[🇧🇩] Save the Rivers/Forests/Hills-----Save the Environment

[Saif]

For a climate-resilient urban future, we need empowered women

Climate change disproportionately affects women and many migrate to cities.

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For a climate-resilient urban future, we need empowered women

Women are more likely to migrate than men due to the loss of livelihoods because of climate change. FILE PHOTO: RAJIB RAIHAN

Bangladesh, as a low-lying deltaic country with a high-density population of over 17 crore, faces severe impacts of climate change such as rising sea levels, increased flooding, and more frequent natural disasters. These challenges disproportionately affect women, who comprise over half of the population and face compounded vulnerabilities due to poverty, gender inequality, and limited resources.

Women are generally more vulnerable to climate change than men because they make up the majority of Bangladesh's poor, with over 50 percent of women living below the national poverty line. Moreover, their vulnerability is exacerbated due to existing gender inequalities and socioeconomic factors. Women are particularly impacted in urban slums and informal settlements, where inadequate infrastructure, poor sanitation, and lack of essential services exacerbate their struggles.

According to certain studies, women are more likely to migrate than men due to the loss of livelihoods, food insecurity, and lack of adaptation options in their villages. The communities migrate to urban settlements, and this is not new: a major influx occurred after the cyclones in 1970 and 1991, Cyclone Sidr in 2007, Cyclone Aila in 2009, and post floods. Yet, we struggle to find a clear plan for developing infrastructures and services in the cities/urban settings, which is why we find inadequate temporary shelters in the cities.

Climate change drives migration from rural to urban areas, stressing urban resources and infrastructure. This scenario is true not only in Dhaka but also in Chattogram, Khulna and Gazipur, to name a few cities. Women, often engaged in low-wage labour, face wage discrimination, health issues, malnutrition, and inadequate access to healthcare, particularly during pregnancy. The lack of safe water, sanitation, and affordable menstrual hygiene products further compounds their difficulties. Men in these settings also suffer from poor mental health, malnutrition, and drug addiction, indirectly impacting women's burdens.

On a strategic level, decision-makers and political experts have to pay attention to experts who have suggested that to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, we have to put an end to new fossil fuel projects. Reports have highlighted that the fossil fuel industry is exploiting women in low-income countries, violating their rights and causing unimaginable climate destruction. These negative impacts will continue unless countries like Bangladesh, from the LDC group, and small nation states work collectively for a just transition to renewable energy pathways.

It is important to remind ourselves that adaptation strategies and pathways will not work unless global leadership is serious about meeting the emission reduction target. In 2024, the average global temperature rise has already been perilously close to an increase of 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. As things stand, current emissions reduction commitments put the world on track for a global temperature rise of 2.6-2.8 degrees Celsius this century, and the actions needed to meet these commitments are insufficient. An urgent phase-out of fossil fuels is essential to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

In urban spaces, heat-related issues have become a major concern as the poor have limited resources and knowledge to deal with it. Efforts at a national level to address these issues must include gender-responsive climate adaptation pathways. Urban institutions and authorities need to be empowered, decentralised, and provided with a separate budget to serve their constituencies. First and foremost, the policymakers require disaggregated data.

Empowering women through education, resource access, and participation in decision-making processes enhances community resilience. Policies like the Bangladesh Climate Change and Gender Action Plan (CCGAP) provide frameworks to integrate gender considerations, but they require improved implementation and monitoring. Women's leadership in local governance and climate initiatives, such as women-led emergency response groups and Reflect Circles at community levels, demonstrates the potential for inclusive and effective disaster response. Sustainable solutions demand gender-sensitive urban planning, enhanced access to climate finance, and community-based interventions to build resilience and equity.

It is critical to enhance and increase access of women, youth, and marginalised communities to climate finance, DRR and humanitarian funding, including by supporting women's organisations to access funding from national and international funding bodies and other multilateral mechanisms generally and those focusing on urbanisation and development.

Farah Kabir is the country director of ActionAid Bangladesh.​

 

[Saif]

Dhaka canals pay for haphazard waste dumping

THE sorry state of canals and water bodies of Dhaka can hardly be exaggerated. All canals that run in and around the city have either fallen into a terrible state or are hurtling towards...

www.newagebd.net

Dhaka canals pay for haphazard waste dumping
28 December, 2024, 00:00

THE sorry state of canals and water bodies of Dhaka can hardly be exaggerated. All canals that run in and around the city have either fallen into a terrible state or are hurtling towards a slow death in the absence of effective waste management and because of encroachment. A waste-filled state of a canal at Mirpur, as a photograph that New Age published on December 27 shows, is representative of almost all canals and water bodies that have been left unprotected. The unplanned dumping of municipal wastes, kitchen market wastes, faecal sludge and medical and electric wastes keeps destroying the canals, polluting the environment, causing water stagnation and adversely impacting public health. The office of Dhaka’s deputy commissioner says that there are 54 canals in Dhaka, the Institute of Water Modelling lists 50 and the National River Conservation Commission has 77 canals on its list. The two city authorities are mainly responsible for the preservation and maintenance of the canals. But not even a single canal in Dhaka is now free of pollution and encroachment. A number of canals have also lost their flow and some have disappeared, too, because of unabated encroachment.

The existence of a few canals has been only on paper as they have all now been encroached on. Many others are headed for the same fate in the absence of any action. The Flood Action Plan and the detailed area plan of the city have identified 5,523 acres of water retention areas, 20,093 acres of canals and rivers and 74,598 acres of flood flow zones for preservation, but about two-thirds of such areas have already been occupied by government agencies and powerful quarters. What is highly concerning is that about 2,000 acres of flood flow zones, as estimates show, disappear every year while of the 5,523 acres identified as water retention areas, only 1,744 acres are found existent in a 2017 Rajuk study. In 2016, after a massive water stagnation, agencies such as the Dhaka South City Corporation, Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority, district administration, police and the Water Development Board, collectively took an initiative to enlist grabbers and ensure their eviction and completed a list and ran a few piecemeal reclamation drives, which proved unsustainable as most of the grabbers returned while new ones have joined in. What is unacceptable is that when there are a number of laws, rules, policies and guidelines to ensure environmentally-friendly waste management and stop encroachment, the authorities have completely failed to save the canals.

It is high time the authorities abandoned paying lip service to the issue and showed the will to reclaim and preserve the canals, wetland, green areas and water bodies. The government should take up an integrated approach to reclaim and conserve the canals to stop the city from hurtling to a disaster.​

 

[Saif]

Bring dead and dying rivers back to life

Drastic fall of groundwater level due to indiscriminate extraction of water mainly for irrigation in the country's Barind region has become a cause for concern. Many areas in the region are now facing an acute shortage of water for the above reason. According to a report of The Financial Express, t

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Bring dead and dying rivers back to life
Sarker Nazrul Islam
Published :
Dec 27, 2024 21:31
Updated :
Dec 27, 2024 21:31

Drastic fall of groundwater level due to indiscriminate extraction of water mainly for irrigation in the country's Barind region has become a cause for concern. Many areas in the region are now facing an acute shortage of water for the above reason. According to a report of The Financial Express, the fall of groundwater level and extensive use of chemical pesticides for pest control are posing a serious threat to public health. It may be noted that due to distinct soil condition and comparatively higher elevation of the Barind tract some 20 to 40 meters above the sea level, rivers that could serve as water reservoirs in the areas are small in number. Naturally, agriculture in the region depends mainly on groundwater extraction. The region has now turned into a dry and arid area due to deforestation and use of subterranean water for irrigation and other purposes. The worsening of the situation could be avoided had there been an extensive network of canals to supply surface water for irrigation. But there is no such provision.

