regarding implementation of tax rates on plastic products Sum of Squares df Mean Square F Sig. 1 Regression 1.440 1 1.440 3.553 .062 b Residual 38.498 95 .405 Total 39.938 96 a. Dependent Variable: How satisfied are you with the current plastic waste management system in your area? b. Predictors: (Constant), Location The presented table depicts the correlation between respondents' locations (rural, urban, and semi-urban) and their satisfaction with the current plastic waste management system. The Pearson correlation coefficient of -0.190 suggests a weak negative relationship between location and satisfaction, and this association is marginally significant with a p-value of 0.031. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to further examine the impact of location on satisfaction. The ANOVA results indicate that the regression model, which includes location as a predictor, is marginally significant (p = 0.062). The coefficients table provides additional insights, showing that the constant value of 3.910 represents the estimated satisfaction level for respondents in the reference category, while the coefficient for location is -0.168, indicating a decrease in satisfaction for rural, urban, or semi-urban locations. The confidence interval for the location coefficient spans from − 0.345 to 0.009, encompassing zero, which suggests that the effect of location on satisfaction is not precisely estimated. The collinearity statistics indicate no multicollinearity issues, with tolerance values of 1.000. Table 8 Correlation, Regression Model and Variance Analysis Between Area of Residence and Segregation of plastic wastes Do you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes? Location Pearson Correlation Do you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes? 1.000 − .128 Location − .128 1.000 Sig. (1-tailed) Do you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes? . .106 Location .106 . N Do you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes? 97 97 Location 97 97 Model Summary Model R R Square Adjusted R Square Std. Error of the Estimate 1 .128 a .016 .006 .9347 a. Predictors: (Constant), Location b. Dependent Variable: Do you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes? Table 9. ANOVA Analysis Between Area of Residence and Opinion regarding Implementation of tax rates on plastic products Model Sum of Squares df Mean Square F Sig. 1 Regression 1.382 1 1.382 1.582 .212 b Residual 82.989 95 .874 Total 84.371 96 a. Dependent Variable: Do you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes? b. Predictors: (Constant), Location The presented table displays the correlation, regression model, and variance analysis between respondents' locations (rural, urban, and semi-urban) and their opinion regarding the need for plastic waste segregation from other wastes. The Pearson correlation coefficient of -0.128 indicates a weak negative relationship between location and the realization of the need for plastic waste segregation. However, this correlation is not statistically significant at the 0.05 significance level (p = 0.106). The regression model's overall fit is weak, as reflected in an R-square of 0.016, suggesting that only a small proportion of the variability in the need for plastic waste segregation can be explained by location. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) results indicates that the regression model is not statistically significant (p = 0.212), implying that the location variable does not significantly contribute to explaining the variation in respondents' opinions about the need for plastic waste segregation. Examining the coefficients, the constant value of 1.985 represents the estimated opinion level for respondents in the reference category (not specified). The coefficient for location is -0.165, indicating a decrease in the opinion about the need for plastic waste segregation for respondents in rural, urban, or semi-urban locations. The 95% confidence interval for the location coefficient spans from − 0.425 to 0.095, indicating that the effect of location on the need for plastic waste segregation is not precisely estimated. The collinearity statistics show no multicollinearity issues, with a tolerance value of 1.000. In essence, this discussion elucidates the intricate web of challenges and opportunities in Bangladesh's plastic consumption landscape. As the nation grapples with the repercussions of plastic pollution, a nuanced understanding of regional dynamics, global policies, stakeholder perceptions, and household behaviors becomes imperative. The path forward involves collaborative efforts, informed decision-making, and a commitment to sustainable practices to address the multifaceted challenges posed by plastic consumption and forge a resilient and eco-friendly future. Comparative analysis of policies and initiative taken against polyethene bag ban among eleven countries in the world The implementation of a ban on polythene bags in Bangladesh occurred in 2002 due to the revision of the Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act (Rahman, 2021 ; Hasan et al., 2023 ; Diana et al., 2023). Although the initial response from the general public was favourable, many obstacles began to arise as time went on. The effectiveness of the prohibition was impeded by inadequate enforcement and management of recycling and disposal processes, increasing the use of polymer bags. In 2002, Ireland implemented a prohibition that included a "bag tax" strategy, which entailed imposing a fee on the retail sale of polyethene bags (Nadiruzzaman et al., 2022 ; Wang et al., 2021 ; Cowan et al., 2021 ). Table 3 . shows the global plastic bag policy interventions and their impact Implementing a polyethene bag ban in Bangladesh in 2002 faced significant challenges due to various economic and political barriers (Rahman, 2021 ; Hasan et al., 2023 ). Economic barriers included the high cost of alternative bags compared to polyethene, a lack of financial support for developing alternatives, consumer preference for cheaper options, and fear of job losses in the polythene industry (Diana et al., 2022 ). Political barriers encompassed weak enforcement of existing regulations, lack of political will to implement stricter measures, and the implied influence of the plastics industry lobby. In contrast, successful case studies from other countries highlight effective strategies. Ireland's "bag tax" implementation in 2002 significantly reduced polythene bag use. Tanzania's 2005 ban on thin plastic bags, coupled with continuous monitoring, proved effective. Kenya's strict ban with penalties in 2017 led to a decrease in single-use plastics (Cowan et al., 2021 ). Unsuccessful cases like India's 2003 ban on thin plastic bags and China's 2008 ban faced challenges due to poor waste management, enforcement issues, and illegal production. These examples underscore the importance of addressing enforcement challenges and providing viable alternatives to ensure the success of such bans (Muposhi et al., 2022). Also, customers were required to remit a tax concerning this matter. This method led to a substantial decline in the utilization of Polyethene bags, as shown by a drop of over 90% within the first year. The efficacy of the tax may be attributed to its extensive scope, including all stages of production and consumer use, and its progressive tax rates that rise by consumption levels (Wang et al., 2021 ). In 2003, India implemented a rule that specifically targeted the prohibition of polyethene bags with a thickness of less than 20 µm. Nevertheless, the ban's effect has been limited, given that India remains a substantial contributor to the worldwide creation of plastic garbage (Perera et al., 2020 ). Several factors, including irresponsible individual conduct, inadequate waste management systems, and insufficient enforcement measures, have impeded the efficacy of the prohibition. The restriction implemented by Tanzania in 2005 was explicitly aimed at prohibiting the use of bags that had a thickness below 100 µm (Cowan et al., 2021 ). Subsequently, the prohibition was expanded to include bags with a thickness below 30 µm. Continuous monitoring was critical in achieving the successful outcome of the ban, as it successfully regulated the manufacturing and utilization of single-use Polyethene bags (SUP) (Wang et al., 2021 ; Muposhi et al., 2022). In 2007, the government of Kenya implemented a ban on single-use plastic (SUP) bags with a thickness of less than 30 µm (Aryal et al., 2021 ). Subsequently, in 2017, the country further reinforced this prohibition by imposing stricter measures, including the threat of jail and monetary penalties for anybody found using such bags (Banu, 2019 ; Van et al., 2021 ). Implementing a more stringent strategy resulted in a notable decrease in the use and production of single-use plastics (SUPs), primarily due to the imposition of legal consequences and ongoing surveillance measures. In 2007, Canada implemented a policy that included the prohibition of Polyethylene bags with a thickness of less than 30 µm, with the implementation of a financial charge for bags with greater thickness (Wang et al., 2021 ; Ogutu, 2023). Implementing the ban resulted in a notable decrease in the use of single-use plastic (SUP) items while simultaneously promoting the adoption of reusable bags (Ogutu, 2023). This shift in behaviour may be attributed to the general public's inclination to address the issue of plastic pollution. The imposition of a prohibition by China in 2008, which placed restrictions on the use of SUP bags with a thickness of less than 25 µm, resulted in an initial decrease in consumption (Pathak, 2023 ; Wagner, 2022 ). Nevertheless, the persistence of SUP bags in the nation might be attributed to challenges associated with monitoring and the illicit fabrication of these bags (Debnath et al., 2023 ). In 2014, the implementation of a tariff on Polyethylene bags in the United States led to a notable decrease in their use, as shown by a survey. This methodology emphasizes examining customer behaviour and has significantly reduced the use of Polyethene bags. In 2011, Wales introduced a fee on Polyethene bags, resulting in a significant decrease of 96% in the consumption of Single-Use Plastics (SUP) (Cowan et al., 2021 ). The endeavour's success may be attributed to the beneficial behavioural influence exerted by the levy. The European Union effectively mitigated the formation and production of single-use plastic (SUP) garbage by enacting a legislative measure 2015 (Nielson et al., 2020). This measure expanded the scope of responsibility to include manufacturers and included a range of activities, such as installing clean drinking water fountains. Israel's imposition of a fee on SUP bags in 2016 garnered significant popular support and led to a discernible decrease in the use of SUPs. The implementation of the legislation has catalyzed individuals to transition towards the use of ecologically sustainable reusable bags (Cowan et al., 2021 ). Although Bangladesh took prompt action in implementing its ban, the effectiveness of this measure was hindered by economic obstacles arising from inadequate enforcement and a dearth of appropriate recycling management. In order to enhance its environmental sustainability, Bangladesh has the potential to allocate resources towards strengthening enforcement mechanisms, advocating for the adoption of cost-effective alternatives, and implementing efficient recycling initiatives. The prohibition implemented in Ireland was effectively enforced by implementing a "bag tax" system, which included the imposition of charges on manufacturers and users. Bangladesh may contemplate adopting a similar strategy to promote economic sustainability and discourage using polyethene bags. The prohibition imposed by India has encountered economic obstacles, such as irresponsible individual conduct, inadequate waste management practices, and insufficient enforcement measures. In order to better its overall performance, India should prioritize reinforcing its waste management infrastructure and intensify its enforcement efforts. The success of Tanzania may be ascribed to the ongoing process of monitoring (Cowan et al., 2021 ). It is recommended that Bangladesh allocate resources towards establishing and enhancing monitoring and enforcement systems to implement the prohibition effectively. The implementation of strict penalties, including jail and fines, by the Kenyan government for the use of single-use plastic (SUP) bags with a thickness below 30 µm has resulted in positive outcomes. Bangladesh may contemplate the adoption of more stringent sanctions and the implementation of continuous monitoring mechanisms as a means to discourage the use of polyethene bags. Canada's approach is indicative of the significance placed on public sentiment. The need to successfully limit plastic pollution in Bangladesh is to promote a favourable public disposition towards this cause. China has a set of obstacles that arise from difficulties in monitoring and addressing concerns related to unlawful manufacturing. In order to guarantee the efficacy of the prohibition, Bangladesh has the potential to enhance its enforcement and monitoring efforts. The United States' emphasis on consumer behaviour and implementation of a modest tax had positive outcomes. Bangladesh has the potential to adopt comparable tactics that prioritize the significance of consumer behaviour in mitigating the use of polyethene bags. The success of Wales may be attributed to the favourable influence on behaviour resulting from the implementation of the levy. Bangladesh has the potential to foster such constructive behavioural changes among its populace using awareness campaigns. The European Union's (EU) success may be attributed to its expanded accountability towards producers and the implementation of diverse programs. Bangladesh has the potential to derive valuable insights from these programs and contemplate the adoption of comparable measures. Table 10 . Global plastic policy interventions and its impact Sl. no Country Year of ban Policy framework and products ban Impact of ban Reason 1 Bangladesh 2002 The Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act underwent revision in the year 2002. According to Rule 6ka of Clause-5 under Section-9, a prohibition has been implemented regarding the manufacturing and use of thin SUP (polythene shopping) bags. Penalties and punishments include the imposition of incarceration and monetary sanctions. The first response from the general public was favorable. The increase in the use of polymer bags may be attributed to the reluctance of law enforcement agencies and the limited accessibility of affordable alternatives. The absence of consistent enforcement and effective management of the disposal of waste materials in recycling facilities, incinerators, and the removal of such waste from landfills. 2 Ireland 2002 The implementation of a "bag tax" included the introduction of a charge on the sale of polyethylene bags at shops, with customers being responsible for paying the associated tax. The levy was only imposed on SUP bags, whereas reusable bags were granted exemption from the taxation. The implementation of a charge resulted in a decrease of over 90% in the use of polyethylene bags during the first year. A tax was imposed on the manufacturing of SUP bags, which was then passed on to customers who used them. Additionally, the tax rate was adjusted proportionally to reflect the rise in usage. 3 India 2003 In 2003, a legislative measure was enacted to prohibit the use of bags with a thickness of less than 20 µm. Subsequently, in 2019, the Ministry of Environment and Forests issued new regulations pertaining to the management and processing of plastic waste, superseding the previous laws. As part of these regulations, a partial ban on single-use plastic (SUP) goods was implemented. Despite the restriction, India remains a significant contributor to the global waste generation. The presence of irresponsible individual behavior, inadequate waste management systems, and insufficient enforcement of the prohibition are contributing factors to the issue at hand. 4 Tanzania 2005 A ban was first implemented on bags with a thickness below 100 µm, which was subsequently extended to include bags with a thickness below 30 µm. A ban has been determined to be an effective measure in regulating the use and production of single-use plastics (SUP). The effectiveness is enhanced by the use of continuous monitoring. 5 Canada 2007 and 2011 In 2007, a prohibition was enacted on Polyethene bags with a thickness of less than 30 µm, accompanied by the implementation of a financial charge on bags over 30 µm in thickness, with the imposition of a continued financial charge for bags of even greater thickness. The use of certain measures has shown to be very effective in mitigating the increasing number of single-use plastics (SUP) and promoting the utilization of reusable bags. The attitudes of individuals towards the mitigation of plastic pollution have a significant role in the reduction of single-use plastics (SUP). 6 Kenya 2007 In 2007, Kenya implemented a ban on single-use plastic (SUP) bags with a thickness below 30 µm, while also introducing a fee on SUP bags above 30 µm in thickness. In response to the perceived ineffectiveness of the ban and fee implemented in 2017, Kenya has enacted one of the most stringent prohibitions on Single-Use Plastics (SUP). This measure entails the imposition of both jail and fines for anybody found in violation of the regulation, specifically targeting the use of SUP bags with a thickness below 30 µm. Effectively reduced consumption and production of SUP Imprisonment, financial penalties, and ongoing surveillance was significant. 