Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, on Thursday expressed interest in exploring comprehensive economic partnership agreements with developed countries underscoring the need for inclusive negotiations with major trade partners. This is needed to avoid imbalances that harm exporters and consumers alike, she said. She also reaffirmed Bangladesh’s readiness to lead in sustainable development and trade-driven green growth.Rizwana made these remarks during a meeting with Ratnakar Adhikari, executive director of the Executive Secretariat for the Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF) at the World Trade Organization (WTO), held in the capital.The meeting covered a broad range of topics, including enhancing Bangladesh’s trade resilience in the face of global economic uncertainty, expanding regional cooperation and attracting investment in green industrial infrastructure.She also mentioned that to ensure long-term economic stability, Bangladesh must achieve strategic autonomy by developing alternative logistics and export routes. “Our economic sovereignty is vital for national survival.”EIF Chief Adhikari discussed global trade dynamics impacting Bangladesh’s key export sectors, particularly ready-made garments and stressed the need for fast-tracking the development of export-oriented industrial facilities.He also emphasised the importance of diversifying trade partnerships and responding to shifting regional trade policies.Highlighting the link between trade and climate action, Adhikari spoke about Bangladesh’s potential to access international climate finance through better coordination between trade and environmental policies.He shared examples from EIF-supported countries like the Gambia, where coordinated efforts led to the formulation of green recovery plans and major investment proposals for sustainable industrial development.The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to advancing sustainable trade practices, strengthening regional ties, and pursuing innovative solutions for green industrial transformation.END/UNB/MAS/F  

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan on Thursday emphasised the need for effective regional actions to address transboundary air pollution.  "About 30-35% of Bangladesh’s air pollution originates from neighbouring countries. Therefore, solving this issue requires moving beyond political discussions to practical measures and regional cooperation," she said while virtually addressing the World Bank’s South Asia side event at the World Health Organization’s (WHO) second global conference in Cartagena, Colombia.  Referring to the Kathmandu Roadmap and other agreements among South Asian nations, the adviser noted that while these are important steps, they are insufficient. Stronger initiatives are needed to tackle air pollution effectively, she stressed.  She mentioned that Bangladesh has finalised its Air Quality Control Regulations, aligning them with the WHO’s interim targets. These legal provisions set specific standards for polluting sectors and establish a framework for controlling both internal and external air pollution.  "The implementation of the National Air Quality Management Plan, finalised in 2024, was delayed due to political instability. However, it is now being executed effectively, aiming to reduce pollution-related risks and increase the number of clean air days to safeguard public health," she added.  The adviser further said that Bangladesh’s Clean Air Project, supported by the World Bank, is in its final stages and will be implemented soon, pending government approval. The project focuses on strengthening regulatory frameworks, enforcing environmental laws, expanding pollution monitoring systems in industries, and modernising the public transport sector.  She also announced plans to designate areas around Dhaka as "brick kiln-free zones," where the establishment of brick kilns will be prohibited. Rizwana calls for national consensus for essential reforms Besides, starting in May, old buses will be gradually phased out under a joint initiative by the Ministry of Environment and the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA).  To combat dust pollution—one of the major contributors to poor air quality—initiatives such as urban greening along open roads in Dhaka and hiring more workers for street cleaning are being planned, she said. The adviser highlighted that the demolition of illegal brick kilns has already led to some improvement in air quality, but sustained progress requires strict monitoring and modernisation of polluting sectors.  Rizwana Hasan pointed out that air pollution causes thousands of deaths in Bangladesh every year, with people in heavily polluted cities like Dhaka losing an estimated 5-7 years of their average lifespan.  Adviser Rizwana calls for urgent reform in waste management "This crisis affects all of us—our children, parents, and future generations. The cost of inaction is too high. We must act now," she said.  Expressing optimism, she said, "I am hopeful because I believe a solution is possible. We have the technology and alternatives at our disposal; what we need is commitment and implementation. Air pollution is not just an environmental issue—it is a humanitarian crisis."  The conference was attended by ministerial representatives from South Asian countries, policymakers in the environment and energy sectors, representatives from international and development organisations, researchers, local administrators, transport and industrial experts, and members of civil society.

