Dhaka: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today emphasized the potential for Bangladesh and China to collaborate effectively in air quality management and sustainable development by learning from each other's policies, innovations, and community-driven approaches.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the adviser highlighted the importance of sharing comprehensive information on common rivers and fostering stronger people-to-people connections to achieve mutual goals. Rizwana made these remarks at a seminar titled "Analysis of Environmental Sustainable Development and Management in China and Bangladesh," organized by the Center for China Studies, University of Dhaka, at the virtual classroom of the Vice Chancellor Suite.
Rizwana stressed the importance of honesty in sustainable development efforts, noting that decades of activism are necessary to protect the environment. She cautioned against attempting to outpace nature, advocating instead for the redesign of development patterns and accountability for polluters. She criticized practices such as destroying rivers for the leather industry or flattening hills for unregulated development.
The adviser also emphasized that technological advancements should respect the fundamental principles of nature, urging a focus on managing development activities sustainably rather than attempting to manage nature itself. Additionally, she called on Dhaka University authorities to phase out single-use plastics on campus to demonstrate leadership in sustainability.
The seminar was attended by notable figures, including Yao Wen, Ambassador of China to Bangladesh, and Prof. Niaz Ahmed Khan, Vice Chancellor of Dhaka University, who spoke as special guests. Dr. Li Fengting, Professor at Tongji University and Director of the UNEP-Tongji Environmental Innovation Cooperation Center, presented a keynote paper, and Professor Shamsad Mortuza, Director of the Office of International Affairs, shared his insights.
The event concluded with a dynamic question-and-answer session, reflecting the keen interest of students and researchers in advancing sustainable environmental management.