Dhaka:Dr. Saimum Parvez, the Prime Minister's Special Assistant on Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, has announced Bangladesh's ambition to lead climate-vulnerable nations in advocating for their rights at the 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Parvez, serving as the Deputy Head of the Bangladesh delegation at COP31, emphasized that Bangladesh's contribution to global carbon emissions is minimal, yet the nation suffers significant losses due to climate change. He highlighted Bangladesh's advocacy for increased funding for adaptation, mitigation, and 'loss and damage' mechanisms, stressing the need for climate finance to be provided as grants rather than loans.
Dr. Parvez outlined Bangladesh's strategies through platforms like the Climate Vulnerable Forum, the Least Developed Countries group, and regional cooperation with Bhutan and Nepal to champion the demands of climate-vulnerable nations. He also highlighted the Prime Minister's participation at COP31 as a testament to Bangladesh's commitment to environmental and climate action, focusing on a 'just energy transition' to renewable energy.
The government has initiated projects such as planting 25 crore trees and excavating or re-excavating 20,000 kilometers of canals to enhance climate resilience. Emphasizing renewable energy, waste management, and eco-friendly industries, Dr. Parvez noted Bangladesh's progress in disaster management and climate adaptation as a model for other nations.
During a meeting with Turkey's First Lady, the Bangladeshi delegation proposed expanding jute and eco-friendly alternatives to plastic in the international market, with discussions leading to potential technical cooperation and plans for a Bangladeshi pavilion to promote these products.
Dr. Parvez also discussed Bangladesh's efforts to establish a national carbon market and carbon registry to secure climate finance. He expressed the nation's aspiration to be recognized globally not only as affected by climate change but as a resilient, innovation-driven country. Through proactive diplomacy at COP31, Bangladesh hopes to secure fair access to climate finance and support while advocating for climate-vulnerable nations.