Assignment of Business Law : Environment pollution caused by Plastic, a study on abusing of plastic...

ASSIGNMENT ON ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION BY PLASTIC

3/24/2014

A study on abusing of plastic materials in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh People have knowledge regarding environmental pollution caused by plastic, but most of them are not bothering because of social practice, lacking of systems and poor respect for the law.

Assignment on Environmental pollution by Plastic

Assignment on Environment pollution by Plastic

Course Code

BUS 361

Course Name: Business Law and Legal Environment

Section: 01

Semester: Spring 2014

Submitted to

Ms. Fahmida Hasan

Senior Lecturer

East West University

Barrister -at –law (Lincoln’s Inn, UK)

PGDLP: Manchester Metropolitan University, UK

LLB. (Hons.): The University of Reading, UK

Submitted by ID NO

1. Abdulla Md. Masum Chowdhury 2008-3-13-0282. Md. Miraj Rahman 2009-1-10-2733. Jahanara Soliman 2010-2-13-0034. Md. Mostafizur Rahman 2010-3-10-106

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Transmittal Letter24th March, 2014

ToMs. Fahmida HasanSenior Lecturer Department of Business Administration,East West University

Subject: Submission of report on “Environmental pollution by plastic”

Dear MadamYou have assigned our group to prepare an assignment of BUS 361 on “Environment pollution by plastic”. This report consists of the overview of environmental pollution caused by plastic in Bangladesh; through the process of making this report we came to learn about people awareness and activities to prevent pollution by plastic.We are really optimistic that our report will satisfy the requirements that were suggested by you under the course BUS 361.

Sincerely Yours,Group # 03

1. Abdulla Md. Masum Chowdhury 2008-3-13-0282. Md. Miraj Rahman 2009-1-10-2733. Sharmin sultana Chandni 2010-1-10-2814. Md. Mostafizur Rahman 2010-3-10-106

Section: 01Course No: BUS 361Course Name: Business Law and Legal EnvironmentSemester: Spring 2014Department of Business AdministrationEast West University

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:

At the very beginning, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to almighty Allah for giving us

the strength & the composure to complete this report. Words actually will never be enough to express

how grateful we are, but never the less we shall try our level best to express our gratefulness toward

some people.

This assignment might never have been completed without the assistance of many articles, websites

and primary and secondary data that hence our knowledge on pollution intentionally and

unintentionally created by us. Thanks to people who are participated in our survey questionnaire by

giving their valuable time and participation.

We would like to express my special gratitude to our honorable faculty MS. Fahmida Hasan for her

supervision, co-operation and advices. We will always be indebted to her for the valuable

suggestions and the time that she had spent for guiding us throughout this assignment.

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TABLE OF CONTENT:

Chapter 1 | Introduction

1.1 Introduction 7

1.2 Background of the study 7

1.3 Objectives of the study 8

1.4 Methodology of the study 8

1.5 Limitations of this study 9

1.6 Organization of this Assignment 9

Chapter 2 | Pollution and its kinds

2.1 Pollution 10

2.2 Different kind of pollution caused by plastic 11

2.2.1 Land pollution and consequences 12-13

2.2.2 Air Pollution and consequences 13-14

2.2.3 Water pollution and consequences 15-16

2.3 Different types of plastic are liable to create pollution 16-19

Chapter 3

3.1 How animals are being affected by the environment pollution 20

3.2 Way to reduce pollution and our responsibilities: 21

3.2.1 Conversion action 21

3.2.2 What to do 21

3.3 Government and NGO intervention 22-23

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3.4 Industries responsibilities regarding pollution caused by plastic 23-24

Chapter 4

4.1 Impact on biodiversity 25-28

Chapter 5

5.1 Case study of Buriganga river- biologically dead 28-29

Chapter 6

Findings and analysis 30- 32

Chapter 7

7.1 Recommendation 33

7.2 Conclusion 34

Bibliography 35-36

Appendix

Appendix 01 37-40

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ABSTRACT:

This study is intended to assess the different pollution caused by plastic. Pollution is trash that is in a

place it should not be in. Some pollution is caused by an individual, industrials or a company. For

example one may throw a candy wrapped on the ground which is not appropriate area to throw it.

Some pollution is the result of a group of individuals making poor decisions such as factory waste

being dumped into a river. In many cases human sewerage system linked up with a river so that

water get damages. The first one is very easy to recover by last two types of pollution is very costly

and takes an even greater number of individuals to correct. There are main three forms of pollution:

land, air and water. All of these are very important part of an environment. So the form of

environmental pollutions could be count very hardly. In our research we strive to focus

environmental pollution which is caused by only plastic not others. We found that in our country

both educated, uneducated rich or poor everybody creates pollution because of social practice, poor

systems and not respecting for the law.

KEYWORDS:

Plastic, The environmental (pollution control) act 1995, Awareness, Government and NGO

intervention, biodiversity, case study, findings and analysis

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CHAPTER ONE:

1.1 Origin of the report

Human activities are responsible for a major decline of the world’s biological diversity, and the

problem is so critical. In our country most of the consumer goods are wrapped by the polythene

outfits. After using people throw this polythene here and there. Polythene and plastic materials are

those elements which never digest in every stage of environmental part. We covered people

awareness, solution to prevent pollution caused by plastic.

This study has been conducted for the academic purpose of Legal environment of business (BUS-

361) under the BBA program and gained an insight about the different pollution created through

plastic, way to overcome this problems and legal issues against pollution caused by plastic.

