Dhaka:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman announced Bangladesh's commitment to establishing a trillion-dollar, climate-resilient, and sustainable economy, emphasizing the necessity of aligning economic growth with environmental preservation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister articulated this vision while addressing the High-Level Segment of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP31), highlighting Bangladesh's minimal contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions, which is less than 0.5 percent. Despite the challenges posed by climate change, Bangladesh remains resolute in its pursuit of a sustainable economic future.
The government is targeting 20 percent of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2030, supporting the Paris Agreement and aiming for net-zero emissions. This includes developing 4,000 megawatts of solar power and promoting waste-to-energy initiatives. Additionally, Bangladesh is fostering green industrialization with nearly 300 LEED-certified garment factories and advancing eco-friendly transportation, including electric vehicles.
The Prime Minister also announced plans to plant 250 million trees over the next five years and undertake significant environmental projects such as digging 20,000 kilometers of rivers and canals. Efforts are being made to restore mangroves on reclaimed coastal lands to enhance climate resilience.
Highlighting the inadequacies of the global climate finance system, the Prime Minister stressed the need for grants instead of loans for climate-vulnerable countries and called for five urgent actions, including allocating 50 percent of international climate finance to adaptation and introducing debt-relief measures.
Tarique Rahman also urged for a fair energy transition and emphasized the importance of involving women and young people in climate action. He expressed hope for meaningful outcomes from COP31, underscoring the need to turn commitments into action and foster global solidarity for a sustainable future.