Information during disasters is more necessary than food, as timely warnings can save countless lives, said experts at a national learning event on Wednesday. The event, titled “Digital Innovation in Early Warning System: Building Climate Resilience in Bangladesh”, was organised by Practical Action at a Dhaka hotel. Md Amadul Haque, Joint Secretary and Director of the Cyclone Preparedness Programme (CPP) under the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, attended as the chief guest. Dhaka 5th worst city in the world today He emphasised that accurate and timely information is the key to disaster preparedness. “The most important thing during a disaster is information. It must reach people before relief efforts begin. If we had proper information, ten lakh lives could have been saved in 1970,” he said. Amadul noted that a cyclone may last 6-10 hours, people may not eat but the message must be received, adding, “So information is more essential than food; information saves lives.” He emphasized that information should be clear and easy-to-understand and must reach the last mile effectively. Professor Mansur Rahman of BUET’s Institute of Water and Flood Management highlighted the need for collective efforts in disaster preparedness. “The government and NGOs alone cannot achieve this. Anticipatory actions are crucial to reduce post-disaster recovery needs. Collaboration across ministries, agencies and organisations is essential,” he said. BMD predicts cooler nights ahead Robin Kumar Biswas, Superintending Engineer at the Bangladesh Water Development Board, mentioned that efforts are ongoing to develop an automated river erosion forecasting system. He noted that integrating factors like land use and economic changes would significantly improve decision-making during disasters. Practical Action’s Bangladesh Country Director Ishrat Shabnam said, “Technology has improved a lot now. The system we're up to now can be upgraded even more if we want to. Our current efforts focus on developing a holistic approach to addressing disasters and an app has already been created for this purpose, which is currently serving people effectively.” International Migrants Day, National Expatriates’ Day 2024 celebrated in Japan Looking ahead, we have a 15-year journey and I am hopeful that we will be able to expand opportunities for work in the future, she said. The event featured keynote presentations by SM Ashikul Islam, Senior Project Officer at Practical Action, and Tamanna Rahman, Thematic Lead for Climate and Resilience at Practical Action.

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 on Thursday said a task force will be formed very soon and certain areas will be declared as "no brickfield zones" in a bid to control air pollution. “The government is making every effort to control air pollution. As part of this initiative, a task force will be formed very soon that will work until the next monsoon. Besides, certain areas are set to be declared as ‘No Brickfield Zones’ (to control air pollution),” she said while speaking at an inter-ministerial meeting at the Local Government Division conference room at the Secretariat. Govt committed to ensuring cost-effective, high-quality energy: Rizwana The meeting focused on strategies to combat air pollution in Dhaka and surrounding areas during the dry season. Recognising that air pollution cannot be resolved overnight, the meeting encouraged people to wear masks. Rizwana said old vehicles will be removed from the streets within the next six months, and police have already been instructed to restrict open trucks from entering the capital. “Sources of air pollution are being identified, and measures are being implemented. Strict steps are being taken to control dust from construction work, emissions from brick kilns, and vehicle exhaust,” she said. Final list of rivers to be published on Pahela Baishakh: Adviser Rizwana The adviser emphasised the importance of raising public awareness, enforcing laws, and enhancing monitoring systems to address the issue effectively. She instructed the authorities concerned to spray water to reduce dust during construction, cover construction materials, and use protective barriers. She stressed the need for regular use of vacuum trucks for cleaning roads, prompt road repairs, planting grass along roadsides, ensuring designated waste disposal areas, and banning the burning of waste. At the meeting, LGRD Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan said initiatives will be taken to recover canals and develop open spaces as playgrounds. ‘Resolve conflicts through dialogue with govt, avoid destructive activities that can harm national interest’: Adviser Rizwana  He put emphasis on integrated efforts to improve the country’s environmental quality. The meeting decided that effective laws will be implemented to control pollution, and regular monitoring will be carried out. All necessary steps will be taken, including regular spraying of water to control dust.