1.2 Background of the study

Plastics are synthetic organic polymers, and though they have only existed for just over a century.

The versatility of these materials has lead to a great increase in their use over the past three decades.

Easy to produce, low cost, easy to carry and comfort are the main reason to increase the usage rate of

polythene. In our country usage rate of polythene, plastic materials are high compare to others. So

that abusing rate of polythene are also high because of poverty, lack of awareness, and social

systems. People have knowledge about pollution, but who cares. We covered all of these issues and

presenting survey data by the different statistical format and there is findings and analysis at the end

of this assignment.

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1.3 Objectives of the study

Based on above discussion the following objectives are set for the study

To provide a brief review pollution caused by plastic and polythene

To examine the people react of countries regarding pollutions.

To highlight some assumptions and findings based on people responses.

1.4 Methodology of the study

The study was conducted mainly based on secondary information although some information on

relating to entrepreneurs has been conducted primarily. The sources of data include Different

Research Paper regarding environmental pollution and cases in Bangladesh prospective. To carry out

the study both primary and secondary data were used. These are given bellows:

Primary Sources Secondary sources

Face to Face conversation with

more than 85 people.

Internal Sources: none

External Sources:

Different articles, research about Pollution

Websites, journal Search in Google.

Figure 01: Methodology of the report

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1.5 Limitations of the study

Since this research is only for academic purpose, there were some limitations in this study. These are

mentioned below.

Discussion about the, pollution caused by plastic is a vast area where only some selected

areas are covered in this paper.

The study is based on secondary data some cases primary data are collected but this data

collection is not sufficient enough to complete this assignment.

Time was enough but it was not possible to give full concentration in this research regard due

to continuous pressure from other courses.

We have conducted our survey where all of them are stayed in Metropolitan areas and well

educated in context our country. But we did not go to the rural area as well as uneducated

people. People who are not educated and people who are living rural areas also polluted

environment.

1.6 Organization of the report

This paper is divided into seven chapters. The first chapter is the introduction of the report. The

second chapter focuses on the kinds of plastic and different ways of pollution caused by plastic. The

third chapter explains how to reduce pollutions and responsibilities to the different social groups.

The fourth chapter explains biodiversity, fifth chapter discuss a case of Buriganga River, and sixth

chapters include some finding and analysis. The last chapter contains the concluding remarks of the

report and in the end there are some appendixes to make this report valuable and trust worthy.

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CHAPTER TWO:

2.1 Pollution:

The term “pollution” can be described from different angles. In the simplistic manner the pollution

can be described as the harmful effects of something on the particular or whole aspects of

environment. According to Section 2(b) of The Environment (pollution control) Act, 1995

"pollution" means such contamination, or alteration of the physical, chemical or biological properties

of any air, water or soil, including change in temperature, taste, odor, consistency or any other

characteristics of air, water or soil or such discharge of any liquid, gaseous, solid, radioactive or

other substance into air, water, soil or any other constituents of the environment as will render such

air, water or soil harmful, injurious or detrimental to public health or to domestic, commercial,

industrial, agricultural, recreational or other uses, or to air, water, soil, wild stock, wild animals, bird,

fish, plants or other forms of life.

Pollution can be different types. The major pollutions among all the pollutions are land, water and air

pollution.

According to Section 2(d) of The Environment (pollution control) Act, 1995 "environment"

means air, water, soil and physical properties and the inter-relationship which exists among and

between them and human beings, other living beings, plants and micro organisms.

According to Section 2(e) of The Environment (pollution control) Act, 1995 "environmental

pollutant" means any solid, liquid or gaseous substance likely to be, or tending to be, injurious to

environment and shall also include heat, noise and radiation.

So, I would like to discuss these three major pollutions, the cause of these pollutions by different

types of plastic products and the harmful effects of these pollutions in the environment.

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1. Act No.1 of 1995, “Published in Bangladesh Gazette Extraordinary”

Dated 16th February, 1995

Picture 01: Pollution caused by plastic

2.2 Different kind of Pollution caused by plastic:

At present the pollution caused by various plastic products are very threatening to the environment.

Plastic pollution involves the accumulation of plastic products in the environment that adversely

affects wildlife, wildlife habitat, or humans. Many types and forms of plastic pollution exist. Plastic

pollution can adversely affect lands, waterways and oceans. Plastic reduction efforts have occurred

in some areas in attempts to reduce plastic consumption and promote plastic recycling. The

prominence of plastic pollution is correlated with plastics being inexpensive and durable, which

lends to high levels of plastics used by humans. Though, our country has achieved some milestone in

case of preventing pollution cause by plastics and poly bags by banning polythene and imposing

various rules and regulations to prevent pollution for the corporations.

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2.2.1 Land Pollution caused by plastic:

Land pollution by the plastic products are seen everywhere in the society. This scenario has become

a common phenomenon nowadays with the growth of various kinds of plastic industry as well as

with the growth of the urbanization. Mainly the mega cities of the country are being heavily polluted

by various types of plastics products like: bottles, polythene, plastics packaging, and various kinds of

plastic made household utilities etc. most of the city dwellers are not conscious enough about the

fatal consequences of this pollution to the soil and land of the country. They are hardly concerned

about the consequence and pollution is rampant. Another source of the pollution is the industrial

sectors of the country. Mainly garment industry, food industry, and plastic product making industry

can be largely attributed for the land pollution. Cause in those industries various plastic garbage and

scraps are produced which are dumped in the nearby remote places because; most of these industries

are hardly concerned about the garbage management of their production1.