7 China 2008 Legislation has been enacted by The General Office of the State Council to enforce a prohibition on the provision of free single-use plastic (SUP) bags that have a thickness of less than 25 µm in shops, sales outlets, and supermarkets. Additionally, a charge has been introduced for bags that exceed 25 µm in thickness. However, certain exemptions apply in cases where these SUP bags are necessary for maintaining hygiene standards, such as the storage and handling of fresh food. At first, there was a decrease in the use of single-use plastics (SUP), but subsequently, an upward trend in their usage became evident. The prevalent presence of SUP bags in China may be attributed to a combination of inadequate supervision and illicit manufacturing practices. 8 USA 2007 A levy of USD 0.05 has been charged on purchasers of polyethylene bags. Based on a survey done in 2014, there was a decrease in the average weekly use of Polyethylene bags from 10 to 4. 9 Wales 2011 The proposed legislation aims to impose a tariff on polyethylene bags. There was a significant decrease of 96% in the occurrence of single-use plastics (SUP) subsequent to the implementation of the charge. The study observed a favorable behavioral spillover effect among individuals in their attitudes and behaviors towards the tax, specifically in relation to the reduction in the use of single-use plastics (SUP). 10 European Union 2015 A legislative measure was enacted wherein an amendment was made to Directive 94/62/EC, specifically targeting single-use Polyethylene bags. The implementation of the ban has shown efficacy in mitigating the generation and manufacturing of single-use plastic (SUP) trash. The expansion of legal obligations to include producers in the task of waste removal, as well as the implementation of programs such as the installation of complimentary clean drinking water fountains. 11 Israel 2016 Introduce a levy on SUP bags The implementation of the ban resulted in a significant decrease in the use of single-use plastics (SUP), with over 70% of the general population expressing their support for this measure. One contributing factor to the increased use of ecologically friendly reusable bags was the implementation of bag charges and corresponding legislation. The endorsement of a tax by the Israeli government and the underlying rationale for using reusable bags were influential factors. Bangladesh has the potential to foster public endorsement and incentivize the adoption of ecologically sustainable solutions. The study's findings have broader implications for environmental policy and sustainable development. The economic barriers highlight the importance of considering affordability and providing financial incentives for adopting eco-friendly alternatives. The political barriers underscore the need for strong governance, effective enforcement, and stakeholder collaboration. The case studies offer valuable lessons for policymakers in other countries grappling with plastic pollution. Successful cases like Ireland and Tanzania demonstrate the effectiveness of combining regulations with economic incentives and monitoring. Unsuccessful cases like Bangladesh and India emphasize the importance of addressing enforcement challenges and providing viable alternatives. Overall, this research contributes to the growing knowledge of plastic pollution and its management. The findings can inform policy interventions, guide educational campaigns, and promote sustainable practices in Bangladesh and beyond. As Bangladesh grapples with the environmental and health repercussions of plastic consumption, the insights from this study provide a robust foundation for informed decision-making, emphasizing the urgency of collaborative efforts between government bodies, industries, and civil society. The path forward necessitates a harmonized approach, integrating policy reforms, awareness campaigns, and sustainable practices to navigate the challenges posed by plastic pollution and forge a more environmentally resilient future. Conclusion This study aimed to identify the political and economic barriers to implementing Bangladesh's Plastic Ban Law in 2002. The findings of this study indicated that the use of polythene bags could be attributed to the limited availability of alternative materials and their widespread accessibility. The elevated cost of other options is also a contributing factor. The affordability and widespread accessibility of polyethene bags contribute to their popularity. The implementation of a substantial tax on single-use plastic (SUP) bags from the outset of manufacturing, along with the promotion of innovative strategies and investments in the development of polyethene alternatives, as well as efforts to induce changes in consumer behaviour, may lead to the eventual success of a ban on polyethene bags. Individuals bringing their polythene bags is a widely used method for minimizing the utilization of polythene materials. The objective is to enhance end-user knowledge of the negative consequences of plastic use via media advertisements and initiatives conducted by governmental and non-governmental organizations. A reward-based plastic collection program is proposed to incentivize individuals to avoid indiscriminately disposing of plastic garbage in various locations. The proposed incentives include preferential tax treatments, simplified access to bank loans, and duty-free imports of equipment and machinery for industries and enterprises involved in creating biodegradable alternatives to plastics. In an integrated fashion, these findings culminate in recommendations for strengthening regional waste management, aligning local policies with global initiatives, tailoring educational programs based on demographic insights, and implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) more rigorously. Declarations Conflict of Interest The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest to disclose. Ethical Approval The Ethical Review Board of the Center for Higher Studies and Research approved this study after inspection according to their protocol. Funding This study was self-funded. 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Bangladesh J Public Adm 29(2):15–34 Sikder S, Toha M, Mostafizur Rahman M (2024) An overview on municipal solid waste characteristics and its impacts on environment and human health. Technical Landfills and Waste Management: Volume 1: Landfill Impacts, Characterization and Valorisation, 135–155 Skordoulis M, Ntanos S, Kyriakopoulos GL, Arabatzis G, Galatsidas S, Chalikias M (2020) Environmental innovation, open innovation dynamics and competitive advantage of medium and large-sized firms. J Open Innovation: Technol Market Complex 6(4):195 Staples CA, Peterson DR, Parkerton TF, Adams WJ (1997) The environmental fate of phthalate esters: a literature review. Chemosphere 35(4):667–749 Stockholm Convention (2001) Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. Retrieved from Stockholm Convention website Surendran U, Jayakumar M, Raja P, Gopinath G, Chellam PV (2023) Microplastics in terrestrial ecosystem: Sources and migration in soil environment. Chemosphere 318:137946 Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (2019) The Swedish Waste Management System. Retrieved from Swedish EPA website Toha M, Rahman RR, Sikder S, Akbor MA, Rahman MM (2024a) Tracking of microplastics distribution patterns and their characterisation in deposited road dust from Dhaka city. Bangladesh Emerg Contaminants, 100381 Toha M, Sikder S, Rahman MM, Muhib MI (2024b) Microplastic Occurrences in Freshwater Fish of Bangladesh UNEP-WCMC IUCN (2018) NGS.(2018). Protected planet report, 70 United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) (2012) Global Partnership on Marine Litter (GPML). Retrieved from UNEP website United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) (2017) Clean Seas Campaign. Retrieved from UNEP website Van L, Hamid NA, Ahmad F, Ahmad ANA, Ruslan R, Tamyez PFM (2021) Factors of single use plastic reduction behavioral intention. Emerg Sci J 5(3):269–278 Varkey PS, Walker TR, Saunders SJ (2021) Identifying barriers to reducing single-use plastic use in a coastal metropolitan city in Canada. Ocean Coastal Manage 210:105663 Wagner M (2022) Solutions to plastic pollution: A conceptual framework to tackle a wicked problem. Microplastic Environment: Pattern Process, 333–352 Wang B, Zhao Y, Li Y (2021) How do tougher plastics ban policies modify people’s usage of plastic bags? A case study in China. Int J Environ Res Public Health 18(20):10718 Additional Declarations The authors declare no competing interests. Supplementary Files SUPPLEMENTARY.docx Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. 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3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":83722,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eConsumer responses on willingness to choose jute bags over polythene bags while purchasing goods at store (a), Relationship between recycled polythene bag preferences over newly manufactured polythene and their recycling habit (b), and analysis of participants responses on the relationship between switching to polyethene bag’s alternatives and their willingness to buy polyethene bag alternatives by paying extra money if polythene bag ban become functional in future (c).\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image3.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6049539/v1/f2971470a195bbd5450e3a7a.png"},{"id":77290943,"identity":"0fa1c323-0f1e-429f-8ab2-e7fd3158b744","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-27 06:32:45","extension":"png","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 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citationid=\"CR59\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). The global production of plastics was only 1.5 MT in 1950, which increased 215 times higher in 2015 with 322 MT (Delangiz et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Moreover, it has been predicted that the global production of plastic waste will be 670 MT in 2040 (Mugobo et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR42\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).The plastics industry is expanding swiftly in Asia, which is presently the largest global producer (Karayilan et al., 2021). Since most plastics are intended for one-time use, half of all plastic waste comprises packaging materials (UNEP-WCMC, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR63\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Mwanza \u0026amp; Mbohwa, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR44\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e). Moreover, only nine per cent of these nine billion tons of plastic have been recycled (Majumder et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). The same holds for Bangladesh (Debnath et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e; Mourshed et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR41\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e). After Bangladesh's 1971 liberation war, the older commercial district of the city of Dhaka became home to a flourishing plastics manufacturing industry that exported \u003cspan\u003e$\u003c/span\u003e477\u0026nbsp;million in the most recent fiscal year. However, as it has no domestic polyolefin industry, the country must import its basic materials (Barrowclough \u0026amp; Birkbek, 2022). There are still many large and minor plastics factories operating in the country. Bangladesh had approximately 5,000 plastics-related enterprises in 2016 (Rahman, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR54\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). During the previous two decades, factories expanded by over twenty per cent annually. Due to the detrimental effects of their manufacturing and recycling processes and the hazardous residues, these industries fall under the group of Orange B category industries (Rahman, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR54\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Due to their potential dangers to human life and the environment, the ECR 1997 requires that these enterprises maintain a significant distance from residential areas and protected areas (Frias \u0026amp; Nash, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Islam et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). These factories must be located in industrial zones, areas with a high concentration of industry, or undeveloped land (Islam et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). However, the larger portion of these businesses are located in such areas within Dhaka, creating an intriguing blend of residential and commercial communities. In addition, these enterprises will receive a Location Clearance Certificate and an Environmental Clearance Certificate in that order (Gazette, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1997\u003c/span\u003e). These businesses require a certificate of no objection from the local authority, an emergency plan for negative environmental impacts, reports on the feasibility of the industrial unit, the Initial Environmental Examination of the industrial unit, the design of the Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP), and the environmental management of the industrial unit (Latif et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). After completing the tasks mentioned earlier, these companies must apply for an Environmental Clearance Certificate; without this clearance certificate, they will be denied access to the gas line, unable to begin test operations in the industrial unit, and thus unable to run the project at all (Ahmed et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2002\u003c/span\u003e). The government of Bangladesh has made it illegal to produce, import, market, sell, demonstrate for sale, stock, distribute, commercially carry, or use any polythene shopping bag or other material made of polypropylene or polyethene, or any other good that is harmful to the environment (Latif et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). This provision was added to the Bangladesh Environmental Conservation Act in 2002 (Bharadwaj et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Despite the prohibition, plastic bags are again widely accessible throughout the nation. The government has established a three-year action plan for enforcing the prohibition, but it has yet to be executed. The amended rule states that anybody caught using a banned polythene bag would face a penalty of Tk50,000 to 10 lakh or imprisonment of 1 year up to 10 years, or both (Ahmed et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2002\u003c/span\u003e; Latif et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Despite these regulations, plastic factories operate freely nationwide with little oversight. Therefore, it is obvious that these laws seem to exist just on paper, are not properly implemented, and there is no monitoring to determine whether these rules are being followed or not. While there may be numerous explanations for the lack of follow-through and oversight, the scope of this study will be limited to political considerations. Although there is a significant amount of research on the environmental consequences of polyethene bag bans, there is a clear lack of studies focusing on the unique economic challenges associated with implementing these bans, especially in Bangladesh.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProblem statement\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlastic, a cornerstone of modern convenience, has become an integral part of daily life, driving economic growth and innovation. However, the consequential surge in plastic waste poses severe threats to ecosystems, water supplies, and human health. In the context of Bangladesh, the burgeoning plastic industry, a significant contributor to the nation's economy, faces intricate challenges in environmental compliance and waste management. Despite regulatory frameworks like the Bangladesh Environmental Conservation Rules (ECR) and the Bangladesh Environmental Conservation Act (BECA), the practical implementation and enforcement of these policies remain elusive, allowing plastic factories to operate with limited oversight. The 2023 update of the ECR reflects the government's commitment to environmental conservation, yet a gap persists between regulations on paper and their on-ground execution. Therefore, as the aforementioned section states, the incongruity between legislation and its on-ground implementation, especially concerning single-use plastics, adds complexity to the issue. This study seeks to comprehensively investigate the socio-political and economical dynamics influencing the enforcement of environmental regulations, shedding light on the existing compliance landscape, its intricacies, and the influence of political factors. By scrutinizing the reasons behind the current state of environmental compliance, the research aims to not only evaluate the efficacy of governmental interventions but also act as a catalyst for proposing innovative strategies to enhance the environmental performance of plastic manufacturing industries in Dhaka. Consequently, the multifaceted analysis of this research combines GIS mapping, stakeholder surveys, and a comprehensive examination of existing policies to offer a nuanced understanding of the political and economic challenges within the plastic industry, paving the way for informed policy recommendations and fostering a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eResearch objectives\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo investigate environmental compliance and the economic and political factors behind this compliance scenario within plastic manufacturing industries in Bangladesh.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo assess stakeholder perception regarding plastic usage and waste management.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo examine the gap between global policies and the Government of Bangladesh's actions and plans regarding plastic waste management and to propose an enhanced management plan, incorporating necessary measures for the environmentally sound operation of the plastic manufacturing industries.