Pollution caused by the unchecked use of plastic items by tourists is wreaking havoc on the biodiversity and ecosystem of the Sundarbans, speakers said at a discussion today.

They alleged that trawler-based tour operators are among the major contributors to plastic pollution in the world's largest mangrove forest. The remarks were made during an event marking Sundarbans Day, held at the banquet hall of Khulna Press Club and organised by the Sundarbans Academy.

The speakers criticised the state's inaction in protecting the environment, ecosystem, and biodiversity of the Sundarbans. They emphasised the urgent need to intensify efforts to safeguard the forest. They also called for the nationwide adoption of plastic waste management strategies.

Professor Anwarul Kadir, director of Sundarbans Academy, presided over the event, while Mihir Kumar Doe, Khulna divisional conservator of forests, attended as the chief guest.

Among others present were Swapan Kumar Guha, executive director of Rupantar, and Enamul Haque, convener of Khulna Press Club.

Dr Wasiul Islam, professor of forestry and wood technology at Khulna University, delivered a multimedia presentation on the impact of plastic pollution in the Sundarbans.

The speakers also stressed the need to raise public awareness and build a social movement to protect the Sundarbans from plastic and polythene pollution. They urged universities in Khulna to take more research initiatives to support conservation efforts.

Additionally, they pointed out that although the government has designated a 10-kilometer radius around the Sundarbans as an 'Ecologically Critical Area', at least 60 heavy industries -- including cement factories, LP gas plants, oil refineries, and food storage facilities -- have been established in this zone over the past decade. They warned that waste from these industrial sites is polluting the forest's water and soil, posing a severe threat to its biodiversity.

To mark the occasion, various events—including discussion sessions, a photography competition, and a cycling rally—were held in Khulna.

Sundarbans Day is also being observed in neighbouring districts and upazilas, including Satkhira, Bagerhat, Pirojpur, and Barguna, through various activities.