1Barnes D. K. A. “Accumulation and fragmentation of plastic debris in global environments” Phil. Trans. R. Soc. B 364, 1985–1998

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Picture 02: Land pollution by plastic materials

Consequence of the Land pollution:

The consequences of the pollution cannot be described in word. The major fatal consequences are

enumerated below:

Reduction of soil fertility: Ours is an agricultural country. The whole economy relies on the

agricultural prosperity. But the irony of fate that the scrap plastic segments are reducing the

fertility of the soil being imparted under the soil.

Reduction of nitrogen fixation: We know that the nitrogen is one the major components of

the soil. But the imparted plastics in various layers of the soil hamper the nitrogen fixation.

Clogging of drainage systems: The major problem of the plastic product is the clogging of

the drainage systems in the mega cities mainly in Dhaka. The flow of water and waste

materials are greatly hampered for various types of shredded plastics. So, the drapes are

needed to be cleaned very frequently and we are also being suffered greatly.

Bad smells and release of gases: There are often foul smells and released gases for the

plastics imparted in the soil. These stinks and gases are also injurious to our health.

These are some major consequences of land pollution by plastic.

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2.2.2 Air Pollution caused by plastic:

Air pollution is very common pollution in the nature. Air is polluted by different ways like: smoke

and fumes, industrial rubbish, nuclear reactor, burning mine coal as well as wooden coal for various

purpose etc. but one of the major causes of the pollution is the emerge and growth of the plastic

industry. We are using various plastic products for our daily purpose but we are not concerned about

the proper disposal of the unused plastic product and scrap which pollutes our air heavily. We often

incinerate various plastics and polythene bags for the disposal purpose which creates a lot of

hazardous smoke and fumes which are toxic for the whole ecosystems.

We also throw away plastics in anywhere which release toxic emission because these are made of

fossil fuels like oil and natural gas. Another way of the air pollution is the plastic industry which uses

various chemicals and toxic materials for the production of plastic product. This industry also emits

smoke and fumes in the production process which pollutes the air deadly.

Consequence of the air pollution2:

The major fatal consequences are given below:

Emission of toxic in the air: Most plastic is made from fossil fuels like oil and natural gas,

which release toxic emissions when extracted from the earth. According to Earthworks, an

organization dedicated to protecting communities and the environment from the impacts of

irresponsible mineral and energy development, oil and gas drilling releases a slew of toxic air

contaminants, including benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, xylene, carbon monoxide, hydrogen

sulfide, ozone, sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds.

Global warming: one of the major reasons of the global warming is the production and

emission of the smoke and fumes. We are producing this toxic smoke and fumes burning tons

of plastic scraps.

Respiratory and heart problems: The effects of Air pollution are alarming. They are known

to create several respiratory and heart conditions along with Cancer, among other threats to

the body. Several millions are known to have died due to direct or indirect effects of Air

2 Mato Y: "Plastic resin pellets as a transport medium for toxic chemicals in the environment", "Environmental Science & Technology" 35(2), pages 318-324, 2001

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pollution. Children in areas exposed to air pollutants are said to commonly suffer from

pneumonia and asthma. Hence, the production, incineration and unplanned disposal of the

plastics can be largely attributed for these major losses.

Depletion of Ozone layer: Earth’s ozone layer is depleting due to the presence of

chlorofluorocarbons, hydro chlorofluorocarbons in the atmosphere. As ozone layer will

go thin, it will emit harmful rays back on earth and can cause skin and eye related problems.

UV rays also have the capability to affect crops. These chlorofluorocarbons are produced by

incinerating plastic scrap and product.

2.2.3 Water Pollution caused by plastic:

Water pollution is increasingly caused by plastic particles, including rundles, pre-production micro

plastic resin pellets typically under 5 mm (0.20 in) in diameter found outside of the typical plastic

manufacturing stream and an intermediate good used to produce plastic final products; micro beads

from cosmetics; and the breakdown products of plastic litter3. Plastic particle water pollution is also

referred to as mermaids' tears. In our country also the water is being polluted and the free flow is

being hampered for the mixture of various plastic scraps and shredded portion of plastics. The plastic

product manufacturing industry also disposes various types of scraps and rubbish produced from

plastic product which are dumped in the nearby canals, rivers and in the sea which are deadly for the

whole life system4.

3 Moore, C; S Moore, M Leecaster, S Weisberg "A Comparison of Plastic and Plankton in the North Pacific Central Gyre" (2001) pages 1-17, 2011

4 Derraik, José G.B "The pollution of the marine environment by plastic debris: A review". “Marine Pollution Bulletin” p 44 (9), 2013

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Picture 03: Water pollution caused by plastic

Consequence of the water pollution:

The major deadly consequences are described below:

The injurious health problems: various types of critical diseases are caused by the

contaminated water. As, plastic industries are polluting the water by dumping waste materials

and scraps of plastic production they can be significantly attributed for the ill and injurious

health of the people of the country5.

Aquatic and marine life is threatened: The aquatic and marine life is in a great threat for

the contaminated and toxic water for the disposal of various toxic chemicals of plastics

industry as well as by the general people of the country.

The omission of plastic particle in the ocean water: The plastic debris is just petroleum in

solid form and once this breaks down into small particles it acts just like oil droplets, and it

will become part of the water. In the future, when we list the fundamental properties of ocean

water, we will have to include plastic. So, this will cause to extinct of the marine life.

