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

[Saif]

Developed countries failed to fulfil commitments on climate change: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today expressed frustration that the developed countries are not fulfilling their commitments on climate change issues

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Developed countries failed to fulfil commitments on climate change: PM

Photo: PID

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today expressed frustration that the developed countries are not fulfilling their commitments on climate change issues.

The prime minister said this to visiting Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong during a meeting at her official residence Gono Bhaban, according to PM's speech writer M Nazrul Islam.

"She was a bit frustrated (due to the non-fulfillment of developed countries commitment on climate change issue)," Nazrul said.

The premier told the Australian minister that the Bangladesh government has formed the Climate Trust Fund with its own resources.

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[Saif]

Half of mangrove ecosystems at risk

Half of the world’s mangrove ecosystems are at risk of collapse due to climate change, deforestation and pollution, according to a study published on Wednesday...

www.newagebd.net

Half of mangrove ecosystems at risk
Agence France-Presse . Geneva 22 May, 2024, 22:23
Half of the world's mangrove ecosystems are at risk of collapse due to climate change, deforestation and pollution, according to a study published on Wednesday.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature, known for its red list of threatened species, has for the first time taken stock of the world's mangroves, evaluating 36 different regions.

IUCN director general Grethel Aguilar said the assessment 'highlights the urgent need for coordinated conservation of mangroves — crucial habitats for millions in vulnerable communities worldwide'.

Mangroves are trees or shrubs that grow mainly in seawater or brackish water along coastlines and tidal rivers, in equatorial climes.

Released on the International Day for Biodiversity, IUCN said its findings show that '50 per cent of the mangrove ecosystems assessed are at risk of collapse' — categorised as either vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered.

According to the assessment, 20 per cent were at severe risk of collapse.

Mangroves are threatened by deforestation, development, pollution, and dam construction.

However, the risk is increasing due to sea-level rise and the greater frequency of severe storms associated with climate change.

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[Saif]

Sea level rising, coast under threat

Discover how rising sea levels in Bangladesh are threatening coastal areas, with studies showing 8-15% of land may go underwater and salinity levels could rise, impacting ecology and livelihoods.

en.prothomalo.com

Sea level rising, coast under threat
Partha Shankar SahaDhaka
Published: 24 May 2024, 17: 15

Average rise in sea levelProthom Alo illustration

The sea level along Bangladesh's coast is rising at a rate higher than normal. This has been revealed in three different studies. The studies say that the rate at which the sea level is rising, there are apprehensions that further areas will be inundated or face excess salinity.

Around 8 to 15 per cent of land area of 4 coastal districts may go under water. Salinity in the coastal areas may see an abnormal rise too. This could have a harmful effect on the ecology, people's lives, agriculture, groundwater and infrastructure in the coastal regions.

These three studies were recently conducted by Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET)'s Institute of Water and Flood Management (IWFM) and the government's Centre for Environmental and Geographic Information Services (CEGIS). The results of these studies were published on 8 May.

These studies were carried out at the initiative of the Bangladesh Department of Environment, with funds from the Climate Change Trust Fund project.

BUET carried out the study, 'Estimation of Sea Level Rise in Bangladesh Using Satellite Altimetry Data'. For the first time here the sea level rise was observed by means of satellite. The remaining two studies were carried out by CEGIS to determine the sea level rise and its possible future impact on water and agricultural infrastructure.

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[Saif]

Fewer but fiercer since the 90s

Though Bangladesh is experiencing fewer cyclones than in the 1960s, their intensity has increased, a recent study has found.

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Fewer but fiercer since the 90s
Says DoE study

Though Bangladesh is experiencing fewer cyclones than in the 1960s, their intensity has increased, a recent study has found.

In the 1960s, the number of cyclones hitting the Bangladesh coast was 24, which came down to 13 in the 2010s, according to a study conducted by the Department of Environment with the help of the Center for Environmental and Geographic Information Services (CEGIS).

