“Youth Must Unite to Tackle Climate Risks”—Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan

Dhaka, 31 May 2025: Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, has urged young people to work collectively to address the risks posed by climate change. She stated, “Youth must commit themselves to the nation by staying away from greed, lust for power, financial irregularities, and corruption.”

She made these remarks while addressing the dialogue titled “Manifesto Talk: Youth, Environment and Climate” held today (Saturday) at the Department of Environment in Agargaon, Dhaka, where she formally launched the Youth Climate Coalition.

Speaking on air pollution, the Advisor said the government has initiated three major measures to tackle the issue: phasing out old buses, introducing electric vehicles, and banning the establishment of new brick kilns around Dhaka.

On development, she emphasized, “We want progress, but not at the cost of nature. Filling up water bodies, hill cutting, and neglecting waste management cannot be allowed. Development must be planned with respect for nature at its core.”

Highlighting citizen responsibility in curbing polythene use, she said, “Protecting the environment is not solely the government’s responsibility—it’s everyone’s democratic duty. Carry jute or cloth bags when you go shopping.”

Regarding waste management, the Advisor proposed three model projects for Dhaka North and South City Corporations. “Waste must be managed sustainably—using biodegradable and recyclable methods. Single-use plastics must be banned urgently,” she said.

Referring to the fires at the Aminbazar and Matuail landfills, she warned that they pose serious health hazards to nearby residents and have become a cause of lung cancer. “This issue needs immediate resolution,” she added.

On tree conservation, she stressed, “Old trees must not be cut in the name of road expansion. Development must take place while preserving trees.” She noted that the Forest Department and Public Works Department are working together to redesign the National Museum to protect the existing trees—a hopeful sign.

She also informed that Eucalyptus and Akashmoni trees have been banned due to their harmful environmental effects, and emphasis is now on planting eco-friendly species.

Among others, Mohammad Azaz, Administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation, Ziaul Haque, Director of the Department of Environment, and Dr. Ahmad Kamruzzaman Majumder, Professor at Stamford University, also spoke at the event.

Over 300 youth climate activists participated in the dialogue. Senior leaders of various political parties also took part and presented their respective parties’ positions on climate and environmental issues. They assured that climate change and environmental protection would be given priority in their upcoming election manifestos.

The Manifesto Talk was jointly organized by 16 youth-led organizations involved in climate activism under the newly formed Youth Climate Coalition.