However, dependence on groundwater for irrigation is no longer specific to the north-western region; it is more or less the same in areas where rivers and other open and closed water bodies were far greater in number even a few decades ago. But many of such natural water reservoirs have either met the end of their life or started drying up in the natural process of accumulation of silt and also for mindless encroachment by powerful quarters. Unplanned dam construction has also a role in the loss of navigability and dying condition of a large number of rivers. Big or small rivers alike accumulated huge quantities of silt on their beds over long periods of time but no measures such as capital dredging and river training have been taken for the revival of the dead rivers or rivers in their death throes.

Even in areas once crisscrossed by rivers and dotted with many water bodies, farmers now depend on groundwater for irrigation because of dwindling numbers of sweet water sources. The country withdraws an estimated 32 cubic kilometers (7.7 cubic miles) of groundwater annually, 90 per cent of which is used for irrigation, according to a joint study by the Directorate of Groundwater Hydrology and the World Bank. Bangladesh ranks sixth in the world among countries with the largest estimated annual groundwater extraction, according to the UN World Water Development Report 2022. As a result, the groundwater level in the country is going down at a faster rate. These are simply horrifying in this very wet country receiving on an average about 2,200 millimeters of rainfall per year and washed by frequent floods. If rivers and other water bodies were maintained properly, surface water would be enough for irrigation.

Bangladesh is a deltaic plain created by three mighty river systems namely the Ganges, the Brahmaputra and the Meghna that originated from the Himalayan range and adjoining regions and ended their journey in the Bay of Bengal. Those rivers and hundreds of their tributaries carried billions of tonnes of silt over millions of years and deposited the same at their estuaries. This process ultimately led to the geo-physical formation of this largest delta in the world. But that is not all about their role: those were behind the development of a distinct type of ecology and environment and flora and fauna of unique nature. Those also shaped the life and livelihood of the people and left behind an indelible mark on their culture.

It is evident from the above facts that rivers are vitally important to the economy of this country. The interconnecting rivers served as communication network and played vital roles in trade and commerce. Rivers abound with hundreds of delicious fish species met a significant part of people's nutrition demand and were the sources of livelihood of a large fishing community. According to sources, 60 per cent of the country's population still depends on river water for their animal protein intake. Rivers were the primary sources of irrigation for agriculture. The World Bank estimated that rivers contribute $1.2 billion to Bangladesh's economy annually.

Nature bestowed Bangladesh with all these resources. But instead of ensuring their sustainable use, those were rather left unused or underused. Indifference and negligence to rivers is evident from the rivers around the capital city. Those have been pushed to such a deplorable condition that aquatic plants and animals cannot live in them for heavy pollution and lack of dissolved oxygen in their water. Developed road and railway communication networks are no doubt essential for faster growth of the economy but lopsided emphasis was given on them to the neglect of the inland waterways. Irrigation with river water with low cost technologies would have been quite cheaper but, instead, loss of these natural facilities led to irrigation with costly foreign technology and imported fossil fuel. According to an estimate, out of a total of 24,000 kilometres of rivers, some 5,900 km waterway at present is navigable in the rainy season and only about 3,800 kilometres remain so during the dry season. A nation that neglects its resources bestowed by nature only deserves pity.

However, time is not over yet to frame strategies for maintaining navigability of the existing rivers and reclaiming the lost ones with necessary dredging and river training. Special emphasis should be given on bringing dying rivers back to life. Irrigation with groundwater should be phased out and reverted to the use of surface water from rivers and canals. The Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 has set before it six specific goals, five of which are focused on conservation of rivers, wetlands and ecosystem and efficient use of water. Now, specific plans should be chalked out and implemented to bring the dead and dying rivers back to life and ensure their sustainable use.​

 

[Saif]

Air pollution menace needs effective dust and waste management

Dhaka’s air pollution is worsened by dust from construction and roadworks, requiring solutions.

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Air pollution menace needs effective dust and waste management

Many roadworks use low-quality materials, improper waste disposal, and unregulated practices, worsening the problem. FILE/PHOTO: PALASH KHAN

Air pollution in Dhaka has been a growing concern for both residents and authorities, with the city consistently ranking among the most polluted in the world. One of the leading contributors to air pollution is the massive amount of dust and waste generated by roadworks, construction projects, and uncoordinated urban development. Experts stress that coordinating government bodies, private stakeholders, and using better technology can reduce dust pollution and improve air quality.

A major source of dust pollution in Dhaka is the frequent road digging for utility work. These frequent disruptions contribute to dust pollution and cause significant traffic jams, leading to further emission of harmful gases from vehicles. According to a report from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (2023), these ongoing disruptions contribute significantly to the declining air quality in the city.

Many roadworks use low-quality materials, improper waste disposal, and unregulated practices, worsening the problem. The lack of permanent utility infrastructure leads to repeated work, increasing dust and debris. A 2022 study by Chowdhury and Khan found that substandard construction practices in Dhaka contribute significantly to air pollution due to poor site waste management.

Experts argue that the solution to this issue lies in the coordination between local and national government bodies, private construction companies, and utility providers. The lack of coordination among involved parties causes inefficiency, with multiple agencies digging up the same roads. The government should enforce a collaborative planning system for coordinated utility work. The World Bank (2020) highlights that coordinated urban planning reduces disruptions, improving resource management and urban environments. Besides the private sector should also be encouraged to adopt best practices, including using modern equipment to minimise dust and waste. For instance, using advanced vacuum trucks to remove debris and dust from construction sites can be a game changer. The World Bank (2020) suggests that such innovations could reduce the burden of air pollution in cities like Dhaka, offering a sustainable way to handle urban infrastructure.

A permanent solution to reducing dust and waste from roadworks is implementing a comprehensive underground utility system. By installing a unified network for water, gas, and electricity, the city can reduce frequent excavations and minimise dust. The World Bank (2020) notes that cities with integrated underground utilities experience fewer disruptions and lower air pollution from roadworks.

Besides, dust control measures, like water spraying systems, can reduce airborne particles during roadworks. Digital mapping tools can track utility installations, minimising future digging and ensuring timely roadworks. This is supported by the 2022 Chowdhury and Khan research.

Another crucial factor in managing dust and waste is ensuring high-quality construction. Low-quality work often leads to cracks and rework, which not only wastes time and resources but also contributes to the continuous disruption of urban areas. The government should impose strict quality standards for all construction and roadworks to prevent the need for repeated repairs. The World Bank (2020) suggests that investment in high-quality infrastructure reduces long-term maintenance costs and improves the city's sustainability.

Private companies should be incentivised to invest in durable, sustainable materials that require fewer interventions. "Green" construction practices, focusing on sustainable materials and waste reduction, should be prioritised in both public and private projects. Research by Chowdhury and Khan (2022) shows that cities with high construction standards experience fewer disruptions and less environmental degradation.

The role of local communities and citizens in reducing dust pollution should not be overlooked. Authorities should engage with residents through awareness programmes on the importance of waste management and reducing unnecessary burning of waste.

Dhaka's air pollution requires a coordinated approach from all stakeholders. By using advanced technology and investing in underground utilities, the city can reduce dust, waste, and create a more sustainable environment. The future of Dhaka lies in long-term planning, collaboration, and the adoption of innovative technologies.

S M Muhaiminul Islam is a researcher and member of the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB).​

 

[Saif]

Curbing methane to combat climate change

WHEN we think of climate change, carbon dioxide (CO₂) often dominates climate discourse, while methane is a powerful, yet often overlooked, greenhouse gas that deserves more attention. Methane (CH₄) is...

www.newagebd.net

Curbing methane to combat climate change
by Md Zahurul Al Mamun 30 December, 2024, 00:00

New Age

The road to methane reduction is long and complex, but the solutions are increasingly within reach. Political will, financial investment and global cooperation are needed to turn those solutions into reality, writes Md Zahurul Al Mamun

WHEN we think of climate change, carbon dioxide (CO₂) often dominates climate discourse, while methane is a powerful, yet often overlooked, greenhouse gas that deserves more attention. Methane (CH₄) is over 80 times more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than CO₂ over a 20-year period, making it a key target for short-term climate action to slow global warming. And it is not just industrial giants or deforestation driving this — it is the very food we consume, the waste we discard and the livestock we farm.

