Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, on Monday called for enhanced cooperation between Bangladesh and China in addressing environmental challenges.
Speaking at a seminar titled "Analysis of Environmental Sustainable Development and Management in China and Bangladesh," she highlighted the potential for both nations to exchange knowledge and innovations in air quality management and sustainable development.
The seminar, organized by the Center for China Studies, University of Dhaka, took place at the virtual classroom of the Vice Chancellor Suite. Rizwana emphasized the importance of transparent information-sharing on shared rivers and fostering people-to-people connections to achieve shared environmental goals.
"Decades of activism are needed to protect the environment. We cannot win a race against nature; instead, we need to redesign development patterns and hold polluters accountable," Rizwana stated. She criticized practices like river destruction for industrial purposes and hill flattening for unregulated development, urging policymakers to prioritize sustainable practices.
The adviser also stressed that technological advancements must align with nature's principles and called for sustainable management of development activities rather than efforts to "manage nature." She urged Dhaka University authorities to eliminate single-use plastics on campus, positioning the university as a leader in sustainability initiatives.
Special guests at the seminar included Yao Wen, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, and Dhaka University Vice Chancellor Prof. Niaz Ahmed Khan. Dr. Li Fengting, Professor at Tongji University and Director of the UNEP-Tongji Environmental Innovation Cooperation Center, presented the keynote address.
Professor Shamsad Mortuza, Director of the Office of International Affairs, also shared his perspectives, contributing to the event's dynamic discussions.
The seminar concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session, reflecting the enthusiasm of students and researchers for advancing sustainable environmental management through collaboration and innovation.