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Literature review","content":"\u003cp\u003eMoreover, this study has reviewed various papers, collected and used information from relevant national and international policy papers, briefing papers and studies, research reports, publications, thesis papers, scientific journal paper articles, conducted by academicians, NGOs and INGOs.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe timeframe of the reviewed paper is from 2009 to 2023.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn-depth research undertaken by \u003cb\u003eIslam (2012)\u003c/b\u003e on the plastics industries in Bangladesh uncovered multi-dimensional restrictions and a promising development outlook. He noted that the lack of a specialized institutional structure was a significant problem in the plastics industry because it prevented the provision of essential ancillary services, such as trained labor, quality control testing facilities, and cutting-edge research and development. Bangladesh was revealed to have a potential competitive advantage on the global market due to the availability of economical labor and the swiftly expanding plastic waste recycling sector as a result of the rising price of petroleum.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eHussain (2020)\u003c/b\u003e study covers a lot of ground, delving into the basics of plastics as well as its history, material types, and production methods. The research has concluded, yielding a straightforward guide to the improvement of Bangladesh's plastics sector and those of other developing countries based on the observations made, the interviews conducted as qualitative investigations by experts, the recommendations, and the opinions of Bangladesh's plastic industries.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eMwanza and Mbohwa (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR44\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e)\u003c/b\u003e research sought to determine the most significant factors threatening the long-term viability of the plastics industry. A fishbone diagram was employed to classify the primary impediments on the road of sustainability into their causes, and the causes were further classified according to the economic, environmental, and social implications they had on the plastic manufacturing enterprises surveyed in Kitwe, Zambia.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eMajumder et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e) conducted research to determine what it is about Bangladesh's small-scale plastics industry that makes it particularly harmful to the environment. Questionnaires and in-person interviews were used to compile quantitative and qualitative data, respectively, for this study. According to the research, the closeness to both suppliers of raw materials and consumers of finished goods makes Old Dhaka an attractive location for these types of industries. The authors of the research recommended creating a central community treatment facility for all of these businesses, as well as physically separating them from nearby areas to protect residents' health and the environment.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eMore than 180 scholarly publications from environmental science and ecological studies were studied and analyzed by Nielsen et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e) for their thorough assessment, which investigated the politics of plastics. Following plastic's life cycle and considering the main types of plastic objects discussed in current research allows this review to avoid being narrowly focused on specific locations, levels, or structures of governance. The report concluded by stressing the necessity for more research into the cultural norms and economic and political systems that sustain plastics' pervasiveness in society and cheap cost.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn their study, Paletta et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR51\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e) addressed the question of how to speed up the transition to a circular economy for plastic-based material systems. Examining a selection of plastics-converting businesses in Emilia-Romagna (Italy) that stood out for significant improvements in business models, the authors sought to stimulate changes in current manufacturing techniques. The findings demonstrate a positive correlation between business strategy and the utilization of recycled plastics. The novel significance of this document lies in the fact that it expands on the vision presented in the European Strategy for Plastics in a Circular Economy, which establishes ambitious recycling targets for the year 2025.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eReviewing the many technical, governance, and sociological solutions to the problem of global plastic pollution, Wagner (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR68\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e)\u003c/b\u003e suggested a more comprehensive conceptual framework. He proposed this approach as a way to delve into the value-laden concerns that drive different problem statements and the preferences of different players for different solutions.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis review study by Barrowclough \u0026amp; Birkbeck (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e)\u003c/b\u003e was written with the intention of aiding in the search for efficient international policy levers to combat plastic pollution. The review assessed how ideas and opinions on this multifaceted topic have changed over time, from early worries about maritime pollution and waste handling to more recent strategic directions encompassing the full life cycle of plastic and its associated climate and health impacts. It also documented the evolution of responses, beginning with voluntary methods that included a wide variety of stakeholders and progressing to more regulated methods at the national and international levels. The study is based on interviews with experts, a review of the relevant literature, and the authors' involvement in 2019 and 2020 UN and WTO informal as well as formal global oversight procedures on pollution from plastic, the environment, and development.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn their research, Debnath et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e) looked at the underexplored challenges associated with applying waste management in the Bangladeshi plastics sector. First, it used the Delphi technique to determine, through a literature study and expert opinion, the 16 most significant obstacles. To further investigate the relationships between these 16 obstacles, a framework founded on laboratory testing and evaluation of grey concepts and decision-making was utilized. According to the research, the five most significant barriers are a lack of awareness and knowledge about plastic waste elimination, non-compliant waste management, a lack of environmental consciousness on the part of factories, a lack of organized collection of waste and effective dumping-ground utilization, and a lack of appropriate environmental policies, laws, and regulations.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eOgutu et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR50\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e) looked into the way the 10-R concepts of CE are reflected in Rwanda's policies on sustainability, and they detail the reactions of Rwandan industry to the plastic ban. After conducting a qualitative analysis of the country's most important environmental sustainability policies, researchers found that they were generally in line with the 10R principles of the circular economy. The primary makers of disposable plastics in Rwanda, both those who create them and those who consume them, have reported internal and external obstacles in adapting to plastic prohibition and CE-related legislation. These include a lack of resources to invest in cutting-edge industrial technology, a dearth of knowledge to create sustainable business models, a dearth of viable alternatives to plastic packaging, and a loss of market share to Rwanda's overseas rivals who continue to rely on low-cost plastics. The results show that businesses struggle to adopt CE and other green initiatives due to a lack of government assistance, such as funding and capacity building to create novel business models, a murky legal environment, and insufficient stakeholder discussions. The authors conclude by emphasizing the necessity of ongoing cooperation between governments in terms of legislation, inventiveness from businesses, and consumer actions in order to address environmental challenges brought on by plastic waste and the enactment of CE and other green policies, as well as offering policy and managerial implications.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003ePathak (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR52\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e)\u003c/b\u003e study of neoliberal environmentalism, a philosophy that permeates global environmental governance, posits that environmentally conscious consumer behavior and purchasing decisions drive market-based change. The problem of plastic pollution has developed as a significant worldwide environmental crisis in the past decade, and it has not been immune to neoliberal logics. The plastics sector has been using the consumer's duty for recycling and proper disposal as a shield from government oversight and public scrutiny for quite some time. However, plastic control discourses have been gaining support despite these attempts. In this paper, I use India as a case study to show that the internal dynamics of the plastic industry influence stakeholder reactions to these discourses and to plastic control strategies. Anti-plastic discourses may also cause anticipatory changes in the market due to the aforementioned inter-sectoral dynamics.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/ul\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eResearch gap\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite the wealth of research on plastics industries, both globally and in the specific context of Bangladesh, there exists a notable research gap concerning the intricate dynamics of environmental compliance within Dhaka's plastic manufacturing sector. While existing studies, such as those by Islam (2012), Hossain (2016), and Majumder et al. (2018), have provided valuable insights into the challenges and potentials of the industry, a comprehensive investigation into the specific factors influencing environmental compliance, especially political barriers, is lacking. The current body of literature touches on issues ranging from economic aspects to waste management challenges but falls short in elucidating the nuanced political dimensions that contribute to the industry's compliance status. Understanding the interactions between governmental policies, industry activities, and environmental outcomes is crucial for formulating effective management plans. Therefore, this study aims to address this research gap by delving into the political intricacies affecting environmental compliance in Dhaka's plastic manufacturing industries, offering a more holistic perspective on sustainable practices in the sector.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Methodology","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eResearch Design\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe conceptual framework has been developed to comprehend the context of plastic-induced environmental challenges, exploring the fundamental causes with a focus on political factors and circular economy, factors motivating plastic use and disposal, and the existing plans, laws, and policy measures implemented by the GoB. To achieve the objectives, this study followed the steps as outlined below:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eStudy area\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe specific study area of this study is Dhaka, Bangladesh (Fig. \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e). This study adopted a comprehensive research methodology, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches, to thoroughly collect, process, analyze, and interpret data concerning plastic pollution. The methodology encompasses an exhaustive review of relevant literature, examining critical governmental policies, a structured field survey utilizing questionnaires, in-depth Key Informant Interviews (KII) conducted face-to-face with a semi-structured questionnaire, and a Geographic Information System (GIS) for spatial analysis. The data collection process involved both primary and secondary sources.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eData collection\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003ePrimary data collection\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFor the primary data collection, a structured survey questionnaire was meticulously prepared. The following steps outline the procedure for gathering primary data:\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026middot; \u003cstrong\u003eQuestionnaire Preparation\u003c/strong\u003e: Developing a structured survey questionnaire to extract detailed insights into plastic usage, disposal habits, and environmental impact.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026middot; \u003cstrong\u003eTarget Demographic\u003c/strong\u003e: Identifying and selecting stakeholders from various sectors contributing to plastic waste, ensuring a diverse representation.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026middot; \u003cstrong\u003eSurvey Timeline\u003c/strong\u003e: Conducting the online survey within a specific timeframe, from August to September 2023, to ensure data uniformity.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026middot; \u003cstrong\u003eKey Informant Interviews (KII)\u003c/strong\u003e: Developing a semi-structured questionnaire tailored for Key Informant Interviews. Semi-structured questionnaires tailored for eight face-to-face Key Informant Interviews conducted with experts and professionals between July and October 2023, utilizing a maximum variation purposive sampling method.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eSecondary data collection\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe secondary data collection involved obtaining information from the following sources:\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026middot; \u003cstrong\u003eGlobal and Government Legal, Plan and Policy Documents\u003c/strong\u003e: Reviewing key governmental and global legal and policy documents related to plastic regulation, waste management, and environmental sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026middot; \u003cstrong\u003eSelection of Key Informants\u003c/strong\u003e: Identify and select critical informants with expertise in environmental policy, waste management, and plastic industry representatives.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.4 Data collection method\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.4.1 Literature review\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAn extensive literature review was conducted to achieve the study objectives, delving into relevant national and international sources. The literature sources encompassed:\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eReview national policy papers, strategies, and plans for plastic regulation and environmental sustainability. Exploration of research reports and publications by academicians, NGOs, and INGOs, providing insights into the current state of plastic management in Bangladesh.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA comprehensive review of global frameworks and principles related to plastic pollution was undertaken, including documents such as the UN Guiding Principles on Plastic Management and Circular Economy Practices.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eExploration of international agreements and initiatives addressing plastic pollution, considering their implications for sustainable plastic management strategies.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn-depth analysis of European Union policies and strategies related to plastic waste management, focusing on directives, regulations, and circular economy practices.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eExamination of successful models and initiatives within the European Union aimed at reducing plastic consumption and promoting recycling.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvestigation into critical studies comparing the approaches of various countries in managing plastic pollution, considering cultural, economic, and legislative factors.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSynthesis of findings from international research reports and publications, providing insights into diverse strategies and their effectiveness in mitigating plastic-related environmental challenges.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eKey informant interviews (KII)\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn this study, eight face-to-face Key Informant Interviews were conducted with experts and professionals between July and October 2023. The KII employed a semi-structured questionnaire to gather in-depth insights into plastic pollution, waste management practices, and policy implications. Maximum variation purposive sampling is a non-random sampling technique that captures a broad range of perspectives and experiences within a population.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eOnline survey\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrimary data collection involved an online survey targeting a diverse pool of respondents. The structured questionnaire assessed public perceptions, behaviours, and awareness regarding plastic use and disposal. The survey took place from August to September 2023. Krejcie and Morgan\u0026apos;s sample size determination formula is widely used for selecting a representative sample in survey research (Aryal et al., 2024; Skordoulis et al., 2024). The formula calculates the minimum required sample size based on the total population size and desired confidence level (Skordoulis et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Hence, this study applied Krejcie\u0026apos;s formula to determine the appropriate sample size for the online survey.