Dhaka: Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today urged the youth to stay away from greed, lust for power, financial irregularities, and corruption, and to work instead for the betterment of the country. 'The youth must move away from greed, power, lust, financial irregularities, corruption, and work for the country,' she said.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Hasan was speaking as the chief guest at a discussion titled 'Manifesto Talk: Youth, Environment and Climate', held at the Environment Department in Agargaon. During the event, she also inaugurated the Youth Climate Coalition, a platform formed by 16 youth-led organizations engaged in climate action.
Underlining the importance of collective efforts in addressing climate change, Hasan stated, 'The youth must work together to tackle the risks posed by climate change.' She highlighted the government's initiatives to address air pollution, including the removal of old buses, the introduction of electric vehicles, and a ban on establishing new brick kilns around Dhaka.
Hasan emphasized the need to balance development with environmental conservation, stating, 'We want development, but not by destroying nature. Wetland filling, hill cutting, and negligence in waste management cannot be allowed anymore, and development must be planned in line with nature.'
She further noted the responsibility of citizens in reducing the use of polythene, advocating for the use of jute or cloth bags. Hasan stressed that environmental protection is a shared responsibility, saying, 'Environmental protection is a democratic responsibility, not an individual one.'
The adviser proposed three model projects on waste management for Dhaka North and South City Corporations, focusing on sustainable, biodegradable, and recyclable waste management practices. She called for a ban on single-use plastics without delay.
Referring to recent fires at landfill sites in Aminbazar and Matuail, Hasan warned of the public health risks, stating, 'Such fires are increasing the risk of lung cancer among nearby residents. This issue must be resolved urgently.'
Hasan also urged against cutting down old trees for road expansion, emphasizing that development should be planned while preserving trees. She mentioned that the Forest Department and the Public Works Department are collaborating to revise the museum design to protect existing trees.
The event was attended by North City Corporation Administrator Mohammad Azaz, Environment Department Director Ziaul Haque, Stamford University Professor Dr. Ahmad Kamruzzaman Majumder, and over 300 young climate activists. Leaders from various political parties participated, expressing their commitment to prioritizing climate and environmental issues in their upcoming election manifestos.