5 Geof Knight Heinemann Library, “Plastic Pollution”, 2012, 64 pages

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http://www.google.com.bd/search?tbo=p&tbm=bks&q=inauthor:%22Geof+Knight%22&source=gbs_metadata_r&cad=4


Rives and canals of the country are being polluted: Ours is a reverie country. But most of

the rivers and canals are being extremely polluted by dumping of various types of plastic

wastes and debris. Most of the plastic manufacturing companies are also dumping the waste

materials and toxic chemicals produced in the production process rampantly which are the

major threats of the aquatic life. These are also threat of the people of the country because we

depend largely on the fishes and other aquatic resources.

2.3 Different kinds by plastic product are liable to create pollution6:

Pete bottle:

The usage of the generally called plastic bottle is known as “Pete or pet”. Plastic marked with an SPI

code of 1 is made with Polyethylene Terephthalate, which is also known as PETE or PET. Containers

made from this plastic sometimes absorb odors and flavors from foods and drinks that are stored in them.

Items made from this plastic are commonly recycled. PETE plastic is used to make many common

household items like beverage bottles, medicine jars, peanut butter jars, combs, bean bags, and rope.

Recycled PETE is used to make tote bags, carpet, fiberfill material in winter clothing, and more.

6 Jill Toole, “The Different Types of Plastic and Their Number Classifications (Codes)” 17th may 2013.pages 1-11

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Picture 04: Pete bottle

Plastic container:

We use various kinds of plastic containers for various purposes in daily life. Plastic marked with an

SPI code of 2 is made with High-Density Polyethylene, or HDPE. HDPE products are very safe and

they are not known to transmit any chemicals into foods or drinks. HDPE products are commonly

recycled. Items made from this plastic include containers for milk, motor oil, shampoos and

conditioners, soap bottles, detergents, and bleaches. Many personalized toys are made from this

plastic as well.

But it is never safe to reuse an HDPE bottle as a food or drink container if it didn’t originally contain

food or drink. Recycled HDPE is used to make plastic crates, plastic lumber, fencing, and more.

Picture 05: Plastic container

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PVC Pipes7:

We use PVC pipes normally for the supply systems of the water and sewerage. Plastic labeled with

an SPI code of 3 is made with Polyvinyl Chloride, or PVC. PVC is not often recycled and it can be

harmful if ingested. PVC is used for all kinds of pipes and tiles, but it is most commonly found in

plumbing pipes. This kind of plastic should not come in contact with food items. Recycled PVC is

used to make flooring, mobile home skirting and more.

Picture 06: PVC pipes

Polypropylene plastic8:

This is very useful plastic which is commonly used for various purposes. Plastic marked with an SPI

code of 5 is made with Polypropylene, or PP. PP is not commonly recycled, but it is accepted in

many areas. This type of plastic is strong and can usually withstand higher temperatures. Among

many other products, it is used to make plastic diapers, Tupperware, margarine containers, yogurt

boxes, syrup bottles, prescription bottles, and some stadium cups. Plastic bottle caps are often made

from PP as well. Recycled PP is used to make ice scrapers, rakes, battery cables, and more.

Miscellaneous kinds of plastics:

7 Jill Tooley, “The Different Types of Plastic and Their Number Classifications (Codes)” 17th may 2013. pages 1-11

8 Article By Jill Tooley, “The Different Types of Plastic and Their Number Classifications (Codes)” 17th may 2013. pages 1-11

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There is a type of plastics which is a particular type of plastic. It is also used for various types of

daily purposes. The SPI code of 7 is used to designate miscellaneous types of plastic that are not

defined by the other six codes. Polycarbonate and Polylactide are included in this category. These

types of plastics are difficult to recycle. Polycarbonate, or PC, is used in baby bottles, large water

bottles (multiple-gallon capacity), compact discs, and medical storage containers. Recycled plastics

in this category are used to make plastic lumber, among other products.

Picture 07: Miscellaneous kinds of plastic

CHAPTER THREE:

3.1 How animals are being affected by the environment pollution

By discarding plastic thoughtlessly, especially fishing gear and packaging, people are accidentally

causing the deaths of millions of mammals, birds, reptiles and fish every year. Since the development

of plastic earlier this century, it has become a popular material used in a wide variety of ways. Today

plastic is used to make, or wrap around, many of the items we buy or use. The problem comes when

we no longer want these items and how we dispose of them, particularly the throwaway plastic

material used in wrapping or packaging. Plastics are used because they are easy and cheap to make

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and they can last a long time. Unfortunately these same useful qualities can make plastic a huge

pollution problem. The cheapness means plastic gets discarded easily and its long life means it

survives in the environment for long periods where it can do great harm. Because plastic does not

decompose, and requires high energy ultra-violet light to break down, the amount of plastic waste in

our oceans is steadily increasing.

The plastic rubbish found on beaches near urban areas tends to originate from use on land, such as

packaging material used to wrap around other goods. On remote rural beaches the rubbish tends to

have come from ships, such as fishing equipment used in the fishing industry. This plastic can affect

marine wildlife in two important ways: by entangling creatures, and by being eaten.

Turtles: Turtles are particularly badly affected by plastic pollution, and all seven of the world's

turtle species are already either endangered or threatened for a number of reasons. Turtles get

entangled in fishing nets, and many sea turtles have been found dead with plastic bags in their

stomachs. It is believed they mistake these floating semi-transparent bags for jellyfish and eat them.

The turtles die from choking or from being unable to eat.