The country did not experience any super cyclones -- a cyclonic storm which at least packs wind speed of 222kmph -- between 1960 and 1989. However, between 1990 and 2020, at least three of them hit the coast.

"We had a general conception that the number of cyclones has been increasing in the Bay due to climate change. But it is the harshness or intensity of the cyclones that is increasing, not the numbers," said BUET Professor Rezaur Rahman after reviewing the study titled "Projection of Sea Level Rise and Development of Digital Elevation Models in Support of SLR Decision Making".

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[Saif]

Sundarbans cushions blow

Cyclone Remal battered the coastal region at wind speeds that might have reached 130kmph, and lost much of its strength while sweeping over the Sundarbans, Met officials said.

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Sundarbans cushions blow
Remal makes landfall near Khepupara

Locals of Gabbunia village in Khulna's Koyra upazila were going home to collect necessary items before heading to shelters as Cyclone Remal was hurtling towards the southwestern coast yesterday. People in the coastal areas were asked to take precautions ahead of the storm's arrival. Photos: Habibur Rahman and Sohrab Hossain

Cyclone Remal battered the coastal region at wind speeds that might have reached 130kmph, and lost much of its strength while sweeping over the Sundarbans, Met officials said.

"As predicted, the centre of the severe cyclone fell between Khepupara in Patuakhali and Sagar Island in West Bengal," said Abul Kalam Mallik, a meteorologist at Bangladesh Meteorological Department.

He said Bangladesh was on the east of the cyclone's eye which means Bangladesh took the main blow because the east side of a cyclone always causes more damage than the west side in the sub continent.

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[Saif]

Cyclones now last longer

Remal was part of a new trend of cyclones that take their time before making landfall, are slow-moving, and cause significant downpours, flooding coastal areas and cities.

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Cyclones now last longer
Experts say this causes more rain

Man Versus nature... Braving the ferocity of Cyclone Remal, social workers give it their all trying to protect an embankment on the Kapotakkho river in Khulna's Koyra upazila yesterday afternoon. PHOTO: HABIBUR RAHMAN

Remal was part of a new trend of cyclones that take their time before making landfall, are slow-moving, and cause significant downpours, flooding coastal areas and cities.

Even though Remal started battering the Bangladesh coast since Sunday afternoon, its effects on the country's weather will remain until at least this afternoon, said the Bangladesh Meteorological Department.

This means the storm will be hovering over Bangladesh for at least 45 hours. Cyclone Aila in 2009 hung around for 34 hours before disappearing.

Meteorologists and experts said a trend is being seen in the cyclones that hit Bangladesh. They are sluggish, long-lasting and tend to inundate more areas.

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[Saif]

How the Sundarbans repeatedly saves Bangladesh from cyclones

 

[Saif]

40 Sundarbans animals found dead, 17 rescued hurt

The forest department officials on Tuesday said that so far they found 39 dead deer and a pig in the Sundarbans after the severe cyclone Remal that hit the...

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40 Sundarbans animals found dead, 17 rescued hurt
Rashad Ahamad 29 May, 2024, 00:23

A man holds an injured fawn at Katka sanctuary in Sundarbans on Tuesday as cyclone Remal takes a toll on the mangrove forest. | Focus Bangla photo

The forest department officials on Tuesday said that so far they found 39 dead deer and a pig in the Sundarbans after the severe cyclone Remal that hit the forest on Sunday.

Primarily they have estimated infrastructural damage of Tk 6.27 crore in the forest while the total damage, including animals and plants, could not be calculated yet.

Officials said that the cyclone with over 100-kilometre per hour speed hit the forest hard on Sunday after noon with 8-10 feet high tidal surge inundating all 80 freshwater ponds in the forest.

The tidal saline water drained out after 48-hours stay in the forest which the officials estimated the record longest stay of salt water in the mangrove forest in the recorded history of 17 years.

They feared a huge impact on animals this time after cyclone Sidr in 2007.

'We could not calculate total damage of the forest yet. Forest officials could not enter into the forest as the Bay of Bengal still very rough,' said Mihir Kumar Doe, Khulna circle conservator of forest.

They feared more losses of flora and fauna in the forest because of the unusual duration of flooding and crisis of freshwater.

Officials estimated that they would need at least four more days to assess the situation.

Officials feared that they were going to count the worst damage in the Sundarbans in terms of its wildlife.

Saltwater entered into the world's largest mangrove forest around 12:30pm on Sunday and drained out around 11:30am on Tuesday.

They said that usually saline water drained out from the forest within three-four hours in the past cyclones.

Wild animals turned vulnerable for the long-time stay of saline water at a high level in the forest, they said.

Sundarbans is the house of huge diversity that shelters 40 species of mammals, 260 species of birds and 35 species of reptiles. Royal Bengal Tiger is the signature animal of the rainforest.

Mihir Kumar Doe said that there are only eight shelters for animals in the forest which is very insufficient.

Mihir said that due to the tidal surge, all the 80 ponds which are the sources of freshwater for wild-animals in the forest were inundated.

'No freshwater source now exists from where animals can drink,' said Mihir.

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[Saif]

Is Bangladesh prepared for a major earthquake?

A 5.5 magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale rattled Bangladesh on the evening of May 29, sending tremors through major cities.

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Is Bangladesh prepared for a major earthquake?

A 5.5 magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale rattled Bangladesh on the evening of May 29, sending tremors through major cities like Dhaka, Sylhet, and Chattogram according to Bangladesh Meteorological Department. The epicentre was located roughly 439 km east in neighbouring Myanmar.

Bangladesh, a nation teeming with life, sits precariously on a geological fault line. While tremors are frequent, a powerful earthquake looms large, threatening to unleash catastrophic destruction. Are we ready to face this inevitable reality? The answer, unfortunately, is a resounding no. Despite an established vulnerability, our preparedness remains woefully inadequate.

Bangladesh's geological formation and tectonic arrangement are intricate, with the Bengal Basin being a dynamic deltaic depositional complex. The country is situated at the confluence of Indian, East Asian, and Burmese tectonic plates, with the Eurasian plate currently moving north at a speed of 2 cm per year above the Indian plate, while the Indian plate is currently moving northeast at a speed of about 6 cm per year. Along the boundary between Meghalaya and Bangladesh, there is also the 300 km Dauki fault, the 150 km long Madhupur fault, and the 300 km long Surma basin fault. Bangladesh has 13 earthquake-prone areas spread across the Bogura, Tripura, Shilong Plateau, Dauki, and Assam fault zones. Extreme risk zones include Chattogram, Chittagong Hill Tracts, and Jaintiapur of Sylhet. These areas are 100 km away from Dhaka, but a magnitude 7-8 earthquake could cause a large-scale disaster in the capital, as revealed in a study by Dhaka University and Columbia University, USA.

Over the past 485 years, Bangladesh has experienced 52 earthquakes of mild, moderate, and severe intensities within its territory, with 17 of them occurring in the last year alone, according to the earthquake observation centre of the geology department at Dhaka University. In the last12 years, eight earthquakes have been recorded in Dhaka and the surrounding areas. On February 6, 2023, a 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Turkey caused over 50,000 deaths, significant damage to around 230,000 buildings, and a financial loss of $100 billion. Unplanned urbanisation, poor construction materials, insufficient inspection processes, and illegal construction were the primary causes of the destruction. These factors are also prevalent in urban development and building construction practices in Bangladesh.​

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[Saif]

Earth: Our only home, our responsibility

It is crucial for us to acknowledge that our actions have profound consequences on this planet

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Earth: Our only home, our responsibility

Photo : REUTERS

The fragile beauty of Earth is a poetic reminder of the intricate balance that sustains all life on our planet. From the expansive oceans to the verdant forests and majestic mountains, every facet of our natural world contributes harmoniously to the symphony of existence. The intricate ecosystems brimming with a diverse array of flora and fauna underscore the resilience and interconnectedness of all living organisms.

