One Year of Transformation: Discover the Ministry of Environment’s Incredible Milestones!

DHAKA, Aug 8, 2025 (BSS) – After the vibrant student-led July-August Uprising of 2024, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has made impressive progress under adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan. This reflects a strong commitment to tackling pollution and conserving natural resources.

One major move was the nationwide crackdown on banned polythene bags, starting in November 2024. The ministry launched 748 mobile courts, collecting Taka 87.6 lakh from 1,397 violators. Over 292 metric tons of polythene were seized, and one person received a one-month prison sentence. They also disconnected power to seven illegal factories.

The Bangladesh Secretariat is moving toward being plastic-free by implementing a phased ban on 17 single-use plastic items. Stricter measures are expected soon. On Saint Martin’s Island, new rules aim to limit plastic waste and support sustainable tourism. The ministry is working to create alternative livelihoods for the island’s residents, enhancing local ecosystems.

To combat land encroachment, the ministry is compiling a list of illegal encroachers across 19 districts and starting recovery efforts. Additionally, illegal forest leases are being canceled to protect natural resources.

Exciting developments include the Madhupur Shal Forest Restoration Project, which began afforestation on 6,610 acres and restoration on another 1,111 acres. A Taka 14.76 crore initiative aims to restore elephant habitats in the Chunati Forest, successfully recovering over 5,000 acres as of June 2025.

Urban pollution is also a focus. The ministry announced revisions to the Noise Pollution (Control) Rules, designating Shahjalal International Airport as a silent zone. In the past year, 484 mobile courts dealt with noise violations, collecting Taka 15.5 lakh in fines and seizing 1,644 illegal horns.

For air quality, 3,063 cases were filed against polluting entities, amassing Taka 257.5 crore in fines, while 484 brick kilns were closed to reduce emissions.

To enhance climate resilience, 41 new projects under the Climate Change Trust Fund, with a budget of Taka 250 crore, focus on innovative solutions, like biodiversity conservation and river re-excavation.

Moreover, the ministry expanded the Department of Environment (DoE) by creating 3,569 new positions and proposed a dedicated BCS (Environment and Forest) cadre. In the last year, they made 26 new appointments and promoted 25 staff members.

Technological advancements have also played a significant role. The ministry launched automated environmental monitoring software for industries and reduced import duties on air purifiers from 25% to 10% to encourage their use.

These initiatives not only aim to protect the environment but also improve the quality of life for millions in Bangladesh. With a focus on sustainable practices, the ministry is setting a new standard for environmental protection that could significantly mitigate climate change impacts and enhance biodiversity.

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