Hong Kong:State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam has emphasized the importance of enhancing green finance and incorporating technology to safeguard the environment. Speaking at a view-exchange meeting with the Bangladeshi diaspora, business community, and leaders of the BNP in Hong Kong, he reaffirmed the government's dedication to environmental and ecosystem protection.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Faridul Islam highlighted the need to leverage opportunities in green finance, eco-friendly technologies, and nature-based solutions to tackle pollution, conserve forests, and promote renewable energy. He also inaugurated the 'Sundarban Lounge' at the Bangladesh Consulate during his visit and is set to participate in 'Eco Expo Asia 2026' and the 'Belt and Road Green Innovation Conference.'
The state minister noted significant progress in environmental conservation, including the planting of approximately 35.4 million trees, with ongoing monitoring to ensure their protection. He stressed the importance of preventing hill cutting and encroachment on forest lands and recovering illegally occupied forest areas. Additionally, he addressed pollution issues in the Buriganga, Turag, and Dhaleshwari rivers, noting the influx of pollutants from 424 distinct points.
Faridul Islam also advocated for the use of concrete blocks as an alternative to traditional bricks and underscored the potential of carbon credits and nature-based solutions. Discussions included enhancing Mongla Port's business capacity, expanding solar energy use, promoting green finance, and increasing remittances. Other topics covered were the planting of 250 million trees, the Rampal Thermal Power Plant, land settlement for the landless in Noakhali, land challenges with the Forest Department, and cleanliness of the Sadarghat area. The emphasis was on transforming cleanliness efforts into a social movement.
Dr. Shah Mohammad Tanvir Mansur, Consul General of Bangladesh in Hong Kong, along with consulate officials and other stakeholders, were also present at the meeting.