Minister for Environment, Forests and Climate Change Mohammad Shahab Uddin has said that the government is committed to provide a pollution free environment. In his speech, the Minister gave strict instructions to the officials of the Department of Environment to act responsibly. For this he sought the cooperation of the people. He appealed to the people to plant as many trees as possible according to their ability. He said, with the joint efforts of all, we will be able to create a clean living environment.
He was speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony and award distribution ceremony of World Environment Day and Environment Fair 2022 at the auditorium of the Department of Environment on Thursday.
The Environment Minister said monitoring and enforcement activities have been intensified to ensure environmental protection through reduction of water pollution, air pollution, soil pollution and noise pollution. It is being implemented by formulating guidelines to prevent air pollution. Initiatives have been taken to increase the use of eco-friendly block bricks instead of burnt bricks. An integrated project on noise pollution control is being implemented. A 10-year action plan has already been adopted for the management of plastic waste across the country and a three-year special program has been adopted to stop the use of disposable plastics in coastal areas.
The environment minister said legal action was being taken against those who cut down hills and mounds to protect the environment. Rules have been enacted to control e-waste and medical waste. Liquid waste emitting industries are being forced to set up liquid waste treatment systems and implement zero discharge plans. Trees are being planted on a large scale across the country to maintain the balance of the environment.
Action taken to address the risks of climate change in Bangladesh has been strengthened. The Minister said that the active participation of the people of all walks of life along with the government is highly desirable for the development of quality of environment and success in tree planting.
Former Vice Chancellor of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Professor Pran Gopal Dutta, Distinguished Philo of Global Center on Adaptation Abul Kalam Azad and Chairman of PKSF Dr. Kazi Khadukjam were present as special guests at the meeting chaired by Director General of Environment Department Dr Abdul Hamid.
On the occasion, the minister distributed prizes among the winners of Children's and Adolescent Painting, Inter-University Debate and Slogan Competition and representatives of the best stalls participating in the Environment Fair as part of the World Environment Day 2022 celebrations.
