Our modern lives prioritize convenience, often at the expense of the environment. We tend to choose cheap, disposable items instead of long-lasting options, even though this mindset creates more waste. This pattern is fueled by a desire for instant gratification, pushing us to overlook the serious environmental consequences of our choices. Today, we see a rush for mass-produced goods, but few reflect on how these choices impact the planet.
In Bangladesh, a similar story unfolds. The government heavily subsidizes fossil fuels like coal and oil. While this keeps energy prices low, it locks the country into reliance on non-renewable resources, delaying a shift to cleaner alternatives. The urge to attract foreign investment often leads to lax regulations, which can worsen pollution and harmful practices. For example, brick kilns in the country are notorious for their high emissions but frequently avoid using cleaner technologies.
Worryingly, outdated land policies allow agricultural and forest land to be taken for industrial development. This not only displaces local communities but also damages ecosystems. Indigenous groups, in particular, suffer significant losses—losing land and livelihoods while bearing the brunt of environmental damage.
Historically, indigenous peoples have acted as protectors of the land. The Maori in New Zealand view caring for their environment as a sacred duty, while in Bolivia, traditional land management leads to lower deforestation rates than commercial logging. The Munda people in Bangladesh have also established nature-friendly methods to keep the Sundarbans intact, demonstrating effective, sustainable practices.
Despite their deep connection to nature, indigenous communities are among those most impacted by climate change, facing issues like rising sea levels and extreme weather. These communities possess valuable knowledge that could tackle environmental problems, but their solutions are often disregarded in favor of high-tech, industrial approaches. According to the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate, adopting bold climate measures could yield up to $26 trillion in global economic benefits by 2030, with job creation and health improvements. However, the allure of immediate rewards often overshadows the long-term benefits of sustainability.
We must shift from a “take, make, dispose” mindset to a circular economy focused on recycling and reusing materials. Countries like those in the European Union are setting ambitious goals for climate neutrality, creating jobs while investing in sustainable technologies. Globally, there’s a growing recognition of indigenous values in policy-making—New Zealand incorporates Maori perspectives, Ecuador protects nature’s rights in its constitution, and Canada continues to work on reconciliation with indigenous communities. Yet, political hurdles often impede this progress.
Bangladesh, a nation vulnerable to climate change, is home to about 1.6 million indigenous people who often inhabit ecologically rich areas. By integrating indigenous wisdom into national policies and recognizing these communities as essential partners, Bangladesh could set an example of development that balances growth with social and environmental justice. Such an approach could not only benefit local ecosystems but also elevate Bangladesh’s global standing in environmental leadership. The need to challenge the illusions of progress is urgent; it’s time to prioritize both the planet and the People of Nature, ensuring justice for all.
Noshin Yoshi holds a bachelor’s degree in economics.
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