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe formula is as follows:\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"data:image/png;base64,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\"\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe online survey employed a stratified sampling method to ensure representation from various demographics. This method divides the population into subgroups (strata) based on age, occupation, location, and various stakeholders (consumers, producers, and service providers). Firstly, a list of 270 and 504 participants was selected for the political and economic surveys. Afterwards, participants were randomly selected from each stratum to ensure a diverse and representative sample. The study aims to estimate population parameters with a high percentage confidence level set at 95%, as indicated by the value of X\u003csup\u003e2\u003c/sup\u003e of 1.96. The margin of error (\u003cem\u003eE\u003c/em\u003e) is chosen to be 0.05, representing the acceptable level of variability in the estimated values. Additionally, the estimated proportion of the population with the characteristic of interest (\u003cem\u003eP\u003c/em\u003e) is assumed to be 0.5, signifying the maximum variability and yielding the maximum required sample size. A research study was conducted with a sample size (\u003cem\u003en\u003c/em\u003e) of 100 and 153 individuals drawn from a total population (\u003cem\u003eN\u003c/em\u003e) of 135 and 252 to estimate political and economic barriers, respectively.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eData analysis\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStatistical tools, including SPSS v.26.0 and Microsoft Excel, were used to analyse Key Informant Interview responses and online survey data. The analysis included statistical regression and correlation models, presenting relationships in tabular and graphical formats. This robust analysis aimed to identify patterns, trends, and correlations within the collected data, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape of plastic pollution and public attitudes towards it.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe overview of this study\u0026apos;s methodologies is shown in Table \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003ctable id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAn overview on the study methodologies.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSl.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eData collection method\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInstrument\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStakeholders\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal unit\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eReview of Key Literature/Policies/Strategies\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGoB policy papers, research report, publications conducted by academicians, NGOs and INGOs.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKey Informant Interview\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSemi-structured\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eQuestionnaire\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRelevant experts, researcher and professionals.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSurvey Questionnaire\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStructured\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eQuestionnaire\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGeneral People from different backgrounds.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100 and 157 participants for identifying political and economic barriers, respectively\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Results and Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSurvey results analysis for identifying the economic barrier in the implementation of the Bangladesh Conservation Act 1995 (Plastic Ban Law 2002) in Bangladesh\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this study, 157 participants were surveyed to identify the primary economic obstacles hindering the adoption of a Polyethene bag ban in Bangladesh. Participants were provided with the opportunity to choose multiple reasons, and the findings revealed a complex variety of concerns. Table \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e and Fig. \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e shows major economic barriers to implementing the polyethene bag ban in Bangladesh. It has been found that the primary economic obstacle was the lack of financial support for developing alternatives to Single-Use Plastics (57 participants, 36.30%). These findings identified the difficulty and emphasized the need for financial support, such as investments, loans, and tax exemptions, to promote the development of sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics. The second most significant obstacle identified was the lack of cheaper alternatives like Polyethylene Bags chosen by 91 participants, accounting for 57.90% of the total responses. This finding underscores the significance of affordability when alternative bag options are considered. The third major obstacle was insufficient investment to meet the production requirement for biodegradable bags. This barrier was emphasized by 58 participants, accounting for 36.90% of the total participants, who stressed the need for more investment to keep up with the rising demand for biodegradable bags. \u0026quot;Customer\u0026apos;s Dependency on Polyethylene Bags\u0026quot; ranked fourth on the list, with 38 participants accounting for 24.20% of the responses. This finding highlights the difficulty of changing customer habits and preferences. The fifth and last obstacle found was the \u0026quot;Fear of Losing Customers,\u0026quot; with 12 participants (12.00%) acknowledging it as a legitimate issue, suggesting unease about the possibility of customer loss. These results highlight the complex and interrelated aspects contributing to the economic obstacles faced in implementing a ban on Polyethene bags in Bangladesh. These factors include financial support, affordability, investment, consumer habits, and retention. The survey question asked participants whether they would purchase jute bags for 10\u0026ndash;20 taka instead of receiving free polythene bags while buying products. A variety of viewpoints and tendencies emerged from participants of both sexes. Of the female respondents, 24 strongly agreed with the viewpoint, while 13 males shared this high agreement. Moreover, 40 girls and 16 males indicated their agreement with the idea of acquiring jute bags. In contrast, a single female strongly disagreed with the statement, while six males shared the same attitude. In addition, nine girls and ten males disagreed with purchasing jute bags. Twenty girls and 18 males maintained a neutral stance towards the remark. This extensive research showcases a variety of views and viewpoints among survey respondents, emphasizing the differing levels of agreement, disagreement, and neutrality regarding the choice of purchasing jute bags or receiving free polythene bags when shopping.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"colspec\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMajor economic barriers to implementing the polyethene bag ban in Bangladesh as Identified by Survey Participants.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eReasons\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFrequency\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePercentage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLack of Financial support for developing alternatives of single use plastics like investment, loans and tax exemption\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e57\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e36.30%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLack of cheaper alternatives like polyethene bag\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e91\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e57.90%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLack of Investment to meet the production demand of biodegradable bags\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e58\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e36.90%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCustomer dependency on polyethene bags\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24.20%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFear of losing customers\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12.00%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis analysis explores the relationship between two survey findings that provide insight into consumers\u0026apos; attitudes and actions regarding using recycled polythene bags versus new ones provided by stores for free. Furthermore, it investigates participants\u0026apos; behaviours regarding the recycling of polythene bags. The first inquiry was to ascertain the participants\u0026apos; preferences, yielding a significant finding: 105 individuals preferred using recycled polythene bags. This result demonstrates a notable tendency towards sustainability and implementing ecologically sound activities. To gain a deeper understanding, the group of 105 individuals was further surveyed about their involvement in the recycling of polythene bags. The findings showed a diverse range of responses, with 31 indicating their involvement in recycling, 40 saying that they did not recycle, and 34 being in the irregular recycling group. Conversely, 15 individuals from the first sample showed a negative tendency towards recycled bags. Within this specific subgroup, one person actively partakes in recycling, whereas most people (12 participants) did not engage in recycling activities. In addition, two individuals occasionally engage in the recycling of polythene bags. Thirty-six individuals showed indecisiveness by responding with the phrase \u0026quot;Maybe\u0026quot; to the first question. When asked about their recycling practices, three people confirmed their involvement in recycling, whereas 20 individuals said that they do not participate in recycling activities. In addition, 13 participants were admitted to recycling polythene bags. This analysis emphasized the complex characteristics of consumer attitudes and actions around using and recycling polythene bags. Although many participants preferred using recycled bags, the actual practice of recycling varied significantly among this group.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFigure \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e(a) shows the relationship between recycled polythene bag preferences over newly manufactured polythene and participants\u0026apos; recycling habits. Figure \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e (b) provides a summary of the analysis of participants\u0026apos; responses on the relationship between switching to polyethene bag alternatives. Figure \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e(c) shows their willingness to buy polyethene bag alternatives by paying extra money if the polythene bag ban becomes functional in the future.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition, the group categorized as \u0026quot;Maybe\u0026quot; had a wide range of behaviors and a proclivity for indecisiveness, highlighting the complex interaction between consumer preferences, environmental sustainability, and convenience. This research explores the interconnected responses to two distinct survey questions, offering valuable insights into participants\u0026apos; perspectives and preferences regarding alternatives to plastic and their inclination to pay an additional amount if the ban on polythene bags becomes functional. The first investigation focused on participants\u0026apos; opinions and perspectives about the shift towards plastic alternatives. The results revealed that a substantial number of participants, precisely 122 people, were inclined to accept these choices. However, a more comprehensive picture emerged following a more thorough examination of the second query about their inclination to provide more money for these choices. Among the 122 participants in the sample who initially preferred plastic alternatives, the majority of 87 people consistently showed their readiness to pay an extra amount.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNevertheless, it is noteworthy that ten people in this specific group voiced apprehension over the higher charges, while an additional 25 participants were uncertain, indicating a cautious readiness to bear more costs. Conversely, the viewpoints of the first nine people who initially opposed switching to plastic alternatives were shown to be varied concerning the second inquiry. Among all participants, five people indicated a willingness to contemplate bearing additional expenses for these choices. In contrast, one person strongly opposed paying extra, while three others remained undecided, indicating a cautious leaning towards such a readiness. The group of 25 individuals who initially held a neutral stance towards the first inquiry exhibited a wide array of responses when asked about their inclination to accept more costs for plastic alternatives. Among the whole group, 11 people showed a positive inclination towards participating in the specific activity, whereas five individuals remained opposed. In addition, 9 participants exhibited a stance characterized by an inconsistent tendency towards engagement. This study emphasizes the complex correlation between individuals\u0026apos; initial attitudes toward plastic alternatives and their inclination to invest financially. This analysis showcases several perspectives, indicating that although there is an overall endorsement for alternatives to plastic, there is a spectrum of opinions on the willingness to devote further cash towards these alternatives. Financial considerations, perceived benefits, and individual circumstances influence the diversity in viewpoint.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study, 157 individuals were surveyed to assess their inclination toward complying with a potential future strategy to implement more plastic-use restrictions. The comments yielded valuable insights into the attitudes and preparedness of the participants regarding implementing the ban. Most of the 91 participants (58%) demonstrated readiness to adhere to the suggested plastic ban. This finding suggests a shared sense of responsibility and endorsement for promoting environmental sustainability. The user\u0026apos;s yes reply indicates their awareness of the environmental concerns linked to plastic use and their willingness to make the required adaptations to conform to a hypothetical prohibition. In contrast, 25 individuals, accounting for 16% of the sample, explicitly refused to adhere to a potential plastic ban. The opposition shown by this particular group to the prohibition might be attributed to a range of causes, including considerations of convenience, dependence on plastic items, and doubts over the efficacy of such regulatory measures. An additional 41 participants, accounting for 26% of the total respondents, expressed a \u0026quot;sometimes\u0026quot; position, suggesting that their compliance with the prohibition would be conditional upon certain conditions. This group exhibits a degree of willingness to adhere to the restriction, although with some conditions or limited to certain things; however, their level of dedication is not entirely uniform. The survey findings presented herein clarify diverse perspectives about the prospective enactment of a prohibition on plastic use. While a considerable proportion of individuals express support for upholding the ban, a noteworthy contingent displays hesitancy or resistance, suggesting the need for effective dissemination of information and educational initiatives on the underlying reasoning and advantages of these environmental measures. The \u0026quot;sometimes\u0026quot; group argues that to accommodate varying individual situations and preferences, it may be required to adopt varied ways of implementation. Based on insights from critical informants, many factors were identified as impediments to the successful implementation of the plastic bag ban in Bangladesh. The results and views exhibit certain levels of similarity. Most of the respondents expressed similar justifications. Several factors contributed to the continued use of polythene bags. Firstly, the affordability of polythene bags compared to other options is a significant consideration.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition, the lack of viable alternatives to polythene bags further strengthens their popularity. Moreover, there is apprehension regarding the potential job losses resulting from a shift away from the polythene bag industry, which currently employs many workers. Furthermore, the limited availability of financial resources and infrastructure support for eco-friendly alternatives poses a challenge. Lastly, the comparatively higher cost of alternative options such as jute bags, Sonali bags, and paper bags also contributes to the continued use of polythene bags. According to the insights provided by key informants, shops attribute their non-compliance with the plastic bag ban to the absence of suitable replacement bag options. The analysis findings indicate that several factors significantly influence retailers\u0026apos; compliance with the enforcement of plastic bag bans. These factors include the frequency of raids conducted by public authorities, the absence of alternative products, limited awareness of the detrimental effects of plastic bags on the ecosystem and environment, and possessing a valid business license.