A study was conducted on manufacturers of alternatives to single use plastic items in Bangladesh by Environment and Social Development Organization – ESDO from 2nd March, 2020 upto 10 march, 2020.The prime objective of the study was to identify the local entrepreneurs or aspirants currently involved with the manufacturing of environment friendly alternatives to plastics and subsequently collect information to assess the current status and prospects of single use plastic alternative manufacturing industry in Bangladesh.

Under the provision of this study, 6 respondents from the targeted stakeholder group were extensively interviewed. The findings suggest that, two major types of businesses are currently operating in Bangladesh in this particular arena – Locally procured raw material and local market based and imported raw material and export focused. Most of the respondents are involved with the manufacturing of agro waste based single use items (Primarily Areca Leaf made Plates and Bowls) using locally supplied raw materials. However, few respondents reportedly import raw materials from overseas countries and process the products locally using imported machineries and then, export them to foreign countries.

The overall findings suggest that, although in small scale, SMEs are getting involved with the manufacturing, processing and supply of environment friendly alternatives to single use plastic items in Bangladesh. However, due to lack of funding, political will power and govt. support, the traders and manufacturer in this sector are reportedly suffering from challenges.