Environment, Forests and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan on Tuesday said the government has decided to recruit 2,000 more doctors to enhance healthcare access to the grassroots level. “The recruitment process for 3,493 doctors through the Bangladesh Public Service Commission (PSC) is currently underway. In addition, we have decided to hire 2,000 more doctors to address the healthcare needs in rural areas,” she said during a briefing at the Foreign Service Academy. During the meeting, the Council of Advisers also decided to rename two institutions: the Bangabandhu Science and Technology Fellowship Trust and the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre. The briefing was held following a Council of Advisers meeting chaired by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at the Chief Adviser's Office in Tejgaon. Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, Deputy Press Secretaries Apurba Jahangir and Abul Kalam Azad Majumder and Assistant Press Secretary Suchismita Tithi were also present at the press briefing. Adviser Rizwana emphasised the government's commitment to addressing the healthcare gap in rural areas, noting that rural populations are underserved in terms of medical care. “The main goal of today's decision is to ensure that healthcare services and doctors are more accessible at the grassroots level.” Aramco to supply LNG to Bangladesh at lower prices: Rizwana  In addition to this, the Council of Advisers reviewed the progress of its decisions, revealing that out of 135 decisions made, 92 (or approximately 68%) have already been implemented. The council also agreed to set global standards for the regulation of saturated fat content in food products. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education has revoked its decision to allocate a five percent quota in government secondary schools for family members of those injured or killed during the July Uprising, and has instead instructed that one extra seat per class be reserved for such students. Referring to the matter, Adviser Rizwana said this facility will be a one-time facility for the admission of family members of those injured and martyred in the July Uprising 2024 to schools. “It is being considered as part of the one-time assistance being provided to the affected families. It is in no way comparable to a quota,” she said.

Necessary steps must be taken to construct eco-friendly buildings under government development projects to prevent electricity wastage, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said on Thursday. The buildings should be designed to be environmentally friendly, she said while speaking at a review meeting held at the ministry’s conference room at the Secretariat. Government promoting alternatives to single-use plastics: Rizwana The meeting assessed the implementation progress of ADP projects for the fiscal year 2024-2025 up to January 2025. The adviser also spoke about the importance of developing monthly work plans to ensure the timely execution of development projects. She directed officials to promote the use of alternatives to plastic products. Besides, she reaffirmed that action against river encroachment and dust pollution would continue. Meanwhile, a 144-acre forest area covered with sal trees in Sectors 24 and 25 of the Purbachal New Town project was declared a "Special Biodiversity Area." In addition, the Forest Department launched a nationwide tree protection campaign, removing nails from trees, which started on February 26. This campaign will continue for a month. Govt to boost research into environmental protection: Adviser Rizwana Director General of the Department of Environment Dr Md Kamruzzaman and Chief Conservator of Forests Md. Amir Hossain Chowdhury were present at the time, among others.

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan on Monday emphasised the need for collective action to restore Bangladesh's endangered rivers. "Restoring rivers is challenging, but it is possible. And we must start today," she stressed. Speaking at an international seminar on water and flood management at the CIRDAP auditorium in Dhaka, the adviser highlighted discussions with international and bilateral development partners and noted the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) interest in the restoration of the Buriganga River. She pointed out the significant gap between policy formulation and implementation and identified the lack of commitment to execution as the primary challenge. "People expect immediate solutions -- clean air today, a pollution-free river tomorrow. But an environment neglected and destroyed over decades cannot be restored overnight," she said. Chinese company to invest $3.82 million in Ishwardi EPZ to produce wigs  The adviser highlighted excessive water extraction as a critical issue, causing rivers to lose their natural flow. Many rivers that once merged into the sea are now drying up and turning into industrial waste drains. "We must change this situation," she asserted. Addressing transboundary water-sharing issues, Rizwana Hasan stressed the need for strategic preparedness. She mentioned that Bangladesh is in the final stages of ratifying the European Convention on Shared Lakes and Rivers, which will strengthen the country's position in international water negotiations. Regarding flood management, she underlined Bangladesh's vulnerability to climate risks. She called for increased investment in river dredging, flood prevention, and community preparedness. "Our early warning systems must be more effective, and information must reach people in a language they understand," she added. The seminar was chaired by Prof Abu Borhan Mohammad Badruzzaman, vice-chancellor of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). Other speakers included Nazmul Ahsan, secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources; SM Mahbubur Rahman, executive director of the Institute of Water Modelling (IWM); Malik Fida A Khan, executive director of the Center for Environmental and Geographic Information Services (CEGIS).

