Officials of the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) say that approximately 4 tons of plastic bags are used daily in the country.

According to these officials, the widespread use of plastic bags has become a serious issue for environmental pollution.

"Approximately 4 tons of plastic bags are consumed daily, which causes environmental problems. In recent years, the Environmental Protection Agency has launched campaigns to ban the use of plastics and emphasized replacing plastic bags with cloth bags,” said Tofan Jabirn, head of the Department of Regulation and Control of Air Pollution and Garbage. 

Vendors say that due to the low cost of plastic items, most people tend to use them.
"People use plastic items because they are cheaper, while porcelain utensils are more expensive and unaffordable for many,” said Tamim, a vendor.

"Due to economic challenges, our people opt for cheaper alternatives like plastic," said Abdullah, another vendor.
Some Kabul residents have urged officials to launch awareness programs to reduce the use of plastic.

"People need to be made aware of using cloth bags instead of plastic because plastic causes pollution,” said Abdul Khaliq, a resident of Kabul.

Doctors also warn that using plastic utensils can pose health risks.

"The chemical substances in plastic utensils can cause allergies, respiratory problems, and even cancer, “said Samiullah Ahmadi, a doctor.

At the same time, Kabul Municipality says it has so far conducted 400 awareness programs in schools and employed 1800 women for door-to-door awareness campaigns on this issue.

"Every month, we organize campaigns to reduce the use of plastics and distribute cloth bags. These bags are more durable and biodegradable,” said Nemat Ullah Barakzai, a representative of Kabul Municipality.

With the continuation of these efforts, officials hope that the use of plastics will decrease and that a culture of using environmentally friendly materials will be promoted in society.