Dhaka: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo emphasized the crucial nature of today's actions in combating the climate crisis to secure a safer future. He made these remarks while serving as the chief guest at the 'World Environment Day and Environment Fair 2026 Closing Ceremony and Award Distribution' event held at the Department of Environment (DoE) auditorium in Agargaon, Dhaka.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Mintoo highlighted the need for immediate and effective measures to tackle the increasing threats posed by climate change. He stressed that sustainable development can only be achieved by fostering a green economy that integrates environmental protection, social development, and economic progress. An environmentally-friendly economy, he stated, would be pivotal in addressing the sustainable development challenges of the 21st century. Mintoo elaborated that sustainable development goals could be met through minimal carbon emissions, efficient resource utilization, pollution-free production systems, and the creation of green jobs.
The minister pointed out that global warming is leading to more frequent and severe natural disasters, such as sea level rises, salinity in coastal regions, cyclones, tidal waves, flash floods, irregular rainfall, droughts, and heatwaves. These threats pose significant challenges for coastal and low-lying nations like Bangladesh. To mitigate these impacts, the government has developed the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023-2050. Additionally, a target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions has been set through the formulation of the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0).
Minister Mintoo further mentioned that the government is working on a long-term low-emission development strategy to combat climate risks and enhance international climate finance and partnerships. He underscored the interconnection between environmental issues and sustainable development goals, asserting that environmental protection should be integrated into all development initiatives. He proposed that building a green, safe, and livable Bangladesh is achievable with the active participation of both the public and the government.
Highlighting the importance of nurturing environmental awareness in future generations, Mintoo advocated for educating children and adolescents on the love for nature, reducing polythene use, preventing noise pollution, conserving electricity and water, and protecting trees and biodiversity. He also congratulated the winners of various competitions organized for World Environment Day 2026 and recognized the awardees for the best stalls at the Environment Fair. Speaking as a special guest, Environment Secretary (in charge) Dr Fahmida Khanam remarked on the stark reality of climate change, citing the recent catastrophic flood in Nepal caused by glacier melt due to rising global temperatures. She noted the increasing prevalence of flash floods in Bangladesh, which are now affecting not only low-lying areas but also hilly regions.
The ceremony, presided over by DoE Director General Dr Md. Lutfor Rahman, was attended by senior ministry and DoE officials, competition winners and their guardians, representatives from civil society, and journalists.