However, the narrative surrounding methane reductions, particularly within the global food system, often lacks the complexity needed to generate effective solutions. We need a more radical, data-driven reevaluation of our food systems, one that challenges the assumption that small, incremental changes can make a meaningful dent in methane emissions.

A system at risk

METHANE’S role in the food system is far-reaching. Livestock farming, rice paddies and food waste — the three pillars of our global food system — are driving methane emissions through the roof. According to McKinsey & Company, agriculture accounts for an estimated 45 per cent of total methane emissions. About 80 per cent of agricultural methane emissions are from livestock production, with rice cultivation contributing 10-12 per cent. The UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2021 states that food waste contributes around 8–10 per cent of total GHG emissions.

By 2050, we could avoid around 0.1–0.2°C of warming simply by slashing methane emissions from food systems. While this might sound small, it’s a critical piece of the puzzle. The UNEP report highlights that cutting methane emissions by 45 per cent by 2030 could prevent 0.3°C of warming by 2045 — a key step toward keeping global temperatures under the 1.5°C target set by the Paris Agreement.

This represents a pivotal opportunity to slow down climate change, yet achieving this requires more than merely shifting consumer behaviour. It demands a structural overhaul of food systems, which necessitates confronting the entrenched interests that have benefitted from the status quo.

Cost of our choices

THE common prescription to address methane emissions is to reduce red meat and dairy consumption. It is estimated that a shift to plant-based diets could reduce food-related methane emissions by 20–30 per cent. But here’s where the narrative gets tricky. However, while these figures are enticing, they are misleading unless we fully consider the societal and economic complexities at play.

For some, reducing meat consumption might seem simple—especially in high-income countries, where red meat is often over-consumed. Indeed, a study from the World Resources Institute (WRI) found that implementing a 10 per cent tax on beef could reduce consumption by 5–10 per cent. In fact, in 2023, more than 15 countries introduced policies to curb meat consumption, with several nations exploring economic incentives to promote plant-based foods.

Projected increases in demand for ruminant meat — up to 90 per cent by 2050 — cannot simply be reversed by expecting consumer behaviour to change. Take the 2023 survey by the International Food Information Council — nearly 70 per cent of US consumers expressed a willingness to cut back on meat. But in reality, only 20 per cent followed through. This gap between intention and action underscores the complexity of behaviour change. It’s easy to say, ‘Eat less meat,’ but without systemic changes, it’s unlikely to happen on the scale needed.

But what happens when we apply this logic to lower-income nations, where livestock not only provides nutrition but also economic stability? The smallholder farmer in Bangladesh or the herder in Kenya can’t afford to abandon livestock-based agriculture overnight. For them, meat and dairy are not indulgences; they are lifelines. Are we truly prepared to offer them alternatives that preserve their livelihoods?

Improving production practices

MEANWHILE, technological advancements and policy-driven incentives are likely to reduce methane emissions from food production. The widespread adoption of methane-reducing technologies, such as cattle vaccines and methane inhibitors, is slow, but momentum is building. In high-income nations, precision farming and advanced breeding programs offer the potential to significantly reduce emissions, but developing nations face more significant barriers. Here, international cooperation and funding will be critical to closing the gap.

Optimising agricultural practices to reduce methane emissions is another critical pillar of mitigation strategies. Livestock feed additives, such as red seaweed, have shown promising results in reducing methane emissions from cows by up to 90 per cent in laboratory settings. Yet, the gap between potential and practical implementation is vast. These technologies remain inaccessible or economically unfeasible for farmers, especially in developing countries, where the agricultural sector is already underfunded.

Similarly, rice cultivation, which contributes to around 12 per cent of global methane emissions, can be optimised by employing alternate wetting and drying techniques, reducing methane emissions by up to 48 per cent in some cases. However, scaling this up globally requires investments in infrastructure and training that many countries are not equipped to handle. Without international cooperation and substantial funding, these solutions remain more theory than practice.

The claim that ‘optimising production processes could reduce emissions by up to 50 per cent’ is perhaps overly optimistic without acknowledging the economic and technological constraints. In many cases, production improvements are incremental and significant reductions in methane emissions will require global cooperation, financial support and a just transition for farmers who depend on methane-heavy agricultural practices for their livelihood.

Reducing food waste to save the planet

FOOD waste is another major contributor to methane emissions. According to the UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2021, approximately 30 per cent of all food produced globally is wasted and when this organic matter decays in landfills, it releases vast quantities of methane. In wealthier nations, food waste occurs mostly at the consumer level, driven by over-purchasing, confusion over expiration dates and the pursuit of aesthetic standards in retail. Conversely, in developing nations, food waste happens post-harvest due to inadequate cold storage, poor transportation infrastructure and inefficient supply chains. For example, in sub-Saharan Africa, post-harvest losses account for up to 20 per cent of all food produced.

If we were to halve food waste, we could reduce warming by a substantial margin. Yet, food waste is not just a logistical issue — it is a moral one. With over 800 million people going hungry worldwide, throwing away food isn’t just irresponsible; it is inhumane. The methane released from our waste is a brutal irony in a world where the excess of some condemns the rest to suffer the consequences. Tackling food waste requires localised, context-specific interventions rather than one-size-fits-all global campaigns.

Broader greenhouse gas picture

WHILE methane dominates the food-related emissions landscape, other GHGs, including carbon dioxide (CO₂) and nitrous oxide (N₂O), must also be addressed. Focusing solely on methane would be a mistake. For example, while livestock emits significant methane, agriculture — through activities such as synthetic fertiliser use — contributes around 80 per cent of global N₂O emissions, according to McKinsey & Company. These emissions have nearly tripled since 1980 due to the intensification of agriculture, making N₂O reductions an essential part of a comprehensive mitigation strategy.

Methane, CO₂ and N₂O emissions are intertwined and addressing them together will lead to cumulative effects that help stabilise the climate. While reducing methane is critical, it’s part of a larger puzzle that includes cutting down on CO₂ and N₂O emissions from agricultural systems. Moreover, reducing greenhouse gases must include energy decarbonisation across agricultural sectors. Renewable energy in farming not only slashes CO₂ emissions but also has the potential to curb methane and N₂O. A coherent mitigation strategy for the food system requires both top-down policies, such as the Global Methane Pledge and bottom-up innovations, from technological breakthroughs to grassroots efforts in sustainable farming.

A growing number of experts suggest shifting to Global Warming Potential Star as a metric rather than carbon dioxide equivalent, or CO₂e, for assessing methane’s impact, as it better accounts for the short-term nature of methane relative to CO₂. Incorporating this into global climate targets will ensure a more balanced and effective approach to reducing GHG emissions from food systems.

The road to a sustainable food system isn’t just about eating less meat or throwing away less food — it’s about fundamentally rethinking how we grow, process and distribute food in a way that considers the broader emissions picture.

The crossroads

IT IS not just about what we can do — it is about what we must do. We are at a tipping point. The Global Methane Pledge, launched at COP26 in Glasgow, offers hope, with over 158 countries (Bangladesh is a signatory) committing to cut methane emissions by 30 per cent by 2030. But pledges alone won’t solve this. Real action — on both the national and corporate levels — is required.

To make informed decisions at the national level, Bangladesh needs to establish data collection and inventory management systems for accurate insights. Additionally, the government must introduce the right policies in the right places to promote methane reduction, including carbon pricing strategies, subsidies for methane-reducing technologies and support for plant-based alternatives.

For example, in New Zealand, the government has introduced a methane-reduction plan targeting emissions from agriculture while protecting farmers’ livelihoods. This plan includes reducing biogenic methane emissions by 10 per cent on 2017 levels by 2030 and by 24–47 per cent by 2050. This approach offers a potential model for other nations.

