Dhaka:Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo emphasized the necessity for Bangladesh to enhance its economic resilience to effectively address the impacts of climate change.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Mintoo highlighted that climate change has become a significant challenge affecting the country's economy, agriculture, and industry. He shared these insights while speaking as the chief guest at the "Green Dialogue Climate Change and Economic Restructuring" event, organized by Bangla Daily Bonik Barta at Hotel Sonargaon in the capital.
Minister Mintoo pointed out that rising temperatures, floods, droughts, and salinity are adversely impacting productivity and increasing economic risks. He stressed the importance of building a climate-resilient economy, preparing in advance, and implementing adaptation and preventive measures to mitigate these challenges.
Discussing Bangladesh's economic landscape, Mintoo noted the country is facing issues such as slowing growth, inflation, investment constraints, and energy sector pressure. The World Bank's updated forecast suggests that Bangladesh's economic growth could reach 3.4 percent in the 2025-26 fiscal year, signaling a need for strengthened economic resilience amid climate-related pressures.
The minister also emphasized the critical role of agriculture in Bangladesh's food security, rural employment, and poverty reduction. He acknowledged that despite improvements in irrigation, agriculture remains highly vulnerable to weather conditions, necessitating timely adaptation strategies.
The event featured prominent speakers like Prime Minister's Special Assistant Dr Md Saimum Parvez, lawmakers, and industry leaders. Discussions centered on environmentally friendly industrialization, renewable energy expansion, energy efficiency, climate financing, and sustainable agriculture.
HAMS Garments Limited and Infrastructure Development Company Limited (IDCOL) were recognized for their contributions to environmentally friendly industrialization and climate financing, respectively. Over 400 representatives from various sectors attended the event, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing climate change impacts.