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec18\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eEconomic Barriers to the Implementation of the Polythene Bag Ban in Bangladesh\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe study identifies several significant economic barriers that have hindered the effective implementation of the polythene bag ban in Bangladesh. Despite regulatory efforts, the widespread availability and affordability of polythene bags continue to pose challenges. Key Informant Interviews (KII) and survey findings highlight five major economic constraints contributing to the failure of the ban.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec19\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e● \u003cspan class=\"SmallCaps\"\u003eLow Cost and High Availability of Polythene Bags\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOne of the primary reasons behind the continued use of polythene bags is their extremely low cost and easy accessibility. A single polythene bag costs less than 0.5 Bangladeshi Taka, making it a highly economical option for retailers and consumers alike. Since polythene bags are often provided for free with purchases, consumers have little incentive to seek alternatives.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFrom a production standpoint, technological advancements have made polythene bag manufacturing both simple and cost-effective. The raw materials for production are readily available, and small-scale manufacturers can set up production units with minimal investment. Due to this low-cost advantage, polythene bags remain the preferred packaging option for businesses, particularly in the retail and food sectors.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAnother economic factor discouraging the shift towards sustainable alternatives is the lack of incentive for recycling. Since new polythene bags are so cheap, businesses and consumers see little value in using recycled bags. As a result, the circular economy for plastic waste remains underdeveloped, further exacerbating the issue of plastic pollution.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec20\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e● \u003cspan class=\"SmallCaps\"\u003eLack of Affordable and Readily Available Alternatives\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA major economic barrier is the absence of viable and affordable alternatives to polythene bags. While environmentally friendly options such as jute bags, paper bags, and biodegradable plastic bags exist, their production and distribution remain limited. The alternatives are not only more expensive but also less accessible in most marketplaces.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eConsumer dependency on polythene bags is another crucial factor. According to survey data, 57.9% of respondents cited the lack of cheaper alternatives as the primary reason for the failure of the ban. Since polythene bags are given out for free, switching to reusable alternatives requires an additional financial burden on consumers, making the transition less attractive.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAdditionally, biodegradable bags and jute-based alternatives have not been mass-produced at a level that would drive down costs. Many businesses hesitate to stock these products due to uncertain demand and higher storage costs. Until viable alternatives become widely available and cost-competitive, large-scale behavioral shifts among consumers and retailers will be difficult to achieve.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec21\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e● \u003cspan class=\"SmallCaps\"\u003eHigh Cost of Eco-Friendly Alternatives\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEven when alternative materials are available, their higher prices discourage consumers and businesses from adopting them. The price disparity between polythene bags and alternatives is significant. For instance, while a standard polythene bag costs less than 1 Taka, a Sonali bag (made from jute fiber) costs between 10\u0026ndash;12 Taka. This cost difference makes polythene bags the economically preferable choice for both consumers and retailers.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMoreover, consumers are reluctant to spend extra money on shopping bags, especially when they are accustomed to receiving free polythene bags with their purchases. The survey also revealed that only 55% of respondents were willing to pay an additional amount for an eco-friendly alternative, highlighting the economic challenge of implementing a successful transition.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe pricing of biodegradable bags is also influenced by imported raw materials, which adds to production costs. Since Bangladesh lacks large-scale infrastructure for local production, businesses must rely on costly imports, further driving up prices. Without subsidies or financial incentives, eco-friendly alternatives will remain an expensive option, limiting their widespread adoption.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec22\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e● \u003cspan class=\"SmallCaps\"\u003eLack of Financial and Infrastructural Support for Sustainable Alternatives\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe development of sustainable alternatives to polythene bags requires significant financial investment in research, manufacturing, and supply chain infrastructure. However, there is insufficient government and private sector funding to support such initiatives at scale. Key informants emphasized that the absence of financial incentives (such as subsidies, tax exemptions, and grants) discourages businesses from investing in alternative materials.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAdditionally, the infrastructure needed to mass-produce eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable bags and jute-based packaging, remains underdeveloped. The lack of efficient distribution networks and supply chains makes these products less accessible to consumers and businesses. Furthermore, many manufacturers are unwilling to take on the higher initial costs associated with transitioning to new production methods, particularly without guarantees of long-term market demand.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe study also found that public-private partnerships (PPP) could play a crucial role in bridging the financial gap. If government initiatives included financial assistance, tax breaks, and research funding, businesses might be more inclined to invest in sustainable production processes. However, until such initiatives are put in place, the lack of financial and infrastructural support will continue to hinder progress.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv id=\"Sec23\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e● \u003cspan class=\"SmallCaps\"\u003eFear of Job Losses in the Polythene Industry\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe polythene bag industry is a significant source of employment in Bangladesh, with thousands of workers engaged in production, distribution, and retail. Many stakeholders, including factory owners, workers, and small business operators, fear losing their jobs if a strict ban is implemented. The economic dependence on the polythene industry makes it politically and socially challenging to enforce regulations that could lead to widespread job losses.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWorkers in the plastic manufacturing sector are often low-income earners, and a shift to alternative packaging materials could disrupt their livelihoods. Without clear policies for retraining and alternative employment opportunities, enforcing a ban could have severe social and economic consequences.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe study highlights the need for a gradual transition strategy, where government and industry leaders collaborate to create new job opportunities in eco-friendly manufacturing sectors. Investment in training programs and skill development initiatives could help displaced workers transition into alternative industries such as jute processing and biodegradable product manufacturing.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe economic barriers to enforcing the polythene bag ban in Bangladesh are deeply interconnected, involving issues of affordability, availability, financial investment, and workforce concerns. To overcome these challenges, a multi-pronged policy approach is required, focusing on the following key areas:\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe government should introduce tax exemptions and financial grants for manufacturers producing eco-friendly alternatives. Lowering the cost of alternatives can help bridge the price gap between polythene and biodegradable bags. Encouraging domestic manufacturing of biodegradable and jute-based bags through financial incentives can reduce dependency on imports and make alternatives more affordable. Nationwide educational programs should highlight the environmental dangers of polythene use and encourage consumers to switch to sustainable options. Strict penalties and increased market monitoring are necessary to ensure compliance with the ban. However, enforcement efforts must be gradual to minimize economic shocks. The government and private sectors should work together to develop job retraining initiatives for workers affected by the decline of the polythene industry. Collaborating with businesses, environmental organizations, and civil society groups can help promote innovative solutions and sustainable business models. By addressing these economic barriers through a balanced approach, Bangladesh can create an effective transition strategy that supports both environmental sustainability and economic stability.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIdentifying the political barrier in the implementation of Bangladesh Conservation Act 1995 (Plastic ban law 2002) in Bangladesh\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn this study, various plastic industries employee and owner perceptions were utilized to find out the political barrier in the implementation of Bangladesh Conservation Act 1995 (Plastic ban law 2002). Employing a stratified sampling method, the participant pool of 100 respondents was carefully selected to ensure representation across various demographics plastic industries. For this study, the stakeholders criteria from different backgrounds are :\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDifferent age groups\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDifferent socio-cultural and economics groups\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDifferent Occupations\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDifferent geographical locations\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe location of these plastic industries are given in Fig. \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe interpolation map 4 (a) illustrating the distribution of X group plastic industries highlights a distinct concentration in Dhaka, emphasizing the capital\u0026apos;s pivotal role in hosting major industrial entities. The heightened density in Dhaka suggests that X group plastic industries strategically positions itself at the heart of economic and manufacturing activities in Bangladesh. This concentration signifies the accessibility to resources, skilled labor, and logistical advantages that Dhaka offers. The city\u0026apos;s prominence as a business and economic hub makes it an ideal location for industries like X group plastic industries to thrive, catering to both local and national demands for plastic products.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOn the other hand, the interpolation map 4 (b) depicting the concentration of Y plastic industries reveals a notable clustering in both Dhaka and Chittagong, underscoring the widespread influence of this industry across two major economic hubs in Bangladesh. The high density in Dhaka, the capital city, signifies its strategic positioning at the forefront of industrial activities. Simultaneously, the presence of Y group plastic industries in Chittagong, a key port city, points towards the significance of maritime transportation and trade in facilitating the distribution of plastic products. This concentration aligns with the economic importance of Dhaka and Chittagong, showcasing how industrial activities, including plastic manufacturing, gravitate towards vital economic centers.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePlastic manufacturing operations in Bangladesh face significant sustainability challenges, as emphasized by experts including plastic research specialists, academicians, and industry professionals. There is an urgent need for the industry to transition toward eco-friendly practices, particularly as current operations, from resource extraction to waste disposal, fall short of environmental standards. The environmental and health impacts of plastic waste are of major concern, with widespread pollution affecting water sources, endangering marine life, and releasing toxic chemicals that pose direct risks to human health. Addressing these complex issues requires a comprehensive and urgent strategy to mitigate the harmful effects of plastic pollution on both ecosystems and public health.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe plastic waste management system in Bangladesh is currently inadequate due to insufficient collection and recycling facilities. Inefficient and inconsistent waste collection leads to improper disposal methods such as open dumping and burning, further exacerbating environmental degradation. The lack of coordination and investment in waste management infrastructure presents additional obstacles, necessitating the implementation of a comprehensive strategy to improve sustainability and efficiency.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKey informants highlighted their awareness of plastic manufacturing activities, particularly in major industrial hubs like Dhaka and Chittagong. They noted that the industry is characterized by significant environmental impacts and lacks a strong commitment to sustainability. There is a clear gap between current industry practices and environmentally responsible operations, underscoring the need for systemic change.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe health and environmental consequences of plastic waste in Bangladesh are alarming, with contamination of water bodies, threats to biodiversity, and the release of hazardous substances into the environment. These pollutants disrupt ecosystems and increase health risks for humans, particularly through exposure to toxic chemicals. Given these interconnected challenges, a holistic approach is necessary to mitigate the impact of plastic pollution. Sustainable waste management practices must be prioritized to reduce environmental harm and protect public health.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe country\u0026rsquo;s waste management infrastructure struggles with inefficiencies, primarily due to inadequate collection and recycling systems. A lack of coordination and investment further exacerbates the issue, making it difficult to properly manage and reduce plastic waste. Open dumping and burning are prevalent practices that contribute to pollution, highlighting the urgent need for a more effective and sustainable waste management strategy. Improvements can be achieved by strengthening regulations, enhancing enforcement, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Investments in advanced recycling technology, along with research into biodegradable plastics, are essential for long-term sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn terms of regulatory compliance, plastic manufacturing units in Bangladesh show varying levels of adherence to environmental laws. While some businesses demonstrate commitment to legal guidelines, many others struggle to comply, indicating the need for stronger regulatory measures and oversight. Targeted interventions and enforcement strategies are necessary to ensure industry-wide compliance.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA significant issue in the plastic sector is the lack of awareness among industry workers and officials regarding relevant environmental laws. While some professionals, particularly those in higher positions, have a strong understanding of regulations, many workers lack sufficient knowledge. This highlights the need for targeted educational programs and training initiatives to ensure consistent compliance across the industry. Comprehensive awareness campaigns can help bridge knowledge gaps and promote better adherence to environmental laws.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe role of the government in ensuring the sustainability of plastic manufacturing industries is perceived as insufficient. Although some regulations exist, enforcement remains weak, and gaps in implementation persist. There is a pressing need for more proactive government action, including stricter oversight and the introduction of incentives to encourage eco-friendly practices. Effective collaboration among public, private, and civil society organizations is also lacking, making it difficult to address plastic consumption and waste-related issues comprehensively. While individual efforts by researchers, environmental organizations, and private entities are commendable, a more structured and cooperative approach is necessary to drive meaningful change.