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.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Saturday described Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan’s comments on reforms involving political parties as “incorrect and confusing”. Speaking to reporters after paying homage at the Martyred Intellectuals Memorial in Mirpur, he also said such remarks have reflected efforts to depoliticise the country. “I would like to say the statement made by an advisor yesterday (Friday) about reforms is false. The advisor's statement is incorrect and misleading,” the BNP leader said. He said all the reforms across the world have been implemented by politicians. “All reforms have been carried out in parliament. Reforms worldwide, including in Britain and America, have been done by politicians.” BNP hopes election to be arranged soon He observed that doing excesses regarding reforms and blaming politicians is a sign of ignorance of history. Mentioning that reform is an ongoing process, Rizvi said reforms are undertaken in response to the changing needs of society in every country and era. He said irregularities in society cannot be eliminated in a day. “This requires cooperation from all levels.”  The BNP leader reaffirmed that their party has been cooperating with the interim government to ensure the national election is held within a reasonable timeframe after completing necessary reforms. In response to a question, he said the current government is now in a position between politics and depoliticisation.  Rizvi urged all to remain cautious against the spread of propaganda and misinformation targeting Bangladesh. BNP pays homage to martyred intellectuals “We are a free nation, our country is an independent, sovereign nation. This country gained its independence through the Liberation War. So, this nation will not bow to anyone’s threats,” he said. Earlier on Friday, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan had questioned the lack of progress in political reforms over the past decades. "If political reforms cannot be achieved without the involvement of political parties, why haven't they been implemented in the last 53 years?" she asked, speaking at an awareness and driver retraining programme on noise pollution control in the capital.

Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan emphasized the need for energy sovereignty and inclusive energy transition to achieve sustainable development goals. Bangladesh's energy future must focus on clean, affordable, and reliable systems while addressing climate change and energy equity, she said. Speaking at the closing programme of the 2nd Conference of "Bangladesh Energy Prosperity 2050" on Friday at the BIAM Foundation Complex in Dhaka, she remarked, an opportunity for change has come in the energy sector.” New rules will empower police to control noise pollution: Adviser Rizwana “We need to find a way to achieve energy sovereignty. The government will continue to meet the demands of civil society, and there needs to be a dialogue on whether the energy policy should be revised or changed,” she added. The Adviser highlighted the need for innovation, capacity building, and regional cooperation to harness renewable energy potential. She said our journey towards energy prosperity in 2050 requires collective efforts from policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and citizens. The conference included discussions on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and innovative financing mechanisms. Participants explored ways to reduce dependency on fossil fuels while ensuring energy access for all. The event brought together policymakers, academics, and industry experts to develop actionable strategies for a sustainable energy future. The closing session concluded with a commitment to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders and accelerate the adoption of clean energy solutions in line with Bangladesh's national priorities.

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has said that rules to control noise pollution will be finalized in December, adding that the new rules will empower police to control noise pollution. Speaking at an awareness program on noise pollution in Gulshan, she emphasized the need for more than just fines and jail terms. Public awareness and responsible behavior are key, she said. She highlighted the harmful effects of noise pollution on both physical and mental health, urging cooperation from all to tackle the issue. Addressing car owners, she advised, "Imagine your horn doesn't work—don't honk," and encouraged reducing vehicle speed to lower accident risks. Political clouds with India cleared for mutual benefit: Adviser Rizwana Special initiatives will be introduced in 10 areas of Dhaka to combat noise pollution, added the adviser. With collective effort, she believes a livable, noise-free city is achievable. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including RAJUK Chairman Major General (retd.) Md. Siddikur Rahman Sarkar, Dhaka North City Corporation Administrator Md. Mahmudul Hasan, and others. After the programme, the adviser visited Gulshan Lake and instructed the installation of a sewage treatment plant to address its pollution.  

Water Resources and Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said the final list of rivers in Bangladesh will be published on Pahela Baishakh. The Ministry of Water Resources, Ministry of Shipping, and Ministry of Land will work together to finalise the list, she said at a seminar at the Water Development Board's Multipurpose Hall in the capital on Tuesday. Rizwana said that there is no such thing as "dead river" but rather a "flow less river" and  there are many processes to revive flow less rivers. “We have finalised the list of haors and beels and the next step is to finalise the list of canals,” she added. The adviser also instructed all deputy commissioners to verify and send the list of canals in their respective districts to the Ministry within the next three months ensuring that records are accurate. The adviser directed the authorities concerned to develop a comprehensive action plan to free rivers surrounding Dhaka including Buriganga, Turag, and Shitalakkhya the from encroachment and pollution. She also said a “Blue Network” will be created by freeing 21 canals inside Dhaka from encroachment and pollution. 2362 women face violence in 11 months: Bangladesh Mahila Parishad The seminar, chaired by the Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Nazmul Ahsan, was attended by senior officials from the Ministry, the Water Development Board, and deputy and divisional commissioners via a virtual platform.  

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has expressed profound disappointment with the latest text on the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) for climate finance, published by the COP29 Presidency as the conference nears conclusion. In her statement, she referred to it as a “very disappointing package,” noting its failure to meet the critical needs of least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS). “The proposed decision to allocate USD 250 billion per year for all developing countries is shockingly insufficient,” she said, emphasizing that the amount is neither provisioned nor designated as grants. Furthermore, the text fails to allocate any dedicated funds to the most vulnerable 45 LDCs. The adviser highlighted the inadequacy of the COP29 outcomes in addressing climate finance challenges, despite this conference being explicitly focused on the issue. “The package has failed to provide the minimum required justification for an NCQG that should uplift the most vulnerable nations. It offers nothing concrete for LDCs and SIDS, leaving them exposed to escalating climate risks.” COP29: Bangladesh urges EU to support proposal for allocating $200bn to LDCs Rizwana urged LDCs to resist this package, asserting that it “will make little difference in reality” without substantive revisions. She called on all stakeholders to advocate for a more ambitious, fair, and actionable climate finance framework that prioritizes the needs of the world's most vulnerable communities.