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, has called upon students to be responsible citizens and future leaders dedicated to building an environmentally and socially just, discrimination-free Bangladesh. "Together, we can build a Bangladesh free from exploitation and injustice—a nation that upholds the rule of law, champions justice, and sets an example for others to follow," she said.  Emphasizing the importance of character and service, she urged the graduates to be compassionate, socially responsible, and environmentally conscious in their personal and professional lives. The adviser said this while delivering the speech of the Convocation President at the convocation ceremony of the International University of Business Agriculture and Technology (IUBAT) today at the BICC, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital, according to a media release sent from her ministry on Monday. Rizwana calls for effective action against plastic pollution, clarifies government stance on single-use plastics Addressing the graduating students, the Adviser made two simple yet impactful appeals to the audience. She asked to avoid unnecessary honking to contribute to a more peaceful and environmentally friendly society.  She also asked to reduce single-use plastic consumption to combat the growing threat of plastic pollution and ensure a healthier planet for future generations. Reflecting on the resilience of the younger generation, she said, “This dream of a new Bangladesh has been made possible because of your bravery and sacrifices. You have endured hardships and fought for a nation free from oppression and discrimination.” She reminded them that while their education equips them for career success, their true purpose lies in using their knowledge to serve society. Highlighting the environmental challenges posed by conventional development models, she urged a shift towards a more sustainable approach. “Development should not come at the cost of nature. If we truly wish to progress as a nation, we must redefine our concept of development to minimize environmental degradation and improve sustainability indicators.” She encouraged IUBAT to take a leading role in promoting a model of progress that harmonizes economic growth with environmental stewardship. 19 canals to be reclaimed in Dhaka this year: Rizwana As the graduates step into the future, Rizwana expressed confidence that they would uphold integrity, innovation, and social responsibility in their pursuits. “With the education you have received and the careers you will build, I trust you will be the change-makers who drive Bangladesh towards a greener, more just future,” she concluded. Prof Dr Abdur Rab, Vice-Chancellor, IUBAT;  Convocation Speaker Prof. Dr Tamsin Bradley, Professor, University of Portsmouth, UK; Professor Selina Nargis, Treasurer, IUBAT and Riana Azad, an awarded graduate, also spoke on the occasion.  

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has called for rising above narrow-mindedness to build a democratic, non-discriminatory and inclusive Bangladesh. She emphasised that the sacrifices made during the July Uprising by students set a powerful example for reshaping the nation. Speaking at the inauguration of a special exhibition, organised by Prothom Alo, on the July Uprising at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on Friday, Rizwana said, "This movement proves that the fall of violent dictatorships is inevitable. The courage demonstrated by the student community during the July-August uprising is unparalleled. As a nation, we must honour their sacrifice by building a Bangladesh where democracy, rights and equality thrive." She expressed heartfelt solidarity with the students who bore the brunt of the struggle. “Many students who dreamed of becoming cricketers or footballers have suffered life-altering injuries, including blindness. Despite our efforts, we cannot restore their lost eyesight, but we can ensure that their sacrifices are not forgotten," she said. Survival depends on clean air and water, not on material possessions: Rizwana Highlighting the importance of unity, Rizwana urged all to work collectively, leaving behind organisational and individual biases, to achieve the dreams of future generations. “Building a safe and equitable Bangladesh will be the true tribute to those who paved the way with their lives,” she added. Social Welfare Adviser Sharmin S Murshid also addressed the event, acknowledging past failures to fulfil the aspirations of the student community. "Now is the time to build Bangladesh in line with their dreams. It is a collective responsibility," she said. British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cook and Prothom Alo Executive Editor Sajjad Sharif also spoke at the event. Following the inauguration, Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman joined other guests to see the exhibition. The exhibition, showcasing artifacts and accounts from the July Uprising, will remain open to the public until January 31, from 12pm to 8pm daily and from 3pm to 8pm on Fridays.

