The Dhaka University Public Administration (DUPA) Earth Club organised its inaugural environmental festival, Eco-Fest 1.0, at the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Dhaka, with the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution: From Policy to Plantation.” The day-long event brought together over a hundred students, academics, and environmental advocates in a collective effort to raise awareness and inspire action against plastic pollution.

Held in collaboration with Environment and Social Development Organization (ESDO), Mission Green Bangladesh, and Dhaka University Environment Society, the festival provided a platform for creative expression, policy dialogue, and community engagement on pressing environmental issues.

The programme began with a formal inauguration featuring a distinguished panel of speakers. Guests included Dr Naznin Islam and Dr Nusrat Jahan Chowdhury, professors from the Department of Public Administration at the University of Dhaka; Jalal Ahmed, Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC); Mst Marzina Begum, Chairperson of the Department of Public Administration at the University of Rajshahi; Prof Dr Mohammad Zashim Uddin of the Department of Botany; and Md Mosheur Rahman, Head of Planning and DRR Unit at ESDO. Speakers addressed the harmful impacts of plastic pollution and the need for institutional reform, behavioural change, and active youth involvement.

Participants took part in multiple interactive segments throughout the day. An essay competition encouraged students to explore policy solutions to environmental challenges, while a photography exhibition displayed visual narratives capturing the contrast between environmental degradation and natural beauty. The poster presentation segment showcased innovative student ideas on climate justice and sustainable alternatives to plastic.

Adding to the event’s appeal, students set up a range of eco-friendly stalls selling homemade food, handcrafted products, and upcycled items. The DUPA Earth Club stall demonstrated sustainable living practices, featuring reusable items and awareness materials on plastic reduction.

The festival also served as a hub for networking and collaboration. Students from various universities engaged in meaningful dialogue and shared ideas, reinforcing the importance of grassroots mobilisation in combating environmental challenges.

Eco-Fest 1.0 concluded with renewed calls for action, highlighting the need for policy-driven solutions and widespread public awareness. The event underscored the critical role of young people in shaping a sustainable future and demonstrated the power of collective initiative in addressing the environmental crises facing Bangladesh.