Meanwhile, corporate initiatives are emerging. Companies like Nestlé and Unilever have committed to reducing methane emissions in their supply chains by promoting sustainable agricultural practices. These efforts are crucial as they demonstrate the role of the private sector in addressing climate change.

The road to methane reduction is long and complex, but the solutions are increasingly within reach. Political will, financial investment and global cooperation are needed to turn those solutions into reality.

The moral imperative

YET, the challenge remains monumental. We are not only up against emissions—we are up against ourselves: our habits, our cultures, our economies. Methane emissions aren’t just an abstract scientific concept — they are an expression of our relationship with the Earth, with each other and with future generations. The opportunity to cut methane is perhaps the most promising lever we have to slow near-term warming and prevent the worst impacts of climate change. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: if we don’t rethink how we produce and consume food, the future will force us to reckon with the consequences in far more brutal ways.

Are we ready to act?

Md Zahurul Al Mamun is a climate change researcher and analyst.​

 

[Saif]

New law to be formulated to protect trees

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan yesterday announced that a new law is being formulated to protect trees, which will include special provisions against using nails on trees for advertisements.

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New law to be formulated to protect trees
Says Rizwana

File photo

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan yesterday announced that a new law is being formulated to protect trees, which will include special provisions against using nails on trees for advertisements.

Stressing the need for public cooperation to stop this harmful practice, she said once the law is enacted, violators will face penalties.

She made the remarks while inaugurating a tree protection campaign by removing nails from trees on the road adjacent to the south gate of Abahani field in the capital.

She said driving nails into trees disrupts their growth, ultimately leading to their death. Such actions harm the environment.

Rizwana also attended a workshop for executive magistrates involved in mobile court operations. She directed them to take strict measures against those responsible for air pollution.​

 

[Saif]

The imperative of plastic waste management

The fact that one of the main reasons for environmental pollution in the country is plastic need not be over-emphasised. A recent study by the Environment and Social Development Organisation (ESDO) titled "Environmental Impact of Single-use Plastic Bottles: Pollution and Health Risks" reveals alarm

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

The imperative of plastic waste management
Wasi Ahmed
Published :
Dec 31, 2024 21:41
Updated :
Dec 31, 2024 21:41

Women process plastic waste at a dumping site in Dhaka, Bangladesh on January 8, 2020 — Xinhua photo


The fact that one of the main reasons for environmental pollution in the country is plastic need not be over-emphasised. A recent study by the Environment and Social Development Organisation (ESDO) titled "Environmental Impact of Single-use Plastic Bottles: Pollution and Health Risks" reveals alarming data on the country's use and disposal of plastic. Bangladesh annually consumes approximately 3.15 to 3.84 billion single-use plastic bottles, of which only 21.4 per cent are recycled, says the study. The remaining 78.6 per cent find their way into rivers, seas, and landfills, posing severe environmental and health risks.

The study highlights that single-use plastic bottles can persist in the environment for up to 450 years, releasing microplastics and toxic chemicals into ecosystems and food chains. Urban areas in Bangladesh primarily use water bottles, while rural regions lean towards soft drink bottles. However, awareness of the associated health and environmental risks remains dismally low. Only 18.4 per cent of urban consumers and 5.5 per cent of rural consumers understand the health risks posed by these plastics, while a mere 3.4 per cent are aware of their environmental impact. Alarmingly, 51 per cent of urban consumers and 42 per cent of rural consumers discard plastic bottles after a single use. Chemicals such as Bisphenol A (BPA), commonly found in these plastics, pose significant health risks, including hormonal disruption and chronic diseases like cancer.

Although pollution, for the most part, is manmade let loose by poor waste management and inadequate application of recycling methods, the fact remains that plastic pollution is a catastrophe on a scale that is difficult to grasp. Across the world, humans are exposed to harmful plastic through consumption of particles in fish, swallowing it with drinking water and even breathing it in from the air.

ESDO in its study report has recommended for promoting environment-friendly and sustainable alternatives, encouraging the use of reusable bottles, reducing the production and consumption of single-use plastic bottles, developing and enforcing comprehensive policies and regulatory guidelines, supporting manufacture of alternative materials, ensuring environmentally responsible recycling practices, imposing a ban on the reuse of harmful chemicals and preventing the trade of hazardous plastic waste.

High volume of waste, not properly disposed or recycled, deprives the country of substantial earnings which could be well over Tk 60 billion annually, according to another study by a private research body, Waste Concern. The yearly production of the country's plastic factories, from more than 5,000 units, is approximately 4.0 million tonnes, of which more than 1.0 million tonne turns into waste. But the volume of waste recycled, according to the study, is only around 28 per cent. Although the government is providing tax exemption for initiatives for recycling, and reduced bank loans are also being availed of by enterprises for the purpose, recycling is appallingly low.

This, no doubt, explains the urgency of collaborative efforts of the government and the private sector towards working on an effective waste recycling and management policy. Experts believe that effective waste management is the key to flourishing the prospects of the country's plastic industry. While improvements in infrastructure, product development are integral to the growth of the industry to desired levels, waste management and recycling are critical areas in need of immediate attention. It has been found that of all the waste accumulated on a daily basis in the country, the share of plastic is more than 60 per cent. However, doing away with the waste is relatively easier compared with various types from other sources due to the user-friendly recycling technology. But in the absence of systematic methods of collecting waste and recycling facilities, the bulk of the refuse is left to pollute the environment.

One of the main benefits that most countries derive from recycled plastic waste is substantial saving on procuring raw materials and increased earnings from recycled products. Findings of the study by the research body--Waste Concern say that if the refuse of plastic factories in and around Dhaka alone are recycled with appropriate technology, 75 per cent of it could be tuned into fresh products, which would amount to around Tk 7.0 billion in foreign exchange. This indeed explains that an added focus on recycling and growth of the country's plastic sector are mutually inclusive and reinforcing.

An important point that needs to be mentioned here is that not all grades of plastic are recyclable. So, the problem associated with recycling lies in the various grades of plastic that are in use. This is a problem all over the world, including in the advanced countries. There are thus talks of banning use of those grades of plastic that cannot be recycled. An alternative suggestion forwarded by experts is to allow only a few (preferably one or two) recyclable grades for manufacturing plastic products. Given the dangers looming not too far, it is likely that most countries will agree to work on such a common agenda-to cut pollution on the one hand, and benefit from the immense possibilities of plastic, on the other.​

 

[Saif]

Can we ever curb Dhaka's air pollution?

Lack of progress under interim government has been frustrating

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Can we ever curb Dhaka's air pollution?
Lack of progress under interim government has been frustrating

VISUAL: STAR

It is alarming to learn that this December marked the most polluted month in Dhaka in the past nine years. According to the Center for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS), over these nine years, the months of December have seen 17 days of "hazardous" air, with 11 of those days being in last December. Research by CAPS found that the average Air Quality Index (AQI) last month was 288—the worst since 2016. On December 14, the pollution level reached an unprecedented 880 AQI at 11 PM.

Thus, Dhaka has suffered from consistently poor air quality over the years. While the air quality slightly improves during the monsoon season, it deteriorates to "unhealthy" and "very unhealthy" levels during winter. But 11 days of "hazardous" air in a single month indicates a tipping point that demands decisive action.

The failure of the previous government has undoubtedly contributed to the current situation. Many projects were undertaken over the past decade to improve air quality, but these failed to deliver results, with allegations of funds being misappropriated by the relevant authorities. But has anything changed since the political transition in August? Reportedly, no significant initiatives have been undertaken to address major pollution sources such as brick kilns, factory emissions, unfit vehicles, indiscriminate waste burning, and unchecked construction activities. We do not need additional projects to curb these illegal activities—what we need is active, consistent monitoring which is sorely lacking at present. The environment ministry must be held accountable for this failure.