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Sonali bag, launched as a sustainable alternative to plastic, faced several challenges that prevented its widespread adoption in the local market. Limited consumer awareness of its environmental benefits, a lack of promotional efforts, and inconsistent availability hindered its success. Higher production costs compared to traditional plastic bags also played a significant role in limiting its adoption, as consumers were reluctant to pay extra for an alternative. Concerns regarding the durability of Sonali bags further affected consumer confidence. Additionally, insufficient engagement from retailers and businesses restricted the product\u0026rsquo;s visibility in stores, while inadequate policy support and incentives for manufacturers discouraged large-scale production. The absence of a strong distribution network and consumer hesitancy to transition to new materials ultimately contributed to the Sonali bag\u0026rsquo;s failure to sustain itself in the local market. Addressing these challenges would require increased awareness, investment in production scaling, and strategic incentives to make sustainable alternatives more accessible and affordable for consumers.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKII Analysis Summary Table\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSection\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKey Points\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChallenges of Plastic Waste Management\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLimited Infrastructure\u003c/strong\u003e: Inadequate waste collection and sorting infrastructure leads to mixed waste streams and inefficiencies in recycling\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublic Awareness Gap\u003c/strong\u003e: Lack of awareness about proper waste segregation and the environmental impact of plastic pollution\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEnforcement Hurdles\u003c/strong\u003e: Weak enforcement of existing regulations on plastic use and waste management\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Deficiencies\u003c/strong\u003e: Limited data on plastic waste lifecycle hinders effective policy interventions\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverwhelmed Capacity\u003c/strong\u003e: Volume of plastic waste generation outpaces existing capacity for collection, sorting, and recycling\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLimited Municipal Coverage\u003c/strong\u003e: Insufficient waste collection coverage, especially in low-income communities\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMixed Waste Streams\u003c/strong\u003e: Minimal source segregation leads to mixed waste streams, reducing the quality and value of recyclable plastic.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEmerging Solutions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNGO Initiatives\u003c/strong\u003e: NGOs like BRAC and BELA are promoting source segregation and providing designated bins\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInformal Waste Pickers\u003c/strong\u003e: NGOs advocate for formalizing informal waste pickers, providing training, safety equipment, and access to recycling channels.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProspective Opportunities\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRising Public Awareness\u003c/strong\u003e: Localized NGO initiatives can be scaled for broader impact\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInternational Collaboration\u003c/strong\u003e: Opportunities to collaborate with international waste management experts\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCircular Economy Potential\u003c/strong\u003e: Shared vision among stakeholders for a circular economy approach\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInfrastructure Upgrade\u003c/strong\u003e: Need for improved waste collection infrastructure and sorting practices.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInternational Collaboration\u003c/strong\u003e: Partnering with international waste management companies for knowledge and technology exchange.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProposed Circular Economy Approaches\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSocial Marketing and Community Outreach\u003c/strong\u003e: Public awareness campaigns and community outreach programs.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIncentivizing Source Segregation\u003c/strong\u003e: Reward systems for households and businesses that segregate waste\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMicro-entrepreneurship and Informal Waste Pickers\u003c/strong\u003e: Formalizing and empowering informal waste pickers\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer Responsibility and Deposit-Return Systems\u003c/strong\u003e: EPR schemes and deposit-return systems for plastic packaging.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInvestment in Sorting Technology\u003c/strong\u003e: Affordable sorting technologies for better recycling efficiency\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePromoting Sustainable Alternatives\u003c/strong\u003e: Encouraging reusable shopping bags and biodegradable packaging materials.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource Segregation and Sorting\u003c/strong\u003e: Improved waste collection and sorting facilities.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEfficient Sorting Facilities\u003c/strong\u003e: Investing in advanced sorting facilities for better recycling.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublic-Private Partnerships (PPPs)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImportance\u003c/strong\u003e: PPPs are essential for leveraging strengths of each sector to address challenges and create a sustainable future.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBenefits\u003c/strong\u003e: Resource sharing, combining expertise, long-term financial commitment, innovation, and improved service delivery\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSteps for Effective PPPs\u003c/strong\u003e: Clear roles and responsibilities, transparency, accountability, and regular monitoring and evaluation.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCurrent State of Public Awareness\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRising Awareness\u003c/strong\u003e: Increasing awareness but significant gaps remain, especially in low-income communities\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRole of NGOs\u003c/strong\u003e: NGOs are crucial in bridging knowledge gaps through workshops, outreach programs, and media campaigns.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNGOs in Plastic Waste Management\u003c/strong\u003e: Waste Concern, ActionAid Bangladesh, BRAC, ESDO, Save the Children Bangladesh, and Bangladesh Red Crescent Society are actively working on plastic waste management.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransitioning to a Circular Economy\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePolicy\u003c/strong\u003e: Regulations encouraging eco-friendly product design and EPR schemes.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTechnology\u003c/strong\u003e: Investment in recycling technologies\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecycling Infrastructure\u003c/strong\u003e: Robust collection and sorting systems\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Design\u003c/strong\u003e: Focus on designing plastic products for recyclability and extended lifespan.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsumer Awareness\u003c/strong\u003e: Education and awareness campaigns.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCollaboration\u003c/strong\u003e: Facilitating collaboration between government, industry, NGOs, and consumers.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn this study, Table \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e. summarizes the age group of stakeholders.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"colspec\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 4\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStakeholder survey data (age) analysis\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAge Group\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCount\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePercentage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18\u0026ndash;25\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.15%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26\u0026ndash;35\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32.99%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e36\u0026ndash;45\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15.46%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45\u0026ndash;55\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29.90%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e56 and above\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16.49%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGrand Total\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThis table illustrates the age distribution of the survey participants, providing a breakdown of respondents across different age groups. The majority of survey participants fall within the age range of 26\u0026ndash;35 (32.99%), indicating a higher representation from the young adult demographic. A diverse age distribution is essential for understanding varying perspectives on plastic pollution across different life stages. Private Sector Service Holders constitute the largest occupational group (30.53%), highlighting the need to consider diverse professional backgrounds in plastic pollution analysis. The distribution provides insights into how different occupational groups may perceive and be impacted by plastic pollution issues. A substantial percentage of respondents reside in rural areas (46.88%), emphasizing the importance of considering diverse geographic backgrounds for comprehensive insights. Variations in perspectives and attitudes towards plastic pollution may exist across different living environments. The survey achieves a nearly balanced representation of genders, with 51.55% female and 48.45% male respondents. Gender diversity is crucial for capturing a comprehensive range of insights related to perceptions and attitudes towards plastic pollution. Comilla and Sylhet have the highest respondent concentrations (29.47% and 26.32% respectively), highlighting regional variations in survey participation. Regional representation provides insights into variations in perspectives and experiences related to plastic pollution across different districts. A significant majority (68.04%) \u0026quot;Highly Agree\u0026quot; that plastic is a significant pollutant, emphasizing a strong consensus on the environmental impact of plastic. Another 31.96% \u0026quot;Agree,\u0026quot; indicating widespread awareness and concern about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution. 100% agreement that plastic is a major source of environmental pollution, highlighting a shared awareness and recognition within the surveyed population. 100% agreement that plastic pollution has increased in recent times, suggesting a collective recognition of the growing environmental challenges associated with plastic waste. A substantial majority (67.37%) supports funding for local authorities in plastic waste management, emphasizing a prevailing sentiment in favor of investing in local efforts. 100% agreement on imposing fines for waste disposal and implementing a tax rate on plastic products, indicating strong support for regulatory measures to address plastic pollution. A significant majority (67.37%) supports making biodegradable products more affordable, aligning with the desire to incentivize environmentally friendly alternatives. When prices are equal, 44.21% express a preference for biodegradable items, signaling a substantial segment inclined towards environmentally friendly choices. A majority (64.21%) expresses dissatisfaction with the current plastic waste management system, indicating a perceived need for improvement. The majority (67.37%) acknowledges the need for plastic waste segregation, while 32.63% express uncertainty, suggesting room for educational initiatives. A majority (67.37%) believes municipalities should be primarily responsible for plastic waste segregation, emphasizing a preference for organized, community-wide efforts. User-centric responsibility (95.79%) for the cost of waste management at the household level is strongly favored, aligning with the emphasis on individual accountability. 100% agreement that managers or external entities should bear the cost of plastic waste management at the municipality level, underlining a shared expectation for robust municipal-level policies. Similar to the household level, 95.79% believe users should fund plastic waste management at the central government level, indicating a widespread belief in individual accountability. Various statistical analyses are shown in Tables \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e, and \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eand in\u003c/strong\u003e Figs. \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e. These tables and figures show a positive correlation (0.384) between the area of residence and opinions on funding plastic waste management at the central government level, suggesting geographic variations in perspectives. A weak negative correlation (-0.190) between area of residence and satisfaction with the current plastic waste management system, indicates potential regional variations in satisfaction levels. A weak negative correlation (-0.128) between the area of residence and realizing the need for plastic waste segregation, though not statistically significant, hints at potential regional differences in awareness.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tab5\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 5\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCorrelation between the area of residence and opinion regarding funding for waste management at Government Level\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth colspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWho should fund plastic waste management at the central government level?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePearson Correlation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWho should fund plastic waste management at the central government level?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.384\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.384\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSig. (1-tailed)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWho should fund plastic waste management at the central government level?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWho should fund plastic waste management at the central government level?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Table \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e. presents the correlation between the area of residence (Rural, Urban, and Semi-Urban) and opinions regarding funding for waste management at the central government level. The Pearson Correlation coefficient is 0.384, indicating a positive correlation between these variables. The associated significance level (Sig.) is 0.000, suggesting a statistically significant relationship. This implies that as the area of residence changes, there is a corresponding change in opinions on who should fund plastic waste management at the central government level. The coefficients table further elaborates on the linear relationship. The unstandardized coefficient for the constant is 2.806, and for Location (Rural, Urban, Semi-Urban), it is 0.249. This suggests that, on average, there is a 0.249-unit increase in the dependent variable for each one-unit increase in the area of residence category. The collinearity statistics indicate that multicollinearity is not a significant concern, with the variance inflation factor (VIF) being 1.000 for Location. This suggests that the predictor variables are not highly correlated, supporting the reliability of the regression analysis.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tab6\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 6\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCorrelation and Variance Analysis( ANOVA) Between area of residence and opinion regarding implementation of tax rates on plastic products\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth colspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHow satisfied are you with the current plastic waste management system in your area?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePearson Correlation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHow satisfied are you with the current plastic waste management system in your area?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;.190\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;.190\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSig. (1-tailed)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHow satisfied are you with the current plastic waste management system in your area?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.031\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.031\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHow satisfied are you with the current plastic waste management system in your area?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"colspec\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"colspec\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tab7\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 7\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eANOVA test Between Area of Residence and Opinion regarding implementation of tax rates on plastic products\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth colspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSum of Squares\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003edf\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMean Square\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eF\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSig.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRegression\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.440\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.440\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.553\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.062\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResidual\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38.498\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e95\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.405\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39.938\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e96\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ea. Dependent Variable: How satisfied are you with the current plastic waste management system in your area?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eb. Predictors: (Constant), Location\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003eThe presented table depicts the correlation between respondents\u0026apos; locations (rural, urban, and semi-urban) and their satisfaction with the current plastic waste management system. The Pearson correlation coefficient of -0.190 suggests a weak negative relationship between location and satisfaction, and this association is marginally significant with a p-value of 0.031. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to further examine the impact of location on satisfaction. The ANOVA results indicate that the regression model, which includes location as a predictor, is marginally significant (p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.062). The coefficients table provides additional insights, showing that the constant value of 3.910 represents the estimated satisfaction level for respondents in the reference category, while the coefficient for location is -0.168, indicating a decrease in satisfaction for rural, urban, or semi-urban locations. The confidence interval for the location coefficient spans from \u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;0.345 to 0.009, encompassing zero, which suggests that the effect of location on satisfaction is not precisely estimated. The collinearity statistics indicate no multicollinearity issues, with tolerance values of 1.000.\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tab8\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 8\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCorrelation, Regression Model and Variance Analysis Between Area of Residence and Segregation of plastic wastes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth colspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePearson Correlation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;.128\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;.128\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.000\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSig. (1-tailed)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.106\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.106\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eN\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDo you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tabb\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth colspan=\"5\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eModel Summary\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eModel\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eR\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eR Square\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAdjusted R Square\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStd. Error of the Estimate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.128\u003csup\u003ea\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.016\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.006\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.9347\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003ea. Predictors: (Constant), Location\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eb. Dependent Variable: Do you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"colspec\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 9.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eANOVA Analysis Between Area of Residence and Opinion regarding Implementation of tax rates on plastic products\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"colspec\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tabc\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eModel\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSum of Squares\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003edf\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMean Square\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eF\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSig.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRegression\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.382\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.382\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.582\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.212\u003csup\u003eb\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResidual\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e82.989\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e95\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e.874\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e84.371\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e96\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"colspec\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tabd\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ea. Dependent Variable: Do you realize the need of plastic waste segregation from other wastes?\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eb. Predictors: (Constant), Location\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe presented table displays the correlation, regression model, and variance analysis between respondents\u0026apos; locations (rural, urban, and semi-urban) and their opinion regarding the need for plastic waste segregation from other wastes. The Pearson correlation coefficient of -0.128 indicates a weak negative relationship between location and the realization of the need for plastic waste segregation. However, this correlation is not statistically significant at the 0.05 significance level (p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.106). The regression model\u0026apos;s overall fit is weak, as reflected in an R-square of 0.016, suggesting that only a small proportion of the variability in the need for plastic waste segregation can be explained by location. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) results indicates that the regression model is not statistically significant (p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.212), implying that the location variable does not significantly contribute to explaining the variation in respondents\u0026apos; opinions about the need for plastic waste segregation. Examining the coefficients, the constant value of 1.985 represents the estimated opinion level for respondents in the reference category (not specified). The coefficient for location is -0.165, indicating a decrease in the opinion about the need for plastic waste segregation for respondents in rural, urban, or semi-urban locations. The 95% confidence interval for the location coefficient spans from \u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;0.425 to 0.095, indicating that the effect of location on the need for plastic waste segregation is not precisely estimated. The collinearity statistics show no multicollinearity issues, with a tolerance value of 1.000.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn essence, this discussion elucidates the intricate web of challenges and opportunities in Bangladesh\u0026apos;s plastic consumption landscape. As the nation grapples with the repercussions of plastic pollution, a nuanced understanding of regional dynamics, global policies, stakeholder perceptions, and household behaviors becomes imperative. The path forward involves collaborative efforts, informed decision-making, and a commitment to sustainable practices to address the multifaceted challenges posed by plastic consumption and forge a resilient and eco-friendly future.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComparative analysis of policies and initiative taken against polyethene bag ban among eleven countries in the world\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe implementation of a ban on polythene bags in Bangladesh occurred in 2002 due to the revision of the Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act (Rahman, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; Hasan et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e; Diana et al., 2023). Although the initial response from the general public was favourable, many obstacles began to arise as time went on. The effectiveness of the prohibition was impeded by inadequate enforcement and management of recycling and disposal processes, increasing the use of polymer bags. In 2002, Ireland implemented a prohibition that included a \u0026quot;bag tax\u0026quot; strategy, which entailed imposing a fee on the retail sale of polyethene bags (Nadiruzzaman et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Wang et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; Cowan et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Table \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e. shows the global plastic bag policy interventions and their impact Implementing a polyethene bag ban in Bangladesh in 2002 faced significant challenges due to various economic and political barriers (Rahman, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; Hasan et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). Economic barriers included the high cost of alternative bags compared to polyethene, a lack of financial support for developing alternatives, consumer preference for cheaper options, and fear of job losses in the polythene industry (Diana et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Political barriers encompassed weak enforcement of existing regulations, lack of political will to implement stricter measures, and the implied influence of the plastics industry lobby. In contrast, successful case studies from other countries highlight effective strategies. Ireland\u0026apos;s \u0026quot;bag tax\u0026quot; implementation in 2002 significantly reduced polythene bag use. Tanzania\u0026apos;s 2005 ban on thin plastic bags, coupled with continuous monitoring, proved effective. Kenya\u0026apos;s strict ban with penalties in 2017 led to a decrease in single-use plastics (Cowan et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Unsuccessful cases like India\u0026apos;s 2003 ban on thin plastic bags and China\u0026apos;s 2008 ban faced challenges due to poor waste management, enforcement issues, and illegal production. These examples underscore the importance of addressing enforcement challenges and providing viable alternatives to ensure the success of such bans (Muposhi et al., 2022). Also, customers were required to remit a tax concerning this matter. This method led to a substantial decline in the utilization of Polyethene bags, as shown by a drop of over 90% within the first year. The efficacy of the tax may be attributed to its extensive scope, including all stages of production and consumer use, and its progressive tax rates that rise by consumption levels (Wang et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). In 2003, India implemented a rule that specifically targeted the prohibition of polyethene bags with a thickness of less than 20 \u0026micro;m. Nevertheless, the ban\u0026apos;s effect has been limited, given that India remains a substantial contributor to the worldwide creation of plastic garbage (Perera et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Several factors, including irresponsible individual conduct, inadequate waste management systems, and insufficient enforcement measures, have impeded the efficacy of the prohibition. The restriction implemented by Tanzania in 2005 was explicitly aimed at prohibiting the use of bags that had a thickness below 100 \u0026micro;m (Cowan et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Subsequently, the prohibition was expanded to include bags with a thickness below 30 \u0026micro;m. Continuous monitoring was critical in achieving the successful outcome of the ban, as it successfully regulated the manufacturing and utilization of single-use Polyethene bags (SUP) (Wang et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; Muposhi et al., 2022). In 2007, the government of Kenya implemented a ban on single-use plastic (SUP) bags with a thickness of less than 30 \u0026micro;m (Aryal et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Subsequently, in 2017, the country further reinforced this prohibition by imposing stricter measures, including the threat of jail and monetary penalties for anybody found using such bags (Banu, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Van et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Implementing a more stringent strategy resulted in a notable decrease in the use and production of single-use plastics (SUPs), primarily due to the imposition of legal consequences and ongoing surveillance measures. In 2007, Canada implemented a policy that included the prohibition of Polyethylene bags with a thickness of less than 30 \u0026micro;m, with the implementation of a financial charge for bags with greater thickness (Wang et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; Ogutu, 2023). Implementing the ban resulted in a notable decrease in the use of single-use plastic (SUP) items while simultaneously promoting the adoption of reusable bags (Ogutu, 2023). This shift in behaviour may be attributed to the general public\u0026apos;s inclination to address the issue of plastic pollution. The imposition of a prohibition by China in 2008, which placed restrictions on the use of SUP bags with a thickness of less than 25 \u0026micro;m, resulted in an initial decrease in consumption (Pathak, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e; Wagner, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNevertheless, the persistence of SUP bags in the nation might be attributed to challenges associated with monitoring and the illicit fabrication of these bags (Debnath et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). In 2014, the implementation of a tariff on Polyethylene bags in the United States led to a notable decrease in their use, as shown by a survey. This methodology emphasizes examining customer behaviour and has significantly reduced the use of Polyethene bags. In 2011, Wales introduced a fee on Polyethene bags, resulting in a significant decrease of 96% in the consumption of Single-Use Plastics (SUP) (Cowan et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). The endeavour\u0026apos;s success may be attributed to the beneficial behavioural influence exerted by the levy. The European Union effectively mitigated the formation and production of single-use plastic (SUP) garbage by enacting a legislative measure 2015 (Nielson et al., 2020). This measure expanded the scope of responsibility to include manufacturers and included a range of activities, such as installing clean drinking water fountains. Israel\u0026apos;s imposition of a fee on SUP bags in 2016 garnered significant popular support and led to a discernible decrease in the use of SUPs. The implementation of the legislation has catalyzed individuals to transition towards the use of ecologically sustainable reusable bags (Cowan et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Although Bangladesh took prompt action in implementing its ban, the effectiveness of this measure was hindered by economic obstacles arising from inadequate enforcement and a dearth of appropriate recycling management. In order to enhance its environmental sustainability, Bangladesh has the potential to allocate resources towards strengthening enforcement mechanisms, advocating for the adoption of cost-effective alternatives, and implementing efficient recycling initiatives. The prohibition implemented in Ireland was effectively enforced by implementing a \u0026quot;bag tax\u0026quot; system, which included the imposition of charges on manufacturers and users. Bangladesh may contemplate adopting a similar strategy to promote economic sustainability and discourage using polyethene bags. The prohibition imposed by India has encountered economic obstacles, such as irresponsible individual conduct, inadequate waste management practices, and insufficient enforcement measures. In order to better its overall performance, India should prioritize reinforcing its waste management infrastructure and intensify its enforcement efforts. The success of Tanzania may be ascribed to the ongoing process of monitoring (Cowan et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). It is recommended that Bangladesh allocate resources towards establishing and enhancing monitoring and enforcement systems to implement the prohibition effectively. The implementation of strict penalties, including jail and fines, by the Kenyan government for the use of single-use plastic (SUP) bags with a thickness below 30 \u0026micro;m has resulted in positive outcomes. Bangladesh may contemplate the adoption of more stringent sanctions and the implementation of continuous monitoring mechanisms as a means to discourage the use of polyethene bags. Canada\u0026apos;s approach is indicative of the significance placed on public sentiment. The need to successfully limit plastic pollution in Bangladesh is to promote a favourable public disposition towards this cause. China has a set of obstacles that arise from difficulties in monitoring and addressing concerns related to unlawful manufacturing. In order to guarantee the efficacy of the prohibition, Bangladesh has the potential to enhance its enforcement and monitoring efforts. The United States\u0026apos; emphasis on consumer behaviour and implementation of a modest tax had positive outcomes. Bangladesh has the potential to adopt comparable tactics that prioritize the significance of consumer behaviour in mitigating the use of polyethene bags. The success of Wales may be attributed to the favourable influence on behaviour resulting from the implementation of the levy. Bangladesh has the potential to foster such constructive behavioural changes among its populace using awareness campaigns. The European Union\u0026apos;s (EU) success may be attributed to its expanded accountability towards producers and the implementation of diverse programs. Bangladesh has the potential to derive valuable insights from these programs and contemplate the adoption of comparable measures.