News / Sustainability
Businessman eyes nationwide expansion of ‘Plastic Free Ramadan’
A pilot scheme, trialed at a local mosque in a bid to overturn plastic waste, has gained significant interest across mosques nationwide.
The initiative began in businessman Naseem Talukdar’s home community of Fishponds, where waste was reduced by 70 per cent through the installation of a water fountain and dishwasher.
The project also focuses on practical actions, such as installing water fountains and providing reusable items at mosques.
Since its launch, the model has been adopted by mosques across the South West, South East, North West, and the Midlands, promoting both environmental awareness and the importance of reducing plastic waste.
A recent event at House of Lords further championed the Plastic Free Ramadan with the attendance of Bristol’s first Green MP, Carla Denyer (second left) – photo: Angela Belassie
The success of the project led to a key conference at the House of Lords, where the Plastic Free Ramadan initiative was further championed.
Launched in 2019 by Projects Against Plastic (PAP), the Plastic Free Ramadan campaign has garnered support from mosques nationwide with its focus on providing sustainable solutions for serving food and drink during Iftar, reducing the reliance on single-use plastic items.
It is estimated that there are 500 mosques across the UK each contributing to a tonne of plastic waste, largely due to disposable cups, plates, and crockery.
The initiative has set its ambition to reduce plastic waste by over 500 tonnes annually, offering significant environmental benefits.
Syed Kamall, a member of the House of Lords, hosted the event and expressed his support for the initiative, praising its role in uniting communities and encouraging positive environmental practices.
The event was also attended by Bristol’s first ever Green MP and Green Party co-leader Carla Denyer.
“If everyone gets involved, we could save around a tonne of waste per mosque, benefiting both the community and the environment,” said Naseem Talukdar – photo: Naseem Talukdar
The recent bans on single-use plastics in the UK, which came into effect in October 2023 and were updated in 2024, further align with the goals of the initiative. The updated legislation restricts the use of certain plastic items in England, making the timing of this campaign even more pertinent.
Sheila El Dieb, chair of the Environmental Task Group for the Bristol Muslim Strategic Leadership Group (BMSLG), emphasised the importance of mosques taking leadership roles in sustainability, particularly during Ramadan.
“Ramadan is a time for Muslims to reflect on their responsibility to the planet, and no step is too small when it comes to making our lives more sustainable,” she said.
Naseem Talukdar, founder of PAP and director of Social Responsibility at UK Curry Connect, believes this initiative could have a long-lasting impact on both the environment and local communities.
“If everyone gets involved, we could save around a tonne of waste per mosque, benefiting both the community and the environment,” he said.
Talukdar is confident that the initiative will serve as an inspiring model for communities across the country to take responsibility and implement far reaching changes.
The Plastic Free Ramadan event at House of Lords took place on February 11.
For more information about the scheme and to get involved, visit pap.org.uk
Main photo: Angela Belassie
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