Superstores started operating without poly bags after the interim government had enforced a nationwide ban on polythene and polypropylene shopping bags in all superstores with effect from Tuesday.
Several superstores, including Agora, were seen replacing PVC bags (polyvinyl chloride), a synthetic plastic material, with jute shopping bags.
Customers, however, are required to purchase these bags, with prices ranging from Tk 15 to Tk 25.聽
Anwar, the in-charge of Agora鈥檚 Panthapath outlet, said that the superstore previously did not use poly bags but provided PVC shopping bags.
Now, they have discontinued the use of PVC bags and made jute bags available for purchase, he said.
Anwar said that many customers welcomed the initiative while some were still adjusting to the changes.
Welcoming the initiative, Razib, a student, mentioned that it would be great if customers had the option to resell the bags.
Earlier, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change announced the enforcement of a ban on the use of poly bags in all markets across the country starting from November 1.
In 2002, the government banned thin polythene and plastic bags, making Bangladesh the first country in the world to impose such a restriction.
The initiative, however, was not effectively implemented, and polythene and plastic bags continued to flood markets over the years.
