Dhaka: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today emphasized the need for political parties to include a clear roadmap and implementation plan for environmental protection in their election manifestos. She stressed the importance of holding the elected government accountable for preventing environmental pollution, particularly urging the youth to play an active role in this process.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizwana Hasan made these remarks at an event titled 'Road to Green Manifesto: Dialogue with Political Parties,' organized by the non-profit organization Brighters at the Department of Environment (DoE) in Agargaon, Dhaka. She noted that while the interim government initiated efforts to address environmental issues, it is crucial for the next elected government to continue these efforts to prevent pollution.
She highlighted that approximately 13 percent of air pollution originates from brick kilns, with road dust, open construction materials, and waste burning also contributing significantly to air pollution. Rizwana Hasan mentioned that a policy has been created to stop black smoke emissions from vehicles, but implementation is necessary. She also drew attention to Savar being declared a 'degraded airshed' and the legal challenges faced in efforts to shut down brick kilns.
The adviser noted that Dhaka experienced fewer days of peak air pollution this year compared to previous years. She also mentioned the approval of a project by the ECNEC to enhance the Eastern Refinery's capacity to combat air pollution. Additionally, she pointed out that the Noise Pollution Regulations 2025 have been prepared, and separate rules have been established for the conservation of forests and wildlife.
Addressing the youth, Rizwana Hasan encouraged perseverance and systematic progress in environmental efforts. The program, moderated by Brighters' chair Fariha Amir, also featured speeches by CEGIS Executive Director Malik Fida A Khan, DNCC Administrator Md Azad, event convener Habibur Rahman, Md. Shamsuddoha, BNP's Israfil Khasru, Islami Andolan's Fazle Bari Masud, and NCP's Ariful Islam Adib and Monira Sharmin. Brighters founder and director Saidur Rahman delivered a PowerPoint presentation.