It is known that political influence hindered efforts when Awami League was in power, but how to explain the lack of progress since the interim government took charge? After assuming the role of environment adviser, Syeda Rizwana Hasan announced a National Air Quality Management Action Plan to address pollution sources, improve air monitoring, and strengthen enforcement mechanisms. Months have passed, yet there has been no tangible progress. As a result, Dhaka's hospitals are now overwhelmed with patients suffering from pollution-related diseases.

We do not expect a dramatic change under the interim government, but Dhaka's residents at least deserve to see some measurable progress in curbing its air pollution. The authorities must not fail them again.​

 

[Saif]

Anti-polythene drive: Tk 29 lakh fined, 60,000kg polythene seized

The team inspected shops for compliance and encouraged traders to switch to eco-friendly alternatives like jute and fabric bags.

www.thedailystar.net

Anti-polythene drive: Tk 29 lakh fined, 60,000kg polythene seized

Photo: UNB

The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has intensified its crackdown on illegal polythene bag production, imposing fines of approximately Tk 29 lakh and seizing nearly 60,000 kilogrammes of polythene during nationwide operations since November 3.

Tapan Kumar Biswas, additional secretary and chairpersn of the Ministry's Monitoring Committee stated that a total of 216 mobile court operations have been carried out nationwide.

The operations targeted 438 establishments, leading to the seizure of 59,959 kilograms of polythene.

"The number of mobile courts has been increased to enforce stricter measures. Legal actions will be taken against offenders," he said during a media briefing following a monitoring operation at Hatirpool and Palashi markets in Dhaka.

Highlighting the environmental damage caused by polythene, Tapan noted its role in severe pollution, obstruction of rivers and canals, and soil degradation.

He stressed the importance of enforcing the ban effectively and urged citizens to adopt reusable alternatives such as jute, fabric, or wax-coated paper bags.

"We need everyone's cooperation to make this initiative a success," he said, calling for public awareness and media support.

The monitoring operation was conducted by officials from the ministry, the Department of Environment, law enforcement agencies, and market committee representatives.

The team inspected shops for compliance and encouraged traders to switch to eco-friendly alternatives like jute and fabric bags.​

 

[Saif]

Prevent start of illegal brick kilns’ operations in hill districts: HC to govt

The High Court today ordered the government to take necessary steps in a week in order to prevent the illegal brick kilns in different places of the three hill districts--Khagrachhari, Bandarban and Rangamati--from starting their activities

www.thedailystar.net

Prevent start of illegal brick kilns’ operations in hill districts: HC to govt

File photo of Bangladesh High Court

The High Court today ordered the government to take necessary steps in a week in order to prevent the illegal brick kilns in different places of the three hill districts--Khagrachhari, Bandarban and Rangamati--from starting their activities.

The HC asked the deputy commissioners of the three districts to comply with the directives and to submit compliance reports before it in two weeks.

The bench of Justice Farah Mahbub and Justice Debasish Roy Chowdhury delivered the order after hearing a writ petition filed by in 2022 by Human Rights and Peace for Bangladesh (HRPB) seeking necessary directives to stop the activities of illegal brick kilns without licenses in the three hill districts.

Petitioner's lawyer Manzill Murshid told the court that the season for production of brick kilns has already started.

If illegal brick kilns start operations, it will harm the environment and public health, he said.

Advocate Manzill Murshid also mentioned that if directives are not given from the HC to prevent illegal brick kilns from starting operations, those will start the seasonal works again and therefore, it will be very harmful to the environment.​

 

[Saif]

Blocking sun to fight climate change

To *&*&*&*&*&*& the process of human-induced global warming, the concerned UN bodies have been working hard to prevail upon nations to limit their levels of carbon emission. But despite commitments and promises from the main contributors to global warming, cooperation from the developed and fast growing

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Blocking sun to fight climate change
SYED FATTAHUL ALIM
Published :
Jan 06, 2025 21:45
Updated :
Jan 06, 2025 21:45

To *&*&*&*&*&*& the process of human-induced global warming, the concerned UN bodies have been working hard to prevail upon nations to limit their levels of carbon emission. But despite commitments and promises from the main contributors to global warming, cooperation from the developed and fast growing developing nations is not forthcoming as expected. But scientists are not sitting idly by, while the politicians are taking the world to the brink of self-destruction. Some of these climate scientists are working on a novel idea of cooling the earth by spraying large amounts of aerosol into the stratosphere, the layer of the atmosphere that lies approximately 10 km to 50 km above the surface of the earth. These scientists hold that if this chemical substance is sprayed for long enough, it can reflect sunlight and cool the atmosphere. So, this can be a recipe for combating global warming.

This idea is part of solar geoengineering, a set of technologies that aims to manipulate earth's climate to mitigate the impact of climate change. Interestingly, these set of technologies are gaining traction among lawmakers, academics and even the UN bodies like IPCC (Intergovernmental panel on climate change) that assesses climate change and provides related scientific information to policymakers. However, there are also strong opponents of this idea who consider it a dangerous gamble on a planetary scale, since no one knows what would be the long-term effect of spraying aerosol, a suspension of liquid or solid particles in a gas such as air. Suspended chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) and Hydro chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) particles that constitute aerosol, if sprayed into the atmosphere, will rise up to the ozone layer, which is part of the stratosphere. The chlorine in the chlorofluorocarbon, once released from the aerosol container, reacts with ozone gas and depletes it. The proponents of the method of aerosol spraying believe that by this means sunrays can be blocked from reaching the earth and thereby lower earth's temperature. Used over a long period of time, the method at a stage would bring down earth's temperature to the pre-industrial level, proponents of this process of Solar Radiation Management (SRM) or geoengineering believe.

This approach is obviously acceptable to the fuel oil producing countries and the businesses in this sector. Industries dependent on fossil fuel will also welcome the process. But the opponents think, here lies the real danger. Because by creating a hole in the ozone layer and expanding it further by continuously spraying CFC into it, ultraviolet (UV) rays, as generally believed, would flood the earth destroying plant and animal life. This is a common fear among scientists that led to banning of the use of CFC-rich aerosols in 1994 in the USA. And ultimately, the ban was introduced across the globe. Small wonder that, the proposal of using geoengineering like SRM as an answer to global warming has been greeted with such controversy among the scientific community. Even so, the SRM is being given serious consideration by many scientists including those in the IPCC. The reason is, the reduction of the solar heat being trapped by the earth at the expected level is not possible by the method of Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) now in use. In fact, the energy imbalance the earth is experiencing is approximately 1 watt per square metre of the earth's surface area. This is more than 25 times the amount of energy humans use globally. In that case, the target of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial level by 2050 does not appear to be an achievable one. Hence is this present focus of climate scientists on SRM as a possible tool of climate action.​

 

[Saif]

Dhaka needs to urgently prepare for a major quake

Having experienced two earthquakes in the span of a single week, an obvious question looms – are we taking this silent threat seriously enough?

www.thedailystar.net

Dhaka needs to urgently prepare for a major quake
Say experts

File Design / STAR

Having experienced two earthquakes in the span of a single week, an obvious question looms – are we taking this silent threat seriously enough?

Luckily, none of the two earthquakes -- one on January 3 with a moderate magnitude of five that originated in Myanmar and another yesterday morning with a 7.1 magnitude originating in Tibet -- were close enough to affect us.

Yesterday's quake had its epicentre near the Nepal-Tibet border and reportedly killed at least 126 people. Dhaka residents woke up to the tremors early in the morning, content with the thought that the quake was not big enough in the country.

Experts, however, say that Dhaka sits precariously on a seismic time bomb.

Research indicates that the Indo-Burma subduction zone, encompassing Sylhet and Chattogram, is accumulating strain capable of generating a significant seismic event, with the capability of releasing the energy of up to a magnitude of eight.

Another very active zone is the Dauki fault, which has been associated with several large earthquakes. It is believed to have ruptured three times in the past millennium, with significant events occurring in 840, 920 and 1548 and possibly the 1897 Assam earthquake, which had a magnitude of eight or more.