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 10\u003c/strong\u003e. Global plastic policy interventions and its impact\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tabe\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSl. no\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCountry\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYear of ban\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePolicy framework and products ban\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eImpact of ban\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eReason\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBangladesh\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2002\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act underwent revision in the year 2002. According to Rule 6ka of Clause-5 under Section-9, a prohibition has been implemented regarding the manufacturing and use of thin SUP (polythene shopping) bags. Penalties and punishments include the imposition of incarceration and monetary sanctions.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe first response from the general public was favorable. The increase in the use of polymer bags may be attributed to the reluctance of law enforcement agencies and the limited accessibility of affordable alternatives.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe absence of consistent enforcement and effective management of the disposal of waste materials in recycling facilities, incinerators, and the removal of such waste from landfills.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIreland\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2002\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe implementation of a \u0026quot;bag tax\u0026quot; included the introduction of a charge on the sale of polyethylene bags at shops, with customers being responsible for paying the associated tax. The levy was only imposed on SUP bags, whereas reusable bags were granted exemption from the taxation.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe implementation of a charge resulted in a decrease of over 90% in the use of polyethylene bags during the first year.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA tax was imposed on the manufacturing of SUP bags, which was then passed on to customers who used them. Additionally, the tax rate was adjusted proportionally to reflect the rise in usage.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIndia\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2003\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn 2003, a legislative measure was enacted to prohibit the use of bags with a thickness of less than 20 \u0026micro;m. Subsequently, in 2019, the Ministry of Environment and Forests issued new regulations pertaining to the management and processing of plastic waste, superseding the previous laws. As part of these regulations, a partial ban on single-use plastic (SUP) goods was implemented.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDespite the restriction, India remains a significant contributor to the global waste generation.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe presence of irresponsible individual behavior, inadequate waste management systems, and insufficient enforcement of the prohibition are contributing factors to the issue at hand.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTanzania\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2005\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA ban was first implemented on bags with a thickness below 100 \u0026micro;m, which was subsequently extended to include bags with a thickness below 30 \u0026micro;m.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA ban has been determined to be an effective measure in regulating the use and production of single-use plastics (SUP).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe effectiveness is enhanced by the use of continuous monitoring.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCanada\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2007 and 2011\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn 2007, a prohibition was enacted on Polyethene bags with a thickness of less than 30 \u0026micro;m, accompanied by the implementation of a financial charge on bags over 30 \u0026micro;m in thickness, with the imposition of a continued financial charge for bags of even greater thickness.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe use of certain measures has shown to be very effective in mitigating the increasing number of single-use plastics (SUP) and promoting the utilization of reusable bags.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe attitudes of individuals towards the mitigation of plastic pollution have a significant role in the reduction of single-use plastics (SUP).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKenya\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2007\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn 2007, Kenya implemented a ban on single-use plastic (SUP) bags with a thickness below 30 \u0026micro;m, while also introducing a fee on SUP bags above 30 \u0026micro;m in thickness. In response to the perceived ineffectiveness of the ban and fee implemented in 2017, Kenya has enacted one of the most stringent prohibitions on Single-Use Plastics (SUP). This measure entails the imposition of both jail and fines for anybody found in violation of the regulation, specifically targeting the use of SUP bags with a thickness below 30 \u0026micro;m.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffectively reduced consumption and production of SUP\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eImprisonment, financial penalties, and ongoing surveillance was significant.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eChina\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2008\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLegislation has been enacted by The General Office of the State Council to enforce a prohibition on the provision of free single-use plastic (SUP) bags that have a thickness of less than 25 \u0026micro;m in shops, sales outlets, and supermarkets. Additionally, a charge has been introduced for bags that exceed 25 \u0026micro;m in thickness. However, certain exemptions apply in cases where these SUP bags are necessary for maintaining hygiene standards, such as the storage and handling of fresh food.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt first, there was a decrease in the use of single-use plastics (SUP), but subsequently, an upward trend in their usage became evident.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe prevalent presence of SUP bags in China may be attributed to a combination of inadequate supervision and illicit manufacturing practices.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eUSA\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2007\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA levy of USD 0.05 has been charged on purchasers of polyethylene bags.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBased on a survey done in 2014, there was a decrease in the average weekly use of Polyethylene bags from 10 to 4.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWales\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2011\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe proposed legislation aims to impose a tariff on polyethylene bags.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThere was a significant decrease of 96% in the occurrence of single-use plastics (SUP) subsequent to the implementation of the charge.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe study observed a favorable behavioral spillover effect among individuals in their attitudes and behaviors towards the tax, specifically in relation to the reduction in the use of single-use plastics (SUP).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEuropean Union\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2015\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA legislative measure was enacted wherein an amendment was made to Directive 94/62/EC, specifically targeting single-use Polyethylene bags.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe implementation of the ban has shown efficacy in mitigating the generation and manufacturing of single-use plastic (SUP) trash.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe expansion of legal obligations to include producers in the task of waste removal, as well as the implementation of programs such as the installation of complimentary clean drinking water fountains.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIsrael\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2016\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIntroduce a levy on SUP bags\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe implementation of the ban resulted in a significant decrease in the use of single-use plastics (SUP), with over 70% of the general population expressing their support for this measure.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOne contributing factor to the increased use of ecologically friendly reusable bags was the implementation of bag charges and corresponding legislation.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe endorsement of a tax by the Israeli government and the underlying rationale for using reusable bags were influential factors. Bangladesh has the potential to foster public endorsement and incentivize the adoption of ecologically sustainable solutions. The study\u0026apos;s findings have broader implications for environmental policy and sustainable development. The economic barriers highlight the importance of considering affordability and providing financial incentives for adopting eco-friendly alternatives. The political barriers underscore the need for strong governance, effective enforcement, and stakeholder collaboration. The case studies offer valuable lessons for policymakers in other countries grappling with plastic pollution. Successful cases like Ireland and Tanzania demonstrate the effectiveness of combining regulations with economic incentives and monitoring. Unsuccessful cases like Bangladesh and India emphasize the importance of addressing enforcement challenges and providing viable alternatives. Overall, this research contributes to the growing knowledge of plastic pollution and its management. The findings can inform policy interventions, guide educational campaigns, and promote sustainable practices in Bangladesh and beyond. As Bangladesh grapples with the environmental and health repercussions of plastic consumption, the insights from this study provide a robust foundation for informed decision-making, emphasizing the urgency of collaborative efforts between government bodies, industries, and civil society. The path forward necessitates a harmonized approach, integrating policy reforms, awareness campaigns, and sustainable practices to navigate the challenges posed by plastic pollution and forge a more environmentally resilient future.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study aimed to identify the political and economic barriers to implementing Bangladesh's Plastic Ban Law in 2002. The findings of this study indicated that the use of polythene bags could be attributed to the limited availability of alternative materials and their widespread accessibility. The elevated cost of other options is also a contributing factor. The affordability and widespread accessibility of polyethene bags contribute to their popularity. The implementation of a substantial tax on single-use plastic (SUP) bags from the outset of manufacturing, along with the promotion of innovative strategies and investments in the development of polyethene alternatives, as well as efforts to induce changes in consumer behaviour, may lead to the eventual success of a ban on polyethene bags. Individuals bringing their polythene bags is a widely used method for minimizing the utilization of polythene materials. The objective is to enhance end-user knowledge of the negative consequences of plastic use via media advertisements and initiatives conducted by governmental and non-governmental organizations. A reward-based plastic collection program is proposed to incentivize individuals to avoid indiscriminately disposing of plastic garbage in various locations. The proposed incentives include preferential tax treatments, simplified access to bank loans, and duty-free imports of equipment and machinery for industries and enterprises involved in creating biodegradable alternatives to plastics. In an integrated fashion, these findings culminate in recommendations for strengthening regional waste management, aligning local policies with global initiatives, tailoring educational programs based on demographic insights, and implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) more rigorously.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":" \u003ch2\u003eConflict of Interest\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest to disclose.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eEthical Approval\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e The Ethical Review Board of the Center for Higher Studies and Research approved this study after inspection according to their protocol.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFunding\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study was self-funded.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAhmed SJ, Nahiduzzaman KM, Rahaman KR (2002) Public environmental awareness regarding the use of polythene bags: before and after effects of the ban over their use \u0026amp; production. 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Int J Environ Res Public Health 18(20):10718\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Plastic policy, ban, implementation, political barriers, economic barriers","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6049539/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6049539/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eIn 2002, Bangladesh became the first country to implement a ban on the use of polyethene bags. However, after 20 years, the ban has not been implemented. Hence, this study investigates the political and economic barriers to implementing the polyethene bag ban in Bangladesh. Moreover, this study employed a multi-faceted methodology to investigate plastic pollution and management strategies comprehensively. This study collected secondary data through a comprehensive review of several fundamental documents, including national policies and international frameworks. Moreover, face-to-face key informant interviews and an online survey captured diverse perspectives. This study found that the low pricing of polythene bags, the lack of alternatives to polythene bags, the high price of alternatives, and the lack of financial and infrastructural support for eco-friendly alternatives are the main economic barriers to polyethene bag bans. Notably, 91 participants (57.90%) think that the lack of cheaper alternatives, such as polyethene bags, is the main barrier to implementing the ban in Bangladesh. The results also indicated that cheaper prices (22%), easy availability (36%), and high prices of alternatives (27%) were the main reasons for participants preferring polyethene bags. The finding of this study is that a cheaper and more environmentally friendly alternative is needed in our country to implement the ban successfully. Additionally, the public and private sectors should come forward to invest in the alternative bag sector to make it cheaper for consumers. The government's initiatives, while commendable, necessitate stringent enforcement, amendments for specificity, and expansion beyond Dhaka to ensure holistic efficacy. The central government's role in influencing plastic waste management through taxation and incentives is pivotal, requiring the alignment of NGOs and civil society to foster public awareness and collaboration. This comprehensive examination serves as a foundation for informed policymaking and sustainable interventions to address Bangladesh's pressing challenges with plastic waste.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Plastic Pollution, Political Economy, and Policy Failure: Investigating the Implementation Barriers of Section 6A in the Bangladesh Environmental Conservation Act, 1995","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-02-27 06:32:39","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6049539/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"3843c086-f43d-4536-9281-9360d160b7d7","owner":[],"postedDate":"February 27th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[{"id":44460967,"name":"Environmental Policy"},{"id":44460968,"name":"Environmental Economics"},{"id":44460969,"name":"Environmental Law"},{"id":44460970,"name":"Management"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-02-27T06:32:40+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-02-27 06:32:39","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-6049539","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-6049539","identity":"rs-6049539","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}