Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said ensuring balanced development through the sustainable use of natural resources is the current government's primary objective.
In a message delivered on Wednesday (5 June) on the occasion of World Environment Day, the Prime Minister emphasised the stark reality of climate change and its impacts.
She highlighted that climate change is increasing desertification and drought trends worldwide, putting sustainable land management at risk. Consequently, this year's World Environment Day theme, "Restore the Land, Prevent Desertification, Achieve Drought Resilience," is highly relevant and timely, she added.
The Prime Minister said, "The government is working in collaboration with the United Nations and various regional and international organisations to combat land degradation, desertification, and drought. Bangladesh regularly submits its national implementation reports to the UNCCD. At the national level, the Bangladesh National Action Program (NAP) to Combat Desertification, Land Degradation, and Drought 2015-2024 has been formulated."
She further noted that with over eight billion people currently inhabiting the Earth, the rapidly changing use of land to meet the growing demands of this vast population is leading to significant land degradation. Recognising the importance of this issue, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) has outlined a framework to achieve "Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN)" by 2030.
The Prime Minister warned that if the goal of LDN is not achieved by 2030, up to 135 million people worldwide could be displaced due to drought by 2045.
She expressed strong hope that celebrating World Environment Day will enhance public awareness and engagement, ensuring the conservation of the environment and the sustainable management of ecosystems.