Smaller tremors occur in this region regularly -- 550 earthquakes with a magnitude of four or above have struck within 300km of Bangladesh in the past decade. This comes down to an average of 55 quakes per year, or four per month. On average, there are earthquakes near Bangladesh every six days.

Experts say these small seismic events can be a warning sign of a bigger earthquake in regions with active faults, such as the Dauki fault or the Indo-Burma subduction zone.

The Great Assam Earthquake of 1897 shook the Indian subcontinent, reaching parts of Dhaka. More than a century later, experts warn that the region is overdue for another seismic event -- one that could have devastating consequences for the Bangladesh capital's 22 million residents.

As one of the world's most densely populated cities, Dhaka is alarmingly ill-prepared to face such a disaster.

While minor tremors have been felt over the years, the city's collective response has been nothing more than a fleeting concern. It is no longer a question of what will happen if an earthquake hits, but when it hits.

With dense urbanisation and poorly enforced building codes, the city is at risk of catastrophic damage in the event of a major quake.

Dhaka is more vulnerable to earthquakes due to its geological location, and human and economic exposure. According to the earthquake disaster risk index, the capital tops the list of the 20 most vulnerable cities in the world.

Even though Bangladesh achieved remarkable success in disaster management, especially managing events like cyclones and floods, the scenario would be different in case of a catastrophe in Dhaka and require meaningful government attention.

According to experts, the government should conduct extensive mass awareness programmes among citizens with regular earthquake drills; enhance children's education about natural disasters using digital platforms; ensure volunteer training; and form a coordination platform with government and non-government agencies for rescue operations.

Also, as part of long-term measures, the government must enforce the proper implementation of the National Building Code. If needed, the code should be updated by incorporating a proper implementation plan.

We can no longer afford to be complacent.

The risk grows with every single day of delay. Earthquake drills, stricter building codes, and public awareness campaigns are no longer optional -- they are a necessity.

The time to prepare is now, before it's too late.​

 

[Saif]

Season’s longest cold wave likely next week, temp may fall below 10°C

Minimum temperatures may fall below 10 degrees Celsius across more than half of the country, inviting a bone-chilling cold.

en.prothomalo.com

Season’s longest cold wave likely next week, temp may fall below 10°C
Special Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 07 Jan 2025, 20: 30

Working people wrapped in warm clothes brave the cold as they head out for work on a three-wheeler. The photo was taken from the Manoharpur area of the Pabna-Ishwardi highway on 6 January 2024. Hasan Mahmud

The shivering cold is set to return with dense fog as a fresh spell of cold wave is likely to hit the country the next week, according to the weather office.

Daytime temperature is likely to drop by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius across the country on Wednesday, and it may gradually lead to a cold wave in different parts of the country within a few days, particularly in the northern region.

In the northernmost region, Tentulia in Panchagarh, temperatures have already reached cold wave levels. The meteorological department forecast that cold may intensify in the coming days and persist throughout the next week.

The capital city experienced a respite from cold in the last few days due to a steady rise in temperatures, ranging between 1 or 2 degrees Celsius daily. It is expected to decline consistently in the next five to six days. Minimum temperatures may fall below 10 degrees Celsius across more than half of the country, inviting a bone-chilling cold.

The cold wave might be the longest one of the current season.

While talking to Prothom Alo, a meteorologist of the Bangladesh meteorological department (BMD), Omar Faruk, said the cold air flow has strengthened, and the volume of fog is rising rapidly. “As a result, both fog and cold may intensify over the next few days and continue until 14 January.”

According to meteorologists, the cold air is being driven by a western low-pressure persisting over the Kashmir region of the Himalayan mountains in northwestern India.

It is moving eastward through the central and northeastern states of India and is expected to reach Bangladesh by Wednesday morning. Therefore, cold air accompanied by fog is likely to flow over the country from tomorrow.

Among the districts, those of Rangpur, Rajshahi, and Khulna divisions are likely to suffer the most from the cold wave. Besides, the Sylhet division may experience an intense cold.​

 

[Saif]

Stop illegal extraction of natural resources

Enforcement of environmental laws and regulations is needed to protect natural resources.

www.thedailystar.net

Stop illegal extraction of natural resources
Combined public-private initiatives can prevent such practices

VISUAL: STAR

We are concerned about the rampant illegal sand extraction reported at the Barachhara canal in Sharsharshee village of Sreemangal, Moulvibazar. According to a report by this daily, the extraction has continued unabated despite a High Court order banning sand mining in the area, causing parts of a sluice gate to sink. Built to provide irrigation water to local farmers, the gate's functionality is now compromised, jeopardising agricultural activities and the livelihoods of around 25,000 farmers in surrounding villages. Furthermore, several sinkholes have appeared in the nearby Dinarpur Tea Garden, while roads have been severely damaged by heavy vehicles transporting the sand.

Locals allege that an influential group, led until recently by a Jubo League leader who is now on the run, is behind this operation. Even though his two-year lease for sand extraction has expired, there has been no let-up in sand extraction. Who, then, is doing it in his absence? The local administration is apparently in the dark about this. We have seen a similar trend in Sylhet's Companyganj where two hillocks have been stripped bare since August 5 through illegal stone quarrying. There, too, the local administration's role has left a lot to be desired.

In Bangladesh, we have no shortage of laws, regulations, and court orders prohibiting illegal and destructive resource extraction. Yet, enforcement has remained woefully inadequate. Even with a non-political government in place, the entrenched political-administration-business nexus continues to wreak havoc on our precious environment and ecology. This needs to change.

We expect the environment adviser, herself a prominent environmental activist, and her ministry to use their authority and experience to stop all illegal operations in extracting natural resources. Given the scale of the problem, it may not be possible for the government to guard every canal, hill, or natural resource on its own. However, community-based initiatives can play a crucial supportive role. Locals can be educated, empowered, and included in the protection and maintenance of these resources. The idea of community policing, supported by local administration and environmental groups, should also be pursued to curb these activities. Only collective efforts can help protect our natural resources on which the livelihoods and well-being of countless citizens depend.​

 

[Saif]

What will it take to end the brick kiln menace?

984 kilns operating in breach of regulations in Rangpur division

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What will it take to end the brick kiln menace?
984 kilns operating in breach of regulations in Rangpur division

VISUAL: STAR

The number is quite staggering, and it's frustrating that such numbers exist even when there is a pro-environment government in place. According to a report citing officials at the departments of environment and agricultural extension in Rangpur, the division has 984 brick kilns—set up on farmlands across its eight districts—operating in violation of government regulations. These kilns use fertile topsoil to make bricks in a process that causes significant damage to the local environment, livelihoods, and health. While the proliferation of such kilns, owned or operated mostly by people with political connections, was understandable under the Awami League regime, their continued operation now questions the ability and sincerity of the interim administration.

The situation is by no means unique to Rangpur. Similar operations also continue in many other areas, ravaging topsoil and burning bricks with impunity. Not long ago, we highlighted the case of Brahmanbaria where, according to a Prothom Alo report, 56 kilns operate illegally. Many of them, including one set up by a former Awami League lawmaker, have no valid documents such as environmental clearance or the permit for brick burning. Many were set up on agricultural lands and even wetland areas. In Lalmonirhat, according to another recent report, 36 brick kilns are operating without a clearance certificate. Although there is no central database on the number of illegal or non-compliant brick kilns in the country, the above reports portray a grim picture.

The question is, what is the interim government doing? To be fair, the environment ministry did take some encouraging steps, including the development of a National Air Quality Management Action Plan in early November to tackle sources of air pollution and enhance enforcement mechanisms. More recently, it has overseen a number of drives through mobile courts targeting illegal kilns, shutting down quite a few by demolishing their chimneys while ordering the closure of multiple others. These measures, however, are proving to be inadequate to address the menace of brick kilns.