Marine Mammals: There is great concern about the effect of plastic rubbish on marine

mammals in particular, because many of these creatures are already under threat for a variety of

other reasons e.g. whale populations have been decimated by uncontrolled hunting. A recent US

report concluded that

100000 marine mammals die each year in the world's oceans by eating or becoming entangled in

plastic rubbish, and the position is worsening. When a marine mammal such as a Cape fur seal gets

caught up in a large piece of plastic, it may simply drown, or become exhausted and die of starvation

due to the greater effort needed to swim, or the plastic may kill slowly over a period of months or

years as it bites into the animal causing wounds, loss of blood and/or severing of limbs9.

Marine Birds: World-wide, 75 marine bird species are known to eat plastic articles. In sea,

seabirds are among the worst affected in the world10. Plastics may remain in the stomachs, blocking

digestion and possibly causing starvation. As particular species seem to be badly affected this may be

a threat to whole populations of these birds.

9 Derraik, J. “The pollution of the marine environment by plastic debris”. 2002.

10 Leahy, Stephen. “Drowning in an Ocean of Plastic”. 2004.

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3.2 Way to reduce pollution and our responsibilities:

3.2.1 Conversion action

The problem of plastic pollution is serious and requires further urgent study. Immediate action is also

required such as:

Reduction of the amount of plastic used in packaging which is usually immediately thrown

away. Re-use of plastics should be encouraged.

Plastic wrapping and bags should carry a warning label stating the dangers of plastic

pollution, and shoppers should be encouraged to use their own bags, or recycled paper bags.

3.2.2 What to do:

Buy products with less Plastic packaging and tell store Personnel why you are doing so.

Shoppers should use their own bags or recycled paper bags.

Support recycling schemes and promote support for one in your local area.

Fishermen throughout Bangladesh should not throw away waste line, net or plastic litter - this

causes huge suffering and many deaths.

Practice and promote proper disposal of plastics in your home and at the beach. Always

remember that litter generates litter. Never dispose of plastics in the sewage system.

In the street never throw plastic or other litter

Set an example to others and encourage them to help. Plastics are not themselves a problem.

They are useful and popular materials which can be produced with relatively little damage to

the environment. The problem is the excessive use of plastics in one-off applications together

with careless clearance.

3.3 Government and NGO intervention:

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According to Section 2(f) of The Environment (pollution control) Act, 1995 "Protection of

environment" means the qualitative and quantitative improvement of the different components of the

environment and prevention of the deterioration of qualitative and quantitative standards. Here some

of the responsibilities are given to protect to protect the environmental pollution11.

1) Take Responsibility: Whether you represent yourself, a corporation, or a government, know

how much you are contributing to the problem of plastic pollution.

Conduct a waste audit and share the information.

Set specific goals to reduce or eliminate your waste generation.

2) Start a Reusable Revolution: Marine plastic pollution shows us that we cannot really throw

anything “away”. We have the power and the opportunity to stop this problem at its source by

embracing conspicuous conservation.

We need legislation that uses fees and other controls to restrict the types of plastic packaging

most prevalent in marine debris, especially single-use bags and polystyrene.

Choose re-usable items wherever possible. Support producers of reusable alternatives and

stop using “throw-away” plastics, because there is no “away”.

Commit to buying recycled content plastics. Specifying recycled content in purchases,

whether in government procurement policies or in purchases made by businesses and

individuals, helps ensure markets for recovered plastics, and reduces the need to source virgin

materials to make new products. And, of course, always recycle.

3) Extend Plastic Producers’ Responsibility: With a push from an Extended Producer

Responsibility framework, producers will find innovative ways to design better and less packaging

that can be more fully recovered and recycled when it has reached the end of its useful life.

11 Act No.1 of 1995, Published in Bangladesh Gazette Extraordinary Dated 16th February, 1995

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This will help shift responsibility to producers for end-of-life management of plastic

packaging.

Producer responsibility allows for market innovation and flexibility – producers can get

creative in finding ways to meet standards.

4) Stop Ghost Fishing: Innovation and public-private partnerships are needed to stop the vast

quantity of lost or “derelict” fishing gear that destroys fragile habitat and catches fish and mammals

for decades after it is lost.

New technology such as beacons, or identifiable characteristics like knots, can help track and

recover lost gear. Tracking capability can also help enforce anti-dumping restrictions.

Industry partnerships, bonds, or gear registration can create incentives for return of gear back

to port. Funds gathered from these sources can fund essential port reception facilities to

collect gear that is properly returned to port.

3.4 Industries responsibilities regarding pollution created by plastic:

Every action or inaction of any person in regard to her or his surroundings has an effect- be it good,

neutral or bad- on the environment. Nature already provides for our needs. Whatever we do to it gets

back to us. If we are friends of the earth, it will also be friendly to us. By becoming aware and doing

the right action, we choose to be part of the solution.

Initiatives come to mind now to serve as reminders including the followings:

Use eco-friendly or biodegradable materials instead of plastic which are made up of highly

toxic substances injurious to your health.

Create your green space. Value your garden. Plant more trees and put indoor plants in your

homes. They clean the air, provide oxygen and beautify your surroundings. Thus, care for

them and by protecting them, especially the big trees around and in the forest, you protect

yourself and your family, too.

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Have a proper waste disposal system especially for toxic wastes

Never throw, run or drain or dispose into the water, air, or land any substance in solid, liquid

or gaseous form that shall cause pollution.

Do not cause loud noises and unwanted sounds to avoid noise pollution.

Do not litter in public places. Anti-litter campaigns can educate the populace.

Industries should use fuel with lower sulfur content.

