Rizwana Calls for Government Leadership in Bangladesh’s Renewable Energy Revolution | Breaking News

Bangladesh’s Path to Renewable Energy Leadership

On October 18, 2025, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the Adviser on Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, shared a vision for Bangladesh at an international conference. She stressed that all government agencies must shift to renewable energy in the next two to three years. This move can set a powerful example for the country.

Rizwana highlighted the importance of responsible consumption alongside production. In her view, adopting sustainable practices across all sectors can significantly impact climate change.

At the conference titled “Road to COP30: How Can National Interests Be Aligned with Global Climate Goals?”, she pointed out that the Department of Environment (DoE), with the World Bank’s help, is creating green office complexes. These structures aim to promote energy efficiency and serve as models for eco-friendly buildings.

Rizwana raised a critical concern about global climate finance. She mentioned that the issues of double counting and poor governance have eroded trust, slowing down the flow of essential support for climate adaptation. “Technology transfer alone won’t solve the emissions problem if major economies keep increasing their outputs,” she cautioned.

Bangladesh must continue to protect its interests while addressing efficiency in economic activities and livelihoods. Rizwana mentioned the country’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), which illustrates broad involvement from various ministries and agencies.

She urged the DoE to develop a detailed work plan that lays out specific emission reduction strategies for transport, agriculture, and industry. Clear timelines and measurable actions are necessary for progress.

Rizwana also discussed the newly formed Bangladesh Climate Development Partnership (BCDP), which includes working groups that integrate input from civil society and academia to ensure well-informed policies and technical guidance.

The environmental impact of traditional brick kilns is another pressing issue. Rizwana advocated for alternative building materials to reduce carbon emissions. A notable suggestion was using dredged river sediment instead of fertile topsoil for brick production, which not only preserves farmland but also cuts down on environmental damage.

Adaptation strategies are vital, especially for coastal regions vulnerable to climate change. Rizwana emphasized coastal afforestation, rainwater harvesting, and affordable desalination technologies to enhance resilience in these areas.

Recent studies show that Bangladesh is already experiencing the effects of climate change, with increased flooding and sea-level rise affecting millions. An International Organization for Migration report estimates that, by 2050, 13 million people could be displaced due to these changes.

At the conference, several experts voiced their thoughts. Dr. Ainun Nishat from BRAC University noted the urgency of collective actions, while representatives from various developmental organizations shared their commitment to supporting Bangladesh.

In conclusion, if Bangladesh leads in renewable energy, it can inspire others and set a standard in the global fight against climate change. This commitment is not just about changing how we produce energy; it’s about changing how we live.

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