Chattogram Zoo has introduced a program allowing visitors under the age of 18 to enter free of charge by exchanging 100 grams of plastic waste in lieu of the usual Tk 70 admission fee. Launched on September 1, the initiative aims to promote environmental awareness and active participation among young people in the city.

Since its inception, more than 400 children have taken part in the scheme. Among them, 10th graders Naimul Haque and Biplob Das shared how the experience influenced their views on plastic pollution. Naimul noted that what began as a way to gain free entry quickly evolved into a meaningful effort to clean the local environment. “When I started picking up bottles from our neighbourhood alleys and school grounds, I realised how much plastic is just lying around everywhere, ruining our city,” he said. Biplob added that the program has made him more conscious about waste disposal, appreciating that the plastic he collects will be recycled rather than discarded improperly.

The campaign is part of a broader effort by local authorities to foster civic responsibility among young residents. Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Jahidul Islam Miah emphasized the importance of practical engagement in environmental initiatives, encouraging children and communities to take ownership of waste management challenges.

However, concerns arose regarding the accumulation of plastic waste at the zoo entrance and its ultimate disposal. Dr. Shahadat Hossain Shuvo, the zoo’s curator, expressed apprehension that if the collected plastic was not properly managed, it could simply return to the environment, undermining the campaign’s goals.

To address this issue, on Monday the district administration signed a one-year, non-financial memorandum of understanding with the nonprofit Young Power in Social Action (YPSA). Under this agreement, YPSA will be responsible for regularly collecting, sorting, and recycling the plastic waste gathered through the program. This partnership aims to ensure the responsible handling of materials and reduce pollution effectively.

Deputy Commissioner Jahidul also noted that the initiative has inspired other neighbourhoods to consider organizing similar plastic collection drives. He acknowledged that completely eliminating plastic use is difficult but stressed the need for proper management, recycling, and safe disposal practices as vital steps toward addressing environmental concerns.