Environment, Forest and Climate Change Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan affirmed the government's strong commitment to leading by example in controlling air, noise, plastic, and river pollution.
“Our efforts are focused on ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment for the people of Bangladesh,” she stated. Rizwana Hasan also highlighted the ongoing enforcement of the polythene shopping bag ban and noted that management plans may be updated to address emerging challenges.
She made these remarks during a meeting with Irma van Dueren, the Ambassador of the Netherlands to Bangladesh, at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Tuesday (22 October), reads a press release.
The meeting centered on strengthening collaboration between Bangladesh and the Netherlands in environmental sustainability, water resource management, and pollution control.
Both parties discussed current initiatives and future cooperation to tackle the increasing challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation in Bangladesh.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan underscored the crucial role of community involvement in environmental efforts, particularly in river conservation. “Rivers are the lifeline of our ecosystem, and any sustainable cleanup program must involve local communities. Their participation is essential for the long-term preservation of our natural resources,” she added.
The Dutch ambassador expressed her country’s readiness to support Bangladesh in improving water resource management and mitigating the effects of climate change.
The meeting was attended by high-ranking officials, including the Environment Secretary, the Water Resources Secretary, and the Director General of the Bangladesh Water Development Board, alongside officials from the Dutch Embassy.
Both sides concluded the meeting with optimism about future collaborations to enhance environmental conservation and water resource management in Bangladesh, recognizing the Dutch government’s expertise in water management and Bangladesh’s commitment to sustainable development as a solid foundation for continued partnership.