Bangladesh has urged the EU to support a proposal for allocating USD 200 billion to the LDCs and the most vulnerable countries, ensuring these nations can effectively respond to the challenges of the climate crisis. Bangladesh raised this point during a key bilateral meeting held on Friday between the ministers of the least developed countries (LDCs) and the European Union (EU), focusing on the final outcomes of COP29. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration on unresolved issues to ensure a balanced and equitable outcome for all parties involved. At the meeting, the Bangladesh delegation head highlighted that "many issues remain unresolved," urging both groups to work together to secure a meaningful and inclusive deal for COP29. Unity among climate-affected nations more important than funding, Adviser Rizwana says at COP29 During the meeting, LDC ministers shared their key positions, emphasizing the urgent need for financial and technical support to address the impacts of climate change. The EU ministers acknowledged the concerns raised by the LDCs and reaffirmed their commitment to addressing climate vulnerabilities while fostering sustainable development. The discussions focused on crucial areas such as climate finance, adaptation, mitigation, and the global stocktake process. The meeting marks an essential step in ensuring that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard and acted upon in the final negotiations of COP29.  

Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has called for grant-based allocations for adaptation, loss and damage, and other critical areas in the ongoing New Collective Quantified Goals (NCQG) negotiations at the World Climate Conference (COP29). Speaking at the plenary session on NCQG, she emphasized the pressing need for a fair, transparent, and equitable approach to climate finance that reflects the realities faced by Least Developed Countries (LDCs). She noted, Option 1 of Goal Formulation is still not reflective of the realities and circumstances in the LDCs and remains weak. A quantified share for adaptation, at least 50%, must be included to ensure equitable allocation. The adviser said the Bangladesh delegation expressed alignment with the G77, LDCs, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in advocating for a robust and inclusive NCQG framework. However, Hasan highlighted significant gaps in the proposed text, such as the absence of a clear grant element and the problematic linkage of grant finance to mobilized finance, as outlined in paragraph 23. She further rejected Option 2, which includes counting all finance, investments, and even domestic resources in developing countries, and raised concerns about certain financing channels referenced in paragraphs 32 and 33. “Such provisions undermine the principles of the Paris Agreement, including equity, justice, fairness, and Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR),” she stated. Rizwana Hasan underscored the dire need for debt cancellation to alleviate the financial burden on LDCs. The LDCs cannot afford any further debt while tackling existential challenges, she affirmed. Additionally, she called for the omission of references to "non-transparent carbon markets, as they contradict the spirit of the Paris Agreement." She said as the COP29 negotiations near their conclusion, Bangladesh, along with the LDC group, remains committed to actively engaging to ensure the final NCQG framework upholds equity and justice, aligning with the objectives of the Paris Agreement. Earlier, she met with the European Parliament delegation at the World Climate Conference (COP-29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. There, she made Bangladesh's position and expectations to the EU members. She asked developed countries not to increase debt burden to vulnerable and LDC countries.  

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked the sixth on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 165 at 9am this morning (November 7, 2024). Today’s air was classified as 'unhealthy’ and it continued for the past few days posing a health threat, according to the AQI index. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion, between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. India’s Delhi, Pakistan’s Lahore and Vietnam’s Hanoi occupied the first, second and third spots in the list, with AQI scores of 822, 441 and 175 respectively. Read: Dhaka’s air quality ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’ this morning The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon. As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

