You are currently viewing Youth Action for a Plastic-Free Future: ESDO Hosts Workshop on Youth Engagement in Global Plastic Treaty (INC-5.2)
The Environment and Social Development Organization (ESDO) successfully organized a dynamic workshop titled “The Role of Bangladeshi Youth in the Global Plastic Treaty (INC-5.2)” on May 24, 2025, at its headquarters in Dhaka. The workshop aimed to inspire and empower Bangladeshi youth to actively participate in shaping both national and global policies surrounding plastic pollution. This initiative comes at a critical time as the world gears up for the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) for a legally binding treaty on plastic pollution. Recognizing the pivotal role of youth in environmental transformation, ESDO convened passionate young leaders, environmental experts, and policymakers to foster meaningful dialogue and action.

Youth Action for a Plastic-Free Future: ESDO Hosts Workshop on Youth Engagement in Global Plastic Treaty (INC-5.2)

The Environment and Social Development Organization (ESDO) successfully organized a dynamic workshop titled “The Role of Bangladeshi Youth in the Global Plastic Treaty (INC-5.2)” on May 24, 2025, at its headquarters in Dhaka. The workshop aimed to inspire and empower Bangladeshi youth to actively participate in shaping both national and global policies surrounding plastic pollution.

This initiative comes at a critical time as the world gears up for the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) for a legally binding treaty on plastic pollution. Recognizing the pivotal role of youth in environmental transformation, ESDO convened passionate young leaders, environmental experts, and policymakers to foster meaningful dialogue and action.

Workshop Objectives

The primary goal of the workshop was to:

  • Educate youth about the Global Plastics Treaty and its implications.
  • Encourage youth-led advocacy on plastic pollution and environmental justice.
  • Initiate the formation of a Youth and Children’s Action Group to support treaty-related initiatives and sustainable community action.

Session Highlights

  • Welcome Address: Ms. Noshin Naila, Research and Campaign Associate at ESDO, opened the event by outlining ESDO’s mission and emphasizing youth inclusion in environmental governance.
  • Understanding Plastic Pollution: Ms. Maliha Haque, Assistant Program Associate, provided a comprehensive overview of the current plastic crisis, focusing on national and global trends and the urgent need for youth participation.
  • Youth Action Group Proposal: Mr. Rifayat Khan Shishir introduced a proposal to form a dedicated youth and children’s action group. Ms. Sara Anwar facilitated a discussion on the operational mechanisms, member roles, and opportunities for participants to engage in treaty-focused advocacy.

Key Presentations

  • Overview of the Global Plastics Treaty (INC-5.2): Explaining the objectives, negotiation process, and Bangladesh’s role in advancing the treaty.
  • Policy Gaps and National Strategies: Addressing the state of plastic waste management in Bangladesh and the role youth can play in bridging existing gaps.
  • Youth Engagement in Environmental Diplomacy: Exploring ways to integrate youth voices in upcoming international environmental conventions and platforms.

Distinguished Speakers

  • Ms. Siddika Sultana, Executive Director of ESDO, emphasized the transformative power of youth in creating sustainable and policy-driven change.
  • Dr. Shahriar Hossain, Senior Technical Advisor & Secretary General of ESDO, shared insights on Bangladesh’s historic polythene ban and the need for continued public awareness and innovation in alternatives.
  • Dr. Abdullah Al Mamun, Deputy Director (Chemical Division), Department of Environment, called on youth to take environmental responsibility and support eco-friendly industries and practices.

Conclusion and Way Forward

The workshop concluded with an energized commitment from participants to take forward the momentum generated during the session. With the formation of the Youth and Children’s Action Group, ESDO envisions a more inclusive and impactful youth presence in global environmental negotiations and grassroots-level change.

Together, we can bridge local efforts with global action to create a plastic-free and sustainable future.

🔗 Stay connected with ESDO for updates on the Youth Action Group and upcoming international environmental events.

#YouthForTreaty #INC5_2 #PlasticFreeBangladesh #ESDO #Sustainability #YouthLeadership #PlasticTreaty #EnvironmentalAction

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