Industries should monitor their air emissions regularly and take measures to ensure

compliance with the prescribed emission standards.

Industries should strictly follow applicable government regulations on pollution control.

Companies must help fight against pollution by doing the following steps:

1) Plant more trees

2) Don't waste water

3) Use cloth bag and don't burn plastic

4) Organize voluntaries campaigns like cleaning up program, seminar, and door to door campaign

5) Using recycling plastic products

CHAPTER FOUR:

4.1 Impact on Biodiversity:

Environment pollution by plastic has a huge negative impact on biodiversity. Every once in a while

the government passes out an order banning shop keepers from providing plastic bags to customers

for carrying their purchases, with little lasting effect. Plastic bags are very popular with both retailers

as well as consumers because they are cheap, strong, lightweight, functional, as well as a hygienic

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means of carrying food as well as other goods. Even though they are one of the modern conveniences

that we seem to be unable to do without, they are responsible for causing pollution, killing wildlife,

and using up the precious resources of the earth.

About a hundred million plastic bags and other plastics are used every year in the Bangladesh

alone12. And then, when one considers the huge economies and populations of India, China, Europe,

and other parts of the world, the numbers can be staggering. The problem is further exacerbated by

the developed countries shipping off their plastic waste to developing countries like India. There are

many harmful effects of plastics.

Picture 08: In every stage of plastic life cycle has a negative impact on biodiversity.

Impact on human life13:

Toxic chemical in plastic causes neurological problem, cancer, birth defects, hormonal

changes, gastric ulcer, thyroid problem and cardiovascular diseases.

12 Rita Putatunda, “Environmental Pollution”: The Harmful Effects of Plastic on biodiversity, December 14, 201113 Article of ”Healthy Building Network's Guide to Plastic Lumber ” pages (44) (2005),“Creating Safe and Healthy Spaces: Selecting Materials that Support Healing “ p 1-7 (2006),“Center for Health, Environment and Justice's PVC - Bad News Comes in 3s “(2004)

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The endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in plastic have been contributing to obesity and

diabetes.

The plastic bottles may leach cancer causing chemicals such as phthalates and Bis-phenol A.

Bis-phenol A (BPA) a synthetic estrogen can affect the hearts of women and can permanently

damage DNA of mice.

And by water, air, land pollution, plastic affects on human health creating different type of

diseases.

Picture 09: Impact on Biodiversity of plastic

Litter the Landscape

Once they are used, most plastics go into landfill, or rubbish tips. Each year, more and more plastics are ending up littering the environment. Once they become litter, plastics find their way into our waterways, parks, beaches, and street. And, they are burned; they infuse the air with toxic fumes.

Kill Animals14

14

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About 100,000 animals, such as dolphins, turtle’s whales, penguins are killed every year due to these

bags. Many animals ingest plastic bags, mistaking them for food and therefore, die. And worse, the

ingested plastic bag remains intact even after the death and decomposition of the animal. Thus, it lies

around in the landscape where another victim may ingest it15.

Non-biodegradable

One of the worst environmental effects is they are non-biodegradable. The decomposition takes

about 400 years. No one will live so long to witness decomposition of plastic! Thus, save the

environment for the future generation of human as well as animals.

In oceans

Plastic debris can endanger marine life in two major ways; when creatures eat plastic and when they

get entangled in them. The biggest sufferers of this garbage are turtles, and all the various species of

marine turtles are already threatened because of a number of reasons. Millions of turtles have been

found dead with pieces of plastic bags in their stomach. It is assumed that these turtles mistake these

floating plastic bags for jellyfish and consume them. These bags get stuck in their neck or stomach

which leads to suffocation and ultimately causes death. Various plastic pieces floating in the water

are responsible for the death of millions of fish and birds as they mistake these small pieces of plastic

for food’16.

Various fish and birds lose their lives after getting entangled in lost fish nets which are floating all

over the ocean. The sheer volume of plastic in the ocean is shocking and the worst part is people are

still throwing away their plastic waste instead of recycling it.

The problem of plastic pollution in the ocean is very serious and requires attention of all the

countries in the world. People should make sure that they limit the use of plastic bags and items.

Every piece of plastic being made today is going to remain in the environment for a long time unless

someone recycles it. We all should understand the responsibility of cleaning our own planet, before it

becomes a dump.

CHAPTER FIVE:

15 14 Derraik, J. “The pollution of the marine environment by plastic debris” pages 4-16. 2002.

? Leahy, Stephen. “Drowning in an Ocean of Plastic”, P(37) 2004.

16 Rita Putatunda, “Environmental Pollution: The Harmful Effects of Plastic on biodiversity”, December 14, 2011.

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5.1 Case of Buriganga River – biologically dead (Let the dead river flow)

Dhaka is celebrating its 400th anniversary as the capital of Bengal proclaimed by the Mughals in the

early 17th century. It is a strategic decision by the Mughals considering the economic, navigation

and security potentials of the perennial river Buriganga which surrounded parts of Dhaka. Since then

the civilization of Dhaka City has been developed by the bank of the Buriganga River. The history,

livelihood, culture and heritage of Dhaka City have been largely shaped by this small but important

river. Four hundred years later the river continues to play a very important role, since according to

officials an average of 30,000 people use the Sadarghat launch terminal, one of the largest river ports

in the world, for departure and arrival every day. But for hundreds of years the Buriganga has been

continuously abused by unplanned urbanization and unsupervised industrialization. The onslaught of

the resultant pollution has virtually killed the Buriganga.