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has said that people's survival ultimately depends on their access to clean air, water, and soil—not on material possessions such as polished houses or luxurious cars.Despite the country's heavily polluted air quality and rivers, it is never too late to begin the restoration process., she stressed. Rizwana, US Charge d’Affaires discuss critical environmental challenges “Change starts with each of us. Instead of asking why banned polythene bags are still on the market, ask yourself why you continue to use them. Single-use plastics take hundreds of years to decompose and ultimately re-enter our food chain as harmful microplastics,” she said on Thursday.The Environment Adviser was delivering the keynote address at the inaugural ceremony of the first Bangladesh qualifier for the Stetson International Environmental Moot Court Competition (Stetson IEMCC) 2024-2025 on Thursday evening.The event, hosted by the Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), saw enthusiastic participation from students representing 34 universities across the country.Rizwana urged the participants to reconsider everyday habits, such as unnecessary honking, which contributes to noise pollution. “Even in a bustling city like Dhaka, it is possible to drive without honking if we are mindful.”Reflecting on the pressing environmental challenges of today, she called upon the younger generation not to repeat the mistakes of their predecessors. “Embrace sustainable practices, respect nature, and redesign development models to prioritise environmental balance.”Expressing her satisfaction with the event’s inclusivity, Rizwana said, “I am pleased to see gender balance among participants, with an equal number of men and women. I hope this moot court competition inspires you to explore more opportunities like this and prepare for a world that demands meaningful action to tackle environmental issues.”She also highlighted the importance of environmental advocacy, stating, “Environmental advocates can practice law, engage with communities, and serve people in impactful ways. Events like this not only enhance your legal acumen but also instil a sense of responsibility towards the planet.”The Stetson International Environmental Moot Court Competition, renowned for promoting environmental law education globally, aims to equip aspiring lawyers with the tools to address critical environmental issues through advocacy and legal reasoning. Adviser Rizwana urges unified global action to tackle climate changeThe inaugural ceremony concluded with a call to action for young minds to champion sustainability and contribute to a greener, more resilient future.

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has called for unified global action to confront the challenges of climate change. She spoke about the importance of minimising environmental harm while striving to meet mitigation targets during a Capacity Building Workshop on Paris Agreement Article 6 Implementation, held at the Department of Environment Agargaon, on Wednesday. Environment Secretary Dr Farhina Ahmed addressed the event as a special guest, while the Department of Environment Director General presided over the workshop. Rizwana, US Charge d’Affaires discuss critical environmental challenges “Market-driven solutions have a role, but my humble request is to prepare ourselves for the challenges of climate change. Together, we must work to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Failure to do so will endanger the existence of vulnerable countries like ours. Let the urgency of this crisis inspire us to achieve our future aspirations,” Adviser Rizwana said. “Mitigating through trading comes with a price, but it also offers opportunities to improve governance standards and operational efficiency. For instance, Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects in the energy sector can address gas emissions and improve efficiency across industries,” she added. Hilly areas neglected in climate change interventions: Rizwana  “With modest investment, we can scale up initiatives that save lives by targeting air quality improvements. The government is focusing on investments that prioritise saving lives over creating extravagant infrastructure,” she also said. “The demand for climate justice must centre on mitigation. While countries like Bangladesh have had voluntary obligations historically, the Paris Agreement now extends this framework globally. Mechanisms like Article 6 and Article 6.4 pose challenges in ensuring fair responsibility sharing, but they also offer opportunities for carbon trading and collaboration,” Rizwana said.

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has stressed the critical role of women alongside men in promoting environmental conservation and climate resilience. "We must commit to collective efforts to address societal challenges and uplift communities. By securing equity and sharing responsibility, we can create a better world where everyone can progress," she said. She made the remarks at a function organised to mark the 40th anniversary of Inner Wheel District 328 on Friday at the Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel in Dhaka. Govt finalises plan for Swatch of No-Ground to protect marine biodiversity: Rizwana The adviser urged citizens to work tirelessly for positive change and extend support to disadvantaged individuals. She highlighted the importance of stepping out of comfort zones to advocate for justice and dignity as central to all human endeavours, whether by the state or private individuals. She also encouraged organisations like the Inner Wheel to continue inspiring others through service and friendship, setting impactful examples for society to follow. Environment Adviser seeks Chinese cooperation in air quality management During the event, the adviser unveiled a souvenir and conference newsletter and presented appreciation awards to the recipients. She also visited the anti-plastic pollution stall titled "Less Plastic, More Life" at the exhibition organised on the occasion and also celebrated the 40th anniversary of Inner Wheel District 328 by cutting a cake.