Dhaka: State Minister for Environment, Forests and Climate Change Shaikh Faridul Islam emphasized the importance of assessing health consequences alongside environmental impacts for development projects to safeguard public health and well-being. During a discussion titled 'Waste-Free Bangladesh: Our Responsibility', organized by the Forum of Environmental Journalists of Bangladesh (FEJB) at the Jatiya Press Club, he reiterated the necessity of adopting environmentally friendly waste-management practices to prevent pollution of rivers, soil, and air.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Faridul urged journalists to increase reporting on environmental conservation and to highlight deficiencies in government initiatives. He noted that the government is actively pursuing nature-based and environmentally friendly solutions to various issues, which include plans to plant 25 crore trees, excavate 20,000 kilometers of canals, and introduce electric buses.
The state minister pointed out that industrial factories discharge waste at 425 points into the five rivers surrounding Dhaka, stressing the need to halt this practice and encouraging journalists to contribute to this effort. He also emphasized the importance of prompt road repairs following excavation to help reduce air pollution in the capital.
The meeting advocated for a healthy and habitable Bangladesh through effective waste management and the replenishment of natural resources, as noted in a press release. Keynote speaker Zakir Hossain Khan, managing director of Change Initiative, presented virtually, showcasing the growing garbage issue in various sectors nationwide and suggesting a move towards zero waste through recycling, recovery, and resource regeneration under a circular economy model.
Forum General Secretary and Jatiya Press Club President Hasan Hafiz, along with Forum Executive Member and Jatiya Press Club General Secretary Ayub Bhuiyan, participated in the discussion, which was chaired by Forum President Mostafa Kamal Majumdar.