“BNP Sets Green Agenda: Climate and Environmental Protection at the Forefront of Election Manifesto”

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is planning to focus heavily on climate change and environmental issues in its upcoming election manifesto. Dr. Mahdi Amin, an adviser to the party’s acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, expressed this commitment during a discussion titled “Manifesto Talk: Youth, Environment, and Climate.” This event was held at the Department of Environment office in Agargaon.

Dr. Amin emphasized that the party will avoid including any proposals in its manifesto that might harm the environment in the name of development. He mentioned the need to revive the green initiatives started by the late President Ziaur Rahman and noted that the BNP has begun tree-planting programs across the country to promote greenery.

He criticized previous governments for compromising the environment under the guise of mega-projects and alleged significant financial mismanagement in these initiatives. He pointed out that many projects lacked thorough feasibility studies to assess their environmental impact.

During the discussion, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, an adviser for the Ministry of Forest, Environment, and Climate Affairs, highlighted the government’s efforts to improve environmental protections. She outlined measures aimed at reducing air pollution and preventing river encroachment. She stressed the importance of political cooperation in addressing these pressing issues.

Leaders from various political parties encouraged youth participation in combating climate change. They acknowledged that raising awareness among young people is crucial for tackling this crisis. The speakers called for environmental concerns to be prioritized in political manifestos.

Md. Shamsuddoha, CEO of the Center for Participatory Research and Development, shed light on past misuses of funds intended for climate change efforts, alleging corruption during previous administrations. According to him, much of the money meant for environmental initiatives was misallocated to local government projects instead.

As environmental discussions gain momentum globally, the emphasis on transparency in fund utilization becomes more vital. Recent surveys show that over 70% of young people in Bangladesh are concerned about climate change, indicating that political parties must heed these sentiments in their agendas.

Given the urgency of environmental issues, the BNP’s focus could resonate well with voters seeking significant action on climate change. The event was organized by 15 environmental groups, including the Sachetan Foundation and the Human Safety Foundation, showcasing a collective effort toward environmental sustainability.

For further details on national environmental policies, you can check the [United Nations Environment Programme](https://www.unep.org). This source offers a broader view of ongoing global initiatives related to climate change and conservation.

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