We, therefore, urge the government to step up its efforts. Given the massive impact of brick kilns, having legal papers or not, it is no longer enough to just go after a few illegal ones without enforcing compliance across the sector or addressing the heavy reliance on topsoil or traditional bricks. What's at stake here is not just the health of our environment or local communities. The livelihoods of farmers, and by extension the nation's food security, are also at risk. So, the government must explore options to replace traditional brick-making in a way that eventually reduces topsoil and fuel consumption.​

 

[Saif]

SOS from rivers around the city

How a boon turns into a bane or a blessing into a curse is best exemplified by the highly deplorable condition of the rivers around the capital city. Nature created these streams for its own sake, man also found them beneficial; but for unsustainable use, those have now turned into bodies of dirty

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

SOS from rivers around the city
Sarker Nazrul Islam
Published :
Jan 10, 2025 21:16
Updated :
Jan 10, 2025 21:16

Buriganga: Living along a dead river Photo : Reuters

How a boon turns into a bane or a blessing into a curse is best exemplified by the highly deplorable condition of the rivers around the capital city. Nature created these streams for its own sake, man also found them beneficial; but for unsustainable use, those have now turned into bodies of dirty water. Rivers have given humans life and livelihood but, in turn, the latter have pronounced death penalty for the former. These rivers were once the lifeline of the city but now, polluted to the extreme, have themselves become sources of health hazard. The pitch-black water of the rivers and foul toxic smell emitted every moment are taking a heavy toll on health of those who live on the river banks and nearby areas. Given the death throes the rivers find themselves in, the authorities' negligence and reluctance to save them is deplorable.

The city area surrounded by five rivers on all sides, once crisscrossed by many natural canals and dotted with closed water bodies is convex in shape, with the central region a bit elevated compared to the periphery. These special physical features of the land attracted the founders of the city more than 400 years ago. They displayed extraordinary prudence in selecting the spot to set up a military base. From the point of defence strategy, the importance of the terrain was that the rivers around would serve as the first line of defence against invaders. The navigability of the rivers round the year and the natural drainage system were other points of consideration. A good many open and closed water bodies in the city also held excess water and helped keep city free from waterlogging. The then city authorities carefully maintained the navigability of the rivers and allowed none to pollute them. Our present-day policy makers and city authorities proved to be utterly incompetent in comparison to their predecessors. They have not only proved incapable of protecting the natural endowment but also failed to develop a modern drainage and sewerage system befitting the megacity with a population of about 20 million.

In addition to serving the above purposes, the rivers also served as waterways to transport cargoes and passengers. The canals were also used for communication with the city centre. Even during the early years of independent Bangladesh, farmers used to carry their agricultural products to Karwan Bazar wholesale market by boat. These rivers, abound with varieties of sweet water fishes, were important sources of animal protein for the city dwellers. Some of the canals were also used for mooring water vehicles. However, almost none of the facilities are available now due to negligence of the authorities to these natural endowments.

While these canals have been lost almost totally, the rivers are now in their death throes due to encroachment by powerful quarters and dumping of solid waste and industrial effluents. Human waste and waste from slaughter houses are also dumped into rivers indiscriminately. The pollution of the river water has reached beyond purification. Due to drastic fall of dissolved oxygen in the water of the rivers, aquatic plants and animals cannot survive in them. The Buriganga and the Turag rivers are virtually dead rivers; what remains of those now are shadows of their past. Needless to say, other rivers across the country are also not in good health.

The city is now absolutely dependent on ground water to meet its daily need. Had not the rivers been polluted to the present level, a significant part of the demand could have been met with river water. In that case, it would have been possible to supply water to the city dwellers at much cheaper rates. The rivers and nearby water bodies could supply fish to the citizens.

The rivers need to be saved from imminent deaths --- all for a healthy environment and well-being of the city dwellers. Saving the rivers involves such actions as dredging to remove solid waste and silt that have accumulated on their beds over many decades, freeing them from illegal encroachment and imposing complete ban on dumping of waste materials into them.

But the rivers around the city seem to be doomed since those are under nobody's care. There is no clear-cut answer to the question as to who own them and look after them. Despite the importance of the rivers for the ecology and environment of the city and communication, there is no unified authority that can take care of them and save them from impending death. The complex nature of river management would rather hasten the end of their life. The shipping ministry owns the river banks but it does not evict the illegal structures from there. The BIWTA is entrusted with the task but it is a question how many establishments they have knocked down so far. Water resources ministry owns the water but environment ministry has been assigned the task of keeping the water clean. How much the water is kept clean is anybody's knowledge. So many cooks have only spoiled the broth.

However, the rivers cannot be left to their fate, the authorities should take the task of saving the rivers seriously and chalk out a separate plan and make budgetary allocation for the purpose. A powerful taskforce may be entrusted with the task of reclaiming the rivers, canals and water bodies. On different occasions in the past people saw a mockery of river dredging and freeing city canals from encroachment. However, those were nothing more than eyewash. Let the rivers not fall victim, once again, to the negligence of the unwilling authorities.​

 

[Saif]

Three coral reefs found in Bay of Bengal

Researchers of Bangladesh Oceanographic Research Institute (BORI) found three sites in the Bay of Bengal, which are rich with coral and one site for coral reef

www.thedailystar.net

Three coral reefs found in Bay of Bengal

Representational image. Photo: Mohammad Arju/Save Our Sea

Researchers of Bangladesh Oceanographic Research Institute (BORI) found three sites in the Bay of Bengal, which are rich with coral and one site for coral reef.

Among the coral sites, they identified a new soft coral species near the St Martin's Island that could contribute to pharmaceuticals for cancer treatment, said principal investigator of the research Md Hasibul Islam, the principal scientific officer of BORI.

Besides using the coral for medicinal purposes, the new discovery brings new hope to contribute up to Tk 114 crores per year to the blue economy from marine tourism for snorkeling diving, photography, and videography, he added.

He presented their research to the Annual Research Results Presentation Seminar at BORI campus today.

In another research, a total 131 crab species were identified by the Bori researchers. Principal investigator of the research Md Tarikul Islam, senior scientific officer of the institute said among the species, five are commercially being used as sea food in Bangladesh.

A research on seaweed analysed the approximate composition of seaweed, nutrient content and antioxidant status, which will help to understand the value of seaweed for human health.

Abu Sayeed Muhammad Sharif, senior scientific officer BORI, said they worked with 10 commercial seaweed in the research.

He said they are working to produce seaweed through tissue culture commercially, which will contribute to the blue economy.

Fifteen researchers were present at the daylong seminar chaired by commodore Md Minarul Hoque, director general of BORI.

Md Mokabbir Hossain, senior secretary of Ministry of Science and Technology, and Rear Admiral Md Khurshed Alam, member, board of director of BORI and president of National Oceanographic and Maritime Institute also spoke on the occasion.​

 

[Saif]

Pollution, encroachment killing Brahmaputra

water pollution and encroachment have drastically reduced fish populations, forcing him to consider changing his occupation and pushing him into hard times.

www.thedailystar.net

Pollution, encroachment killing Brahmaputra

Shah Alam, 62, from Alokbali union in Narsingdi Sadar upazila, has been fishing in the Brahmaputra since the age of 8, following in the footsteps of his father.

However, water pollution and encroachment have drastically reduced fish populations, forcing him to consider changing his occupation and pushing him into hard times.

Fishing, once the primary livelihood for Shah Alam's five-member family, has become increasingly unsustainable. His two sons, Jalal Mia, 20, and Helal Mia, 23, have already abandoned the ancestral occupation due to the dwindling fish population, which fails to meet the costs of living.

Many like Shah Alam are quitting fishing, unable to sustain their families due to the pollution and encroachment that have plagued the river.

In Narsingdi, parts of the Brahmaputra have become lifeless due to pollution from industrial waste and encroachment by influential individuals. Once a symbol of heritage and vitality, the river is now a shadow of its former self, its biodiversity and surrounding environment severely disrupted.