Pollution of Buriganga River began in the Mughal period, since the sewage of the city used to be

dumped into the river. Professor Muntasir Mamoon, a historian who has been writing books and

articles on Buriganga River and other connecting canals since early 1970s, says, "The historical

documents state that people used to get bad smell one and half kilometers away from Buriganga

River even in the late 19th century. The then British administration showed concern about the river,

since the water level used to decrease to an alarming level during the dry season. Renowned Scottish

town planner Patrick Geddes made a master plan for Dhaka City including the Buriganga River in

1917.

Then the administration also made some plans to save Buriganga from the grasp of ongoing pollution

caused by domestic sewage. However, the pollution of the river was at the tolerable level till

Pakistani period. Personally, I saw boat racing and boat hotels on Buriganga River even in the 1960s.

But after Liberation, everything became Dhaka-centric. And because of encroachment, unplanned

urbanization and establishment of polluting industries in the city, water pollution has taken such a

devastating shape that the river, mother of the civilization, has been killed by the 'civilized' people."

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Picture 09: In the present scenario the river carries only wastewater.

Several studies on the Buriganga River have identified many causes for the river's pollution such as

sedimentation at the upstream, encroachment, and disposal of solid wastes, sewage and industrial

wastes in the river.

Because of the sedimentation on the upstream, the flow of Buriganga-Turag system gets cut off,

especially during the dry season which is why not single drop water flows into the river system at

that time, informs the hydrologists and engineers of Bangladesh Water Development Board

(BWDB). During this period of time the system basically carries sewage and industrial effluents.

And because of high tide a little water comes from downstream.

Encroachment, of course, has always been a big threat to rivers eating away the banks and narrowing

them further and further. Politically backed influential land encroachers have created illegal

structures including houses, bazaars, ghats (port), brickfields etc. on the river that has created

obstacles on the flow of the river. Meanwhile, the dumping of wastes into the river system has

virtually killed it17

CHAPTER SIX (FINDING AND ANALYSIS BY CONDUCTING SURVEY):

17 Kamol, Ershad, “Let the dead river flow” Star weekend magazine .volume 64, issue 64, April 3, 2009

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People perception and acceptability regarding pollution caused by plastic:

The findings and analysis of survey which we have conducted regarding Environmental pollution

caused by plastic depends on the perception, acceptability and responses of people. We have

conducted a survey, where we collected from the eighty seven people responses to fulfill our survey

data and valuable information’s. Where twenty three responses are female and sixty four responses

are male.

Our questionnaire was designed two of the major part which includes some demographic part and

some hypothetical assumptions based on pollution caused by plastic. To get better indication about

people’s perception about pollution caused by plastic we conduct a survey of 14 questions on 87

people. Most of respondent are Undergraduate and graduate so our survey respondent basically very

educated in the context of Bangladesh.

The objective is to find out what are the people awareness, responsibilities and how they keep their

selves against pollution created by plastic.

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Knowledge of people in context of pollution caused by plastic

Comments Number of respondents

Strongly Disagree 3

Disagree 4

Neutral 16

Agree 21

Strongly agree 43


Out of eighty respondents large numbers of people are aware of pollution caused by plastic. All of

them are educated, have sound knowledge how pollution creates by the plastic in different stages in

an environment.

People have knowledge but they create pollution by plastic:

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Ever thrown plastic bottle here and there

CommentsNumber of respondents

Strongly Disagree 15

Disagree 11

Neutral 21

Agree 25

Strongly agree 15


All of we have sound knowledge how our environments can polluted. But we are not worry about

pollution. We know plastic bottle, polythene are very harmful to every stages like water, air, land.

Plastic materials cannot digest in soil and water, if we burn it than it will creates toxic air which is

very harmful to our ozone layer and creates global warming. Because of poor respecting for law and

poor social practices we frequently polluted to our environment.

People have knowledge, have willingness but they need a platform to take some actions to prevent or

reduce pollution which they have created intentionally or unintentionally. If private sectors like

NGO, social groups, different Environmental protected groups or Government takes volunteer

program they will be participated on this program.

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ANALYSIS:

In our survey data the entire sample is highly educated in context of Bangladesh. All of them are

mature on the basis of age limit. From their responses we have learned all have sound knowledge

about pollution caused by plastic. But they are not using dustbin properly at their home and work

place. After using Pete bottles, different consumer goods they frequently thrown these materials here

and there. They have sound knowledge regarding consumers outfits creates pollution in different

stage of environment and they know well how plastic create toxic which creates pollution every

stage of its existence. They expect some volunteer programs should be arranged by the government,

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What are the actions are taken by us to prevent pollution caused by plastic

Cleaning up program 51

Distribution leaflet 15

Rally 17

Seminar 19Door to door awareness program 48


NGO or national and multinational companies and they have willingness to participate like this

program.

CHAPTER SEVEN: (RECOMMENDATION AND CONCLUSION)

7.1 Recommendation:

After conducting survey questionnaire we realize that people is aware, have knowledge regarding

pollution caused by plastic. But because of poor social practices for long period, not respecting to the

law, people are not bothering about the pollution. We all are liable to pollute our different

environmental parts. We are not only creates harm to our lives also destroy ecological system

gradually. To keep our world free from pollution we need to take some initiatives immediately. It

may be organize volunteer program like cleaning program, door to door program, distribution leaflet,

training program etc. Government should established different actionable program like fine,

punishment, or jail and keep continuing. Only then we keep our next generation free from polluted

world.

