Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, stressed on enhancing the nation's capacity to address climate change, allocate a larger budget, and ensure its proper utilization.
She focused on the importance of preparing the youth to adapt to changes and rethink development models and lifestyles.
The adviser made the remarks on Monday while addressing a program titled “COP29: Expectations, Reality, and Lessons for the Future” as the chief guest at the University of Asia Pacific (UAP) on Monday.
The adviser pointed out that the current economic model requires re-evaluation in the context of climate challenges, as geographical existence is under threat due to climate change.
She also noted that there is no international definition of climate finance, and funds labeled under this category often fail to address the actual damage caused by climate change.
Addressing environmental challenges, she mentioned that 28% of air pollution originates from power plants, which remain inadequately controlled.
She stressed the need to give priority environmental justice alongside climate justice and urged immediate action to mitigate declining agricultural land and river pollution.
Rizwana Hasan also remarked that environmental catastrophes are diminishing the country's adaptation capacity, not merely due to the lack of funds but because of systemic inefficiencies. To address these challenges on an international level, Bangladesh must establish a stronger political stance, she opined adding that the youth must be prepared to deliver the right, politically correct messages in negotiations.
Furthermore, the adviser encouraged universities to inspire students to innovate alternatives to polythene and plastic, as such initiatives could bring significant change.
Dr. Ainun Nishat, Professor Emeritus, BRAC University; Architect Mahbuba Haque, Chairperson, Board of Trustees (BOT), UAP; and Prof. Dr. Qumrul Ahsan, Vice Chancellor, UAP, was present as special guests.
Professor Dr. M.A. Baqui Khalily, Dean, School of Business, UAP chaired the programme while Professor Dr. Suborna Barua, University of Dhaka presented the keynote paper.