According to official data, the Brahmaputra river flows about 20 kilometres through the district.

Locals alleged influential people have built industries and houses, occupying significant portions of the river that once served as a crucial lifeline for trade and commerce in Narsingdi Sadar, Madhabdi, and Narayanganj.

Moinul Islam Miro, president of Narsingdi Paribesh Andolon, said, echoed the same.

Kamruzzaman Sarker, deputy director of Department of Environment in Narsingdi, said, "We are working to save the Brahmaputra and other rivers by taking punitive measures at different times against factories and ensuring ETP compliance."

Mohammad Rashed Hossain Chowdhury, deputy commissioner, said, "The Water Development Board has sent us a list of illegal structures to free the Brahmaputra from encroachment, and we have forwarded the list to the ministry concerned. If approved, the eviction drive will resume."​

 

[Saif]

CURBING AIR POLLUTION: Enforce 2020 directives: HC

The High Court on Sunday asked the government to fully implement its nine-point directives issued in January 2020 to curb air pollution in Dhaka.

www.newagebd.net

CURBING AIR POLLUTION: Enforce 2020 directives: HC
Staff Correspondent 13 January, 2025, 00:51

The High Court on Sunday asked the government to fully implement its nine-point directives issued in January 2020 to curb air pollution in Dhaka.

The bench of Justice Farah Mahbub and Justice Debasish Roy Chowdhury also asked the authorities concerned to submit reports on the compliance of the order by February 26, the next date of hearing on the matter.

The court passed the order after hearing an application filed by the Human Rights and Peace for Bangladesh to address longstanding environmental and public health concerns in the capital, which kept rnaking high among the most polluted cities in the world.

In the nine directives issued on January 13, 2020, the High Court asked the police to ensure that all trucks, carriers, or vehicles transporting sand, mud, dust, or waste were properly covered to prevent spillage.

It asked the Dhaka North and South City Corporations and the Rajdhani Unnayan Katripakkha to ensure that construction materials, including sand, mud, cement, and stones, were securely covered by contractors or authorities concerned.

Both the city corporations were asked to spray water regularly to control dust pollution.

They were were asked to oversee road construction and excavation projects to ensure strict compliance with laws, tender terms and environmental guidelines.

The two city corporation were also asked to ensure that market owners and shopkeepers stored daily waste in safe bags for disposal by the city corporations.

The direrctives tasked the police with seizing vehicles emitting black smoke beyond the permissible limit.

The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority was asked to set the economic lifespan at 20 years for public transports and 25 years for goods vehicles as per Section 36 of the Road Transport Act 2018 and stop the operation of vehicles beyond the lifespan.

The section empowers the BRTA to set the economic lifespan for all motorised vehicles.

The directives asked the Department of Environment to shut down all illegal brick kilns in two months, immediately halt tyre burning without environmental clearance and unapproved battery recycling.

HRPB lawyer Manzill Murshid informed the court that air pollution in Dhaka worsened due to inadequate enforcement of the 2020 directives.

He emphasised that although authorities made initial progress until 2023, the enforcement was stalled, allowing Dhaka’s air quality to deteriorate further.

He said, ‘Dhaka’s air pollution often peaks during winter, posing severe health risks, including respiratory issues, especially among vulnerable populations. Effective implementation of the High Court directives is a must to reverse this trend.’

The High Court on Sunday stressed the urgency of compliance with the directives, warning that the failure to act would continue to endanger the health and lives of Dhaka residents.

The High Court on several occasions had expressed dissatisfaction with activities of the Department of Environment as environmental pollution, including river and air pollution, kept worsening.

The court questioned the role of the department in preventing air pollution, doubting any necessity of the department as it failed to play any role in stopping air pollution.​

 

[Saif]

2024 hottest recorded year, crosses global warming limit

The past two years saw average global temperatures exceed a critical warming limit for the first time as the UN demanded ‘trail-blazing’ climate action...

www.newagebd.net

2024 hottest recorded year, crosses global warming limit
Agence France-Presse . Geneva, Switzerland 11 January, 2025, 07:21

The past two years saw average global temperatures exceed a critical warming limit for the first time, Europe’s climate monitor said on Friday, as the UN demanded ‘trail-blazing’ climate action.

While this does not mean the internationally-agreed 1.5C warming threshold has been permanently breached, the United Nations warned it was in ‘grave danger’.

‘Today’s assessment from the World Meteorological Organization is clear,’ UN chief Antonio Guterres said. ‘Global heating is a cold, hard fact.’

He added, ‘Blazing temperatures in 2024 require trail-blazing climate action in 2025. There's still time to avoid the worst of the climate catastrophe. But leaders must act now.’

The WMO said six international datasets all confirmed that 2024 was the hottest year on record, extending a decade-long ‘extraordinary streak of record-breaking temperatures’.

The United States became the latest country to report its heat record had been shattered, capping a year marked by devastating tornadoes and hurricanes.

The announcement came just days before US president-elect Donald Trump, who has pledged to double down on fossil fuel production, was set to take office.

Excess heat is supercharging extreme weather, and 2024 saw countries from Spain to Kenya, the United States and Nepal suffer disasters that cost more than $300 billion by some estimates.

Los Angeles is currently battling deadly wildfires that have destroyed thousands of buildings and forced tens of thousands to flee their homes.

Another record-breaking year is not anticipated in 2025, as a UN deadline looms for nations to commit to curbing greenhouse gas emissions.

‘My prediction is it will be the third-warmest year,’ said NASA’s top climate scientist Gavin Schmidt, citing the US determination that the year has begun with a weak La Nina, a global weather pattern that is expected to bring slight cooling.

The WMO’s analysis of the six datasets showed global average surface temperatures were 1.55C above pre-industrial levels.

‘This means that we have likely just experienced the first calendar year with a global mean temperature of more than 1.5C above the 1850-1900 average,’ it said.

Europe’s climate monitor Copernicus, which provided one of the datasets, found that both of the past two years had exceeded the warming limit set out in the 2015 Paris Agreement.

Global temperatures had soared ‘beyond what modern humans have ever experienced’, it said.

Scientists stressed that the 1.5C threshold in the Paris Agreement refers to a sustained rise over decades, offering a glimmer of hope.

Still, Johan Rockstrom of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research called the milestone a ‘stark warning sign.’

‘We have now experienced the first taste of a 1.5C world, which has cost people and the global economy unprecedented suffering and economic costs,’ he told AFP.

Nearly 200 nations agreed in Paris in 2015 that meeting 1.5C offered the best chance of preventing the most catastrophic repercussions of climate change.

But the world remains far off track.

While Copernicus records date back to 1940, other climate data from ice cores and tree rings suggest Earth is now likely the warmest it has been in tens of thousands of years.

Scientists say every fraction of a degree above 1.5C matters –– and that beyond a certain point the climate could shift in unpredictable ways.

Human-driven climate change is already making droughts, storms, floods and heat waves more frequent and intense.

The death of 1,300 pilgrims in Saudi Arabia during extreme heat, a barrage of powerful tropical storms in Asia and North America, and historic flooding in Europe and Africa marked grim milestones in 2024.

The oceans, which absorb 90 per cent of excess heat from greenhouse gases, warmed to record levels in 2024, straining coral reefs and marine life and stirring violent weather.

Warmer seas drive higher evaporation and atmospheric moisture, leading to heavier rainfall and energising cyclones.

Water vapour in the atmosphere hit fresh highs in 2024, combining with elevated temperatures to trigger floods, heatwaves and ‘misery for millions of people’, Copernicus climate deputy director Samantha Burgess said.

Scientists attribute some of the record heat to the onset of a warming El Nino in 2023.

But El Nino ended in early 2024, leaving them puzzled by persistently high global temperatures.

‘The future is in our hands –– swift and decisive action can still alter the trajectory of our future climate,’ said Copernicus climate director Carlo Buontempo.​