WBB Trust (Work for a Better Bangladesh)

Tobacco is a visible threat to the environment and public health

The global tobacco supply chain is having a devastating effect on climate change. Carbon dioxide, methane, and other toxic chemicals and air pollutants emitted by smoking pollute the atmosphere. Tobacco is the leading cause of death of 1 lakh 61 thousand people in Bangladesh every year, and more than 12 lakh people are affected by various incurable diseases. The indiscriminate use and supply of smokeless tobacco in plastic bags or pouches has become one of the major concerns for environmental degradation in several countries.

Tobacco Companies are Attracting the Young People to Smoke by Breaking the Law

Bangladesh government's commitment to build a tobacco-free country by 2040 is under real threat. A real example of this is the tobacco companies setting up smoking zones in various restaurants at their own finance. The companies are also promoting their products in various ways, including research and advertising for tobacco. Representatives of civil society have expressed concern over the incident. 49% of the total population of Bangladesh is young. If it is possible to attract a young person to this addiction, then a long term consumer is created for the company. Note that according to Global Youth Tobacco Survey-2013, 5% of 13-15 year olds in Bangladesh consume tobacco products and this number is constantly increasing. It is imperative to implement the Tobacco Control Act and adopt a definite action plan to overcome these problems.