Why Government Institutions Should Spearhead the Shift to Renewable Energy: Insights from an Environmental Advisor | Energy Bangla

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, an adviser in the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Water Resources, recently spoke about a significant shift toward renewable energy in Bangladesh. She believes that within the next two to three years, all government institutions should transition to sustainable energy sources. Hasan emphasized that government agencies must lead this effort to foster a greener future.

Her comments were made at an international conference titled “Road to COP30: How Can National Interests Be Aligned with Global Climate Goals?” held at the BRAC Center Inn in Dhaka. The focus was on finding effective climate solutions, under the theme “A World Beyond Crisis: Climate Solutions That Work.”

Hasan stressed the need for sustainable practices across all sectors. She revealed that the Department of Environment, with assistance from the World Bank, is developing eco-friendly office buildings. They are also working with architects to design energy-efficient structures. However, she warned that merely transferring technology would not resolve the challenges.

One of the pressing issues she noted is the problem of double-counting in climate finance, which hampers trust and slows down support for adaptation strategies. For Bangladesh, it’s crucial to protect national interests and the livelihoods of its people. She commended the government’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which show the involvement of various ministries.

Hasan urged the Department of Environment to create a well-defined action plan with timelines for cutting emissions in transport, agriculture, and industry sectors. Under the new Bangladesh Climate Development Partnership (BCDP), four working groups will include members from civil society and academia to ensure effective policy support.

She called attention to environmental harm from brick kilns, recommending alternative materials that lower carbon emissions and preserve agricultural land. For instance, using dredged river silt instead of topsoil could be a viable solution.

The importance of adaptation measures was also highlighted. Coastal afforestation, rainwater harvesting, and low-cost technologies to remove salinity are vital for protecting Bangladesh’s vulnerable coastal areas. Hasan urged development partners to enhance financial and technological support for local climate solutions.

Recent surveys show that climate change is a top concern for many Bangladeshis, who face direct impacts such as flooding and rising sea levels. This shared anxiety reflects a growing urgency for effective governmental action. With the right strategies in place, experts believe Bangladesh can lead by example in the global battle against climate change.

The discussion was chaired by Khushi Kabir, a prominent figure in the Centre for Policy Dialogue. Environmental expert Dr. Ainun Nishat and representatives from various development partners also participated in this important conversation.



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