KABUL – The widespread use of plastic bags and products in Afghanistan is raising significant concerns over their detrimental impact on both public health and the environment, particularly in the capital, Kabul.
According to the National Environmental Protection Authority (NEPA), approximately four tonnes of plastic bags are used daily in Kabul alone, posing a serious threat to urban ecology and public well-being.
Plastic bags remain popular across Afghanistan due to their low cost and widespread availability. However, their improper disposal, coupled with inadequate waste management, has led to pervasive pollution of land and water bodies, endangering both humans and wildlife.
Experts warn that the crisis is being exacerbated by a lack of recycling infrastructure, low public awareness, and weak enforcement of environmental regulations. They emphasize the urgent need for public education and the promotion of eco-friendly alternatives such as cloth and paper bags.
Health Hazards from Plastic
Dr. Sayed Farid Shah Rafi, an internal medicine specialist, referred to plastic as a “silent killer” of the environment and a serious health threat. He explained that plastic materials such as bags, bottles, and food containers are derived from petroleum and are non-biodegradable, lasting 200 to 1,000 years in the environment.
Dr. Rafi also raised concerns about microplastics—tiny fragments that form as plastic breaks down—saying they can enter the water supply, soil, and food chain, potentially causing hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and even cancer. Storing hot or carbonated foods in plastic containers, he warned, accelerates the release of these harmful particles. Burning plastic releases toxic gases that damage the lungs and heart.
Dr. Faridullah Amiri, a trainer at the National Infectious Diseases Hospital in Kabul, said plastic contains harmful elements such as carbon, hydrogen, sulfur, and chlorine, which are associated with cancer, hormonal disruptions, growth delays in children, and mental health issues.
Dr. Mohammad Arif Yaqubi warned that many people unknowingly expose themselves to plastic-related health risks, particularly men, who may experience reduced hormone levels and infertility. Dust-like particles from degraded plastic can be inhaled and may lead to cancer.
Dr. Esmatullah Tsapand, another internal medicine specialist, added: “Using plastic to store hot or acidic foods can release toxic substances that contribute to diabetes and heart disease.” He recommended that only dry foods like rice or sugar be stored in plastic, while hot or ready-to-eat foods should be kept in safer alternatives.
Global Plastic Crisis
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates that over 400 million tonnes of plastic are used globally each year, much of which ends up polluting the planet.
In late 2024, more than 170 countries met in Busan, South Korea, to negotiate a legally binding treaty to combat global plastic pollution, particularly in marine ecosystems.
Environmental Impacts
Dr. Mohammad Dawood Sherzad, Dean of the Environmental Science Faculty at Kabul University, noted that plastic bags pollute soil and water, block rainwater absorption, and endanger animals, both terrestrial and marine, who often mistake plastic for food.
He also pointed to microplastic contamination of the food chain and the contribution of plastic waste to greenhouse gas emissions, worsening climate change.
Municipality’s Response
Niamatullah Barakzai, Cultural Affairs Advisor at Kabul Municipality, acknowledged the severity of plastic use in the capital. He stated that the municipality had conducted awareness campaigns, promoted cloth bags, and organized 400 educational sessions in schools to raise awareness of plastic’s harmful effects.
He described plastic usage as a cultural challenge that requires long-term behavioral change, adding that while a full ban may not be feasible, responsible use and better waste management are essential.
Barakzai also revealed that the municipality is in talks with local and international firms to convert plastic waste into energy, tar, or gas at Guzargah landfill, Kabul’s primary dumping ground for the past 15 years.
NEPA’s Initiatives
Eng. Tofan Jibran, NEPA’s Director of Monitoring and Inspection, confirmed that four tonnes of plastic are consumed daily in Kabul. NEPA has launched awareness drives, restricted imports, and encouraged reductions in domestic plastic production.
The agency is also working with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to promote recycling efforts but maintains that plastic-related health risks remain a major concern. He urged citizens to adopt cloth bags as a safer alternative.
Public Attitudes and Challenges
Despite these efforts, plastic waste remains highly visible in Kabul’s streets, drains, and markets, reflecting broader urban and environmental governance challenges.
Mohammad Fawad, a shopkeeper in the Kalola Pushta area, said he distributes 80 to 100 plastic bags daily but claimed no official had ever encouraged him to stop. “It’s not about the price,” he said, “it’s just a deeply rooted habit.”
Another resident, Jawed, noted that plastic remains popular due to its affordability. “If there were cheaper, safer alternatives, people would switch,” he said.
Nisar Ahmad, a frequent shopper, said he always carries a cloth bag, but most people don’t. He emphasized the role of media and social platforms in spreading awareness.
Conclusion
As plastic-linked pollution continues to rise in Afghanistan, experts and officials agree that public education, regulatory enforcement, and eco-friendly alternatives are critical to mitigating health and environmental risks. The challenge now lies in shaping public habits and implementing lasting, coordinated solutions.
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