Protection of Pollution created by plastic:

1. Make people aware about the concept of Reduce, Recycle and Reuse.

2. Reduce the use of plastic and polythene in consumer goods outfits.

3. Avoid buying packages items as they will lead to garbage and end up in landfill site.

4. Ensure that you do not litter on the ground and do proper disposal of garbage.

5. Buy biodegradable products.

6. Do Organic gardening and eat organic food that will be grown without the use of pesticides.

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7.2 Conclusion:

There is no doubt that environment is very important for our existence. We should grow awareness

to keep environment free from pollution. All the recommendation provided above could be a good

attempt to save the environment if we really can implement those. Lower usage rate of polythene,

increasing recycling material can be effective steps initially. If people were more educated about

recycling plastic bags or shops replacing the use of plastic bags with paper bags would benefit the

environment. Every people should need to careful of our environment. Government should make a

strict rule for public so that they never can make roads n environment dirty.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY:

Book:

“Bangladesh Gazette Extraordinary” Dated 16th February, 1995 Act No.1 of 1995 An Act made to

protect the environment, to improve the quality of the environment and to control and abate the

pollution of the environment.

Report:

Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), 2001, Population Census 2001, Preliminary Report,August,

Dhaka.

Articles:

Derraik, José G.B "The pollution of the marine environment by plastic debris”: A review- Marine

Pollution Bulletin 44 (9), (2002).

Mato Y: "Plastic resin pellets as a transport medium for toxic chemicals in the marine environment",

"Environmental Science & Technology" 35(2), pages 318-324, 2001

Moore, C; S Moore, M Leecaster, S Weisberg, "A Comparison of Plastic and Plankton in the North

Pacific Central Gyre", (2001)

Kamol, Ershad, “Let the dead river flow” Published at: Star weekend magazine .volume 64, issue 64,

April 3, 2009

Allsopp, M., Walters, A., Santillo, D. & Johnston, P. (2006) Plastic Debris in the World’s Oceans.

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Munasinghe, M. 1993. “Environmental Issues and Economic Decisions in Developing Countries”

World Development 21(11): 1729-1748

Aliani, S,A Griffa & A. Molcard. (2003). Floating debris in the Ligurian Sea, northwestern

Mediterranean. Marine Pollution Bulletin 46: 1142-1149.

Aloy, A.B., Vallejo, B.M. & Juinio-Meñez, M.A. Increased plastic litter cover affects the foraging

activity of the sandy intertidal gastropod Nassarius pullus. Marine Pollution Bulletin 62:1772-1779,

(2011)

Andrady, A.L. (2011) “Microplastics in the marine environment”, Marine Pollution Bulletin

62:1596-160 Barnes D. K. A. “Accumulation and fragmentation of plastic debris in global

environments “Phil. Trans. R. Soc. B 364, 1985–1998

Magazine:

Kamol, Ershad, “Let the dead river flow” Published at: Star weekend magazine .volume 64, issue 64,

April 3, 2009

Websites:

1. www.sai.uni-heidelberg.de

2. www.conserve-energy-future.com

3. www.coastalcare.org

4. www.botany.uwc.ac.za

5. www.bdlaws.minlaw.gov.bd

6. www.earthresource.org

7. www.thedailystar.net/magazine

8. www.conserve-energy-future.com

9. www.oceans.greenpeace.org

10. www.mofe.gov.bd

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http://www.mofe.gov.bd/

http://www.oceans.greenpeace.org/


APPENDIX: 01

Environmental Pollution caused by plastic

A research questionnaire to find out some data regarding pollution caused by Plastic

* Required

We are the students of East West University and member of group named “Group: 03”. As a

requirement of Legal Environment of Business (BUS-361) some questionnaires have been design to

find out certain factors that can help us to identify people awareness regarding pollution caused by

plastic. We assure to you that your provided information will be kept secret and only be used for

academic purpose. It will take not more than 10 minutes of your valuable time to fill up. Your

support will be highly respected.

Regards: Abdulla Md. Masum Chowdhury, On the behalf of group: "Group: 03”

Type your name please *

Part one (Demographic Data) *

Gender

Male

Female

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Age group *

18-20

21-25

26-30

31-35

35+

Educational Level *

SSC

HSC

Undergraduate

Graduate

Other

Your profession *

2. Student

3. Employee

4. Business Man

5. Others

Part: B (Hypothetical Assumption) *

1. Are you aware of pollution caused by Plastic?

1 2 3 4 5

Strongly DisagreeStrongly Agree

2. Do you use your Bin properly at home and work place *

1 2 3 4 5

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Strongly agree,. Strongly agree

3. Do you ever thrown plastic bottle here and there *

1 2 3 4 5

Strongly disagree Strongly agree

4. Most of the consumer goods creates pollution because of polythene outfits *

1 2 3 4 5

Strongly disagreeStrongly agree

5. Plastic creates toxic pollution at every stage of its existence

1 2 3 4 5


6. Plastic is a material that the earth cannot digest *

1 2 3 4 5


7. Harmful chemicals leached by plastics are present in the bloodstream *

1 2 3 4 5


8. Your liability to pollute environment *

1 2 3 4 5

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Strongly DisagreeStrongly agree

9. Each of our social structure should maintain proper waste management *

1 2 3 4 5

Strongly disagreeStrongly Agree

10. What are the actions are taken by us to prevent pollution caused by plastic *

Cleaning up program

Distribution leaflet

Rally

Seminar

Door to door awareness program

If you have better suggestions post on the below

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Assignment of Business Law : Environment pollution caused by Plastic, a study on abusing of plastic...

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