Dharan city which lies to the eastern part of Nepal has been known as clean city of Nepal but increase in the immigration of people, increase in population and decreasing awareness among people is slowly infecting Dharan with environmental degradation. On contrary to the increasing trend of environmental pollution, a well execution of eco-friendly manner has been widespread in Dharan these days like many other cities of Nepal. And it is the avoidance of the plastic bags as far as possible.

Dharan municipality announced a plastic bags free law for Dharan from July, 2013. There have been provisions like punishment for use of plastic bags to both the consumers and distributors like other cities of Nepal. The law for plastic bags free area demands fine of Rs. 500 to Rs. 25000 ($ 5 to $250) according the nature of the violation of the rule. The enforcement of this rule has been strongly supported by many local and national organizations and clubs.

The plastic bags free campaign in many parts of the country failed or only partially succeeded due to obvious reasons like lack of alternatives to plastic bags, lack of proper pre-notice etc. But it is really joyful to see Dharan adapting this plastic free campaign so well and with all means.

People are following the practice of taking own shopping bags while going for shopping. Many paper and cotton bags are being used in shopping centers and stores as well. And this has minimized pollution by a lot in Dharan. The municipal waste collecting committee has been happy on the decrease of the wastes created by throwing away of the plastic bags and other plastic materials. The pollution has been decreased by a lot.

Avoiding Plastic Bags is a great step towards sustainable environment protection and conservation. I call upon all the youths of Nepal and beyond to practice this simple steps towards a better earth. And Let us hope the use of alternatives to plastic bags will be followed by other environmental-friendly activities in days to come.

Picture: Paper and Cotton Bags being used in Dharan