Antalya:Bangladesh is advocating for low-interest long-term financing and fair trade benefits to support its green industrialisation efforts, as highlighted by Dr. Saimum Parvez, Prime Minister's Special Assistant on Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. Speaking at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye, Dr. Parvez emphasized the importance of supportive trade policies for least developed and vulnerable countries.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Parvez pointed out Bangladesh's achievements in green industrialisation, boasting over 290 LEED-certified garment factories, with more than 120 receiving Platinum ratings. He also noted the country's industrial facilities' capability of generating over 600 megawatts of rooftop solar capacity.
The government's plans include generating 10,000 megawatts of solar power by 2030 and meeting 20 percent of electricity demand from renewable sources, with an aim to increase this to 30 percent by 2040. To support these initiatives, Bangladesh has removed duties and taxes on solar equipment, facilitated low-cost financing, and ensured fair prices for surplus rooftop electricity supplied to the national grid.
Dr. Parvez also discussed initiatives to establish a national carbon market, plant 250 million trees, and restore 20,000 kilometers of rivers and canals. He urged developed countries to provide adequate time and support for developing nations to meet new environmental standards, particularly as Bangladesh aims to graduate from the LDC category by 2029. He emphasized that green industries, from jute to electric vehicles, would drive the country's next growth phase.