However, the swift pace of human activities, which are causing deforestation, pollution, and climate change, poses a severe threat to Earth's delicate beauty. It is crucial for us to acknowledge that our actions have profound consequences on this planet, and to assume responsibility for preserving and safeguarding this irreplaceable home for future generations.

Environmental conservation transcends mere moral obligation; it is an essential prerequisite for the survival of our planet and its inhabitants. The well-being of humanity is directly linked to the health of our ecosystems, encompassing clean air, water, and fertile soil for agriculture. Through the preservation of biodiversity and protection of natural habitats, we ensure that the delicate balance within our ecosystem remains undisturbed, enhancing resilience against environmental perils such as climate change.

Moreover, environmental conservation plays a pivotal role in securing the ability of future generations to flourish on Earth. By taking proactive measures to curb pollution, conserve resources, and mitigate habitat destruction now, we are investing in a sustainable future for all life forms on this planet. Each individual endeavour towards environmental conservation contributes significantly towards fostering a more symbiotic relationship between humankind and the natural world—one that prioritises reverence for the environment and ensures enduring prosperity for all living entities.

Amid mounting evidence showcasing the undeniable impacts of climate change, we must acknowledge the urgency surrounding this global crisis. Rising sea levels, extreme weather phenomena, and ecological shifts are no longer distant anticipations but tangible realities confronting us today. The accelerated pace at which environmental degradation is unfolding necessitates immediate action from individuals, communities, and nations alike.

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[Saif]

Bangladesh needs $876b to implement climate action plans: Saber

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury today said Bangladesh needs US$ 876 billion to implement its ambitious climate action plans and that is why international cooperation is crucial in this regard..He said the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) of the country

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Bangladesh needs $876b to implement climate action plans: Saber

Photo: BSS

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury today said Bangladesh needs US$ 876 billion to implement its ambitious climate action plans and that is why international cooperation is crucial in this regard.

He said the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) of the country estimates an investment of US$ 230 billion for adaptation till 2050.

The environment minister said this while speaking at an inaugural function of a three-day workshop organised by the Economic Relations Division (ERD) held in BRAC CDM, Savar.

Additionally, he said, implementation of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) requires US$ 175 billion.

"The Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan (MCPP) and the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 estimate that US$ 471.72 billion will be required to implement the identified priority projects," he said.

"Partnership is fundamental. For coordination among the development partners, the government formed Bangladesh Climate Development Partnership," he said.

Saber Chowdhury said climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is an economic, social and developmental issue that affects every sector of the society.

"Mobilising climate finance is essential to support our transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy. We must leverage private sector investments, international climate funds, and innovative financing mechanisms. We need to build robust institutional frameworks and enhance our technical capacities to effectively access, manage, and deploy climate finance," he said.

He said the developed countries have a moral and legal responsibility to support developing countries in their climate actions.

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[Saif]

https://www.thedailystar.net/opinion/editorial/news/sundarbans-must-be-left-alone-recover-3626856

Sundarbans must be left alone to recover
Alarming rise of resort business surrounding it should be checked

VISUAL: STAR

The heavy battering that the Sundarbans took while trying to fend off fierce winds and tidal surges that came along with Cyclone Remal is beginning to be clearer. The forest department estimates infrastructural damage worth over Tk 6 crore within the forest. But that may be the tip of the iceberg as the real damage—caused to its biodiversity—is impossible to quantify. The forest floor lies covered with uprooted trees and foliage, with animal carcasses being discovered every day. Experts say it might need 30-40 years to restore its natural balance. What, then, the Sundarbans requires is to be left alone to recuperate, not further assaults from the very people it protects.

Yet, that may be precisely what's in store for the forest, with an alarming rise of resort business surrounding it in recent years. As per a report by Prothom Alo, resorts are being built close to the Sundarbans, some extending into its rivers, despite environmental laws prohibiting construction or activities detrimental to