Supermarket customers have expressed support for the recent ban on polythene bags, but raised concerns about the higher cost of alternative shopping bags, which they say has increased their expenses. They said the supermarkets should offer cheaper eco-friendly shopping bags or freebie shopping bags for small items.   Supermarket staff also said most of their clients appreciate the move to put an end to the use of polythene bags, but a small number of them show a negative attitude to paying for shopping bags. The no-more-polythene-bag policy is being enforced in super shops from October 1 as part of the government move to stop the use of polythene bags in the country in phases. Visiting Swapno outlet in Shewrapara on Wednesday, it was seen they were offering customers different types of eco-friendly shopping bags at various prices. Shahina Sultana, a customer of the outlet on Wednesday said, “We are appreciating the move to ban polythene bags in supermarkets but the prices of non-polythene bags are high to some extent, which will raise our costs.” Polythene bags banned in superstores from Oct 1: Environment Adviser The supermarkets should also offer freebie shopping bags for small items or cheaper shopping bags, otherwise they would go to grocery shops, said Shahina, who is an employee of non-government organisation RTM International. Another client of the outlet, Pijush Chandra Shil, who is also a private university student, said banning the polythene bags is a right decision. “We’re welcoming it for the sake of protecting the environment,” he said. Manager of the Swapno outlet Shawon Islam said they are offering the shopping bags at various prices from Tk 6 to Tk 16. Though most of the customers purchase the eco-friendly bags with smiling faces, some others show that they are not willing to pay money for shopping bags. “But we’re facing no major problem after implementation of the no-polythene bag policy in their outlet. Now we need to convince a small portion of clients to pay for shopping bags,” he said. Shawon however said they offer freebie paper bags for some items including rice, fish and pulse.  Shadat Rasel, a customer of Agora outlet in Shewrapara, said the polythene bags should have been banned 20-25 years ago as it harms the environment. Environment Advisor Syeda Rizwana urges for using alternatives to polythene shopping bags “It’s a good initiative. We’re ready to pay for shopping bags. We need to clean non-disposable polythene and plastics to protect the environment. Besides, these items are not hygienic,” said Rasel, a private service-holder.   Manager of Agora outlet Delwar Hossain Jibon said it will take time for the customers to become accustomed to paying for shopping bags. “When the ban on the use of polythene bags is enforced everywhere, a positive mindset would be developed among the people to pay for eco-friendly shopping bags,” he said. On September 9, Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said the use of polythene and polypropylene shopping bags would be banned across all superstores in Bangladesh starting October 1. With a view to stop the use of polythene bags completely in the country, the Environment Adviser on Tuesday last said the government will strictly enforce the ban on production, storage, transportation, marketing and use of polythene. A nationwide anti-polythene drive will start in all kitchen markets on November 1 next, she said. Microplastic in Human Blood: Health Risks and Dangers

Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, holds profound significance in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God's command. Muslims worldwide honor this event by performing Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of an animal such as a goat, sheep, cow, or camel. This act is a manifestation of devotion, obedience, and charity. However, with the joy and blessings of Eid-ul-Adha comes the responsibility of maintaining cleanliness, especially after the Qurbani. Proper hygiene is vital to prevent disease spread and to respect the environment and community. Preparations Before Qurbani Choose the Right Location Selecting an appropriate location for the sacrifice is the first step in ensuring cleanliness. Ideally, this should be a clean, designated area that is easy to sanitize post-Qurbani. If you are performing the sacrifice at home, choose an open, ventilated space like a backyard or garden. Avoid places where food is prepared or consumed to prevent contamination. Gather Necessary Supplies Before performing Qurbani, gather all the necessary supplies to facilitate an efficient and hygienic process. These include: - Cleaning supplies: Disinfectants, antiseptic solutions, garbage bags, and cleaning tools. - Protective gear: Gloves, aprons, and masks to maintain personal hygiene. - Containers: Clean containers for storing meat and other parts of the animal. - Tools: Ensure all cutting tools are clean and sanitized before use. Read more: What is ‘Zero Waste’ and why is it important? Inform Neighbors It is courteous to inform your neighbors about your Qurbani plans, especially if you live in a close-knit community. This allows them to make necessary arrangements and ensures cooperation in maintaining cleanliness. Encourage your neighbors to follow similar cleanliness practices to keep the entire community tidy. During Qurbani Maintain Hygiene Maintaining hygiene during the Qurbani process is crucial. Use clean and sanitized tools for the sacrifice to prevent contamination. All individuals involved should wash their hands thoroughly and frequently with soap and water to maintain personal hygiene. Additionally, wearing protective gear such as gloves and aprons is important to prevent direct contact with blood and other fluids, further ensuring a safe and sanitary process. Proper Handling of Waste Proper handling of waste generated during Qurbani is essential to prevent contamination and maintain cleanliness. Here’s how you can manage waste effectively: - Separate the edible parts from the waste immediately after the sacrifice. - Use designated bins for different types of waste. Organic waste, such as blood and internal organs, should be disposed of in specific bins and covered properly. - Avoid throwing waste in open areas or public spaces to prevent attracting pests and causing a nuisance to others. Read more: Plastic Pollution: Harmful effects on human health and environment Immediate Post-Qurbani Clean-up Waste Disposal After Qurbani, the immediate disposal of waste is crucial. Pack the waste securely in heavy-duty garbage bags; double-bagging is recommended to prevent leaks and spills. Dispose of the waste at designated locations or waste collection points rather than leaving the garbage bags outside your home or in public areas. This practice helps maintain cleanliness and prevents the spread of disease. Disinfect the Area Once the waste has been disposed of, the area where the Qurbani was performed needs to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Use disinfectants to clean the site, paying special attention to areas with blood and other residues. Wash the area with plenty of water to ensure no traces of blood or waste remain. Additionally, disinfect all tools and equipment used during the Qurbani to prevent any bacterial or viral contamination, ensuring a hygienic environment. Personal Hygiene After completing the clean-up, it is important to ensure personal hygiene. Thoroughly wash your hands and any exposed skin with soap and water to remove any contaminants. Clean and disinfect any protective gear worn during the process, such as gloves and aprons, to prevent the spread of bacteria. If possible, take a shower to ensure complete cleanliness and to feel refreshed after the task. These steps are essential for maintaining personal health and hygiene.

Zero waste is not just a trend; it is a movement towards sustainability and environmental responsibility. March 30 marks International Zero Waste Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about waste management and sustainable living practices. This concept extends beyond individual actions to encompass a holistic approach involving communities, businesses, and policymakers. What is Zero Waste and Zero Waste Movement? Zero waste is a philosophy aiming to eliminate trash. It is a lifestyle that focuses on minimising waste generation and resource depletion. It advocates redesigning resource life cycles so that all products are reused or recycled, leaving no waste to be sent to landfills or incinerators.  In 2008, the term "Zero Waste" primarily referred to industrial and municipal waste management methods. However, Bea Johnson, a French American adopted this concept for her household. By 2009, she began documenting her journey on the Zero Waste Home blog, gaining recognition when featured in The New York Times in 2010. Read more: Eight ways to overcome waste pollution crisis The zero waste movement promotes sustainable practices, such as reducing consumption, reusing items, recycling materials, composting organic waste, and refusing single-use products. By embracing these principles, individuals, communities, and businesses can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future, where resources are conserved, pollution is reduced, and ecosystems are protected.

The United States has said it looks forward to working with Bangladesh to "enhance economic investment" over the next 50 years and beyond. The visiting US delegation met Salman F Rahman, Private Industry and Investment Adviser to PM Sheikh Hasina, to hear how government and private companies are collaborating. Eileen Laubacher, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for South Asia, US National Security Council (NSC); Michael Schiffer, USAID Assistant Administrator, Bureau for Asia; and Afreen Akhter, US Department of State Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia, are on a three-day visit to Bangladesh. For over 50 years, the US has partnered with the government and the people of Bangladesh, providing over $8 billion to tackle issues like public health, education, energy, environment, food security, natural disasters, and more. Read: Want to create a new chapter in our relations: Foreign Minister says after meeting with US delegation The United States is one of the largest investors in Bangladesh and its largest single country export market, said the US Embassy in Dhaka. "Our leadership from Washington D.C. joined local economic experts to discuss a range of issues impacting the bilateral trade relationship," said the US Embassy. The United States "stands ready" to help Bangladesh create a business climate that attracts more investment from the US. The delegation discussed ways to improve the business environment, making investment in Bangladesh more attractive to American companies. Read: Bangladesh-US relations will be stronger based on environment, climate actions: Environment Minister The three officials, according to the US side, are visiting Bangladesh to discuss with the government of Bangladesh ways to "strengthen diplomatic ties, address challenges, and promote a shared vision for the advancement of mutual interests in the Indo-Pacific region." They also met Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud, Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, civil society representatives, labour leaders, youth activists and those engaged in developing a free and uncensored media. "We discussed with the Foreign Minister how our two countries can work on mutual interests, including economic development, security, refugees, climate, labor, and trade," said the US Embassy in a separate message after the meeting. Bangladesh is an important partner in the Indo-Pacific region, it said. Read more: US Deputy Assistant Secretary meets Bangladeshi civil society members including Zillur and Adilur