Rising Plastic Waste Poses New Environmental Challenge in Afghanistan
The increase in plastic waste, especially used bottles, has become a serious environmental challenge in Afghanistan in recent years. In Balkh province, recycling factories are seen as a practical solution to reduce pollution in natural areas and mitigate its negative consequences.
In Mazar-e-Sharif city, dozens of factories actively collect plastic waste and convert it into reusable materials after processing. Some of these factories produce fiber or synthetic cotton from used bottles, a product widely used in various industrial sectors and providing direct and indirect employment opportunities for many residents.
According to the Balkh Chamber of Industries and Mines, more than 30 recycling factories operate in this province, producing products such as cardboard, paper, plastic goods, and synthetic fiber from waste. Officials from the chamber say these factories play a significant role not only in reducing unemployment but also in strengthening the local economy.
Imamuddin Sanaei Zadeh, head of the Balkh Chamber of Industries and Mines, stated that recycling companies collect and clean plastic and paper waste before incorporating them into the production cycle of new products.
Meanwhile, officials from Balkh’s Industry and Trade Directorate emphasize continued support for domestic production. Nasir Ahmad Niazi, deputy head of the directorate, said the Taliban administration cooperates with industrialists and investors to strengthen the production sector and reduce reliance on imported goods.
However, environmental experts stress that maintaining this progress is impossible without proper waste management and transparent, practical support for recycling industries. They believe negligence in this area could both exacerbate pollution and undermine newly created job opportunities, a matter requiring accountability and serious action from responsible institutions.
