Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, has emphasised the government's commitment to addressing air pollution through specific measures.
"The government is taking steps such as controlling road dust and waste burning to reduce public suffering from air pollution," she said. "However, implementing long-term solutions like standardising fuel and modernising refineries requires significant investment and time." She made these remarks while speaking at a seminar titled "Air Quality Research and Environmental Policy Discussion" held at the Faculty of Science, Dhaka University and organised by the U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh.
Highlighting the gravity of air pollution in Bangladesh, she said that this is the first time in the country's history that the cabinet has discussed air pollution, signifying the importance attached to this issue. She outlined ongoing efforts and future plans to mitigate air pollution in the country.
The seminar was attended by prominent figures, including Prof Dr Sayema Haque Bidisha, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of Dhaka University; Prof Dr Abdus Salam, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Dhaka University; and Amy Cass, Economic Officer at the US Embassy in Dhaka.
The Adviser called for behavioural changes, including the use of masks and responsible waste disposal, while acknowledging multiple contributors to air pollution, such as road dust, waste burning, and outdated vehicles. She announced plans to cover Dhaka's uncovered road dividers with grass during the monsoon and mentioned the formation of a task force and action groups to address specific challenges, such as repairing broken roads to prevent dust pollution.
Global experts including Prof. Dr James J Schauer from the University of Wisconsin-Madison; Prof Dr Benjamin de Foy from Saint Louis University; and Prof Dr Jill Baumgartner from McGill University presented papers with insights into air quality management and innovative approaches to tackling urban and industrial air pollution.
Research findings presented by Dr Zahidul Quayyum (BRAC University), Dr Ahmed Kamruzzaman Mazumder (Stamford University), Samiha Nahian (Dhaka University), Shahid Uz Zaman (BUET), and Dr Ziaul Haque (Department of Environment) provided an in-depth analysis of air quality trends in Bangladesh and proposed actionable recommendations.
The event also explored the Bangladesh National Air Quality Management Plan, focusing on implementing effective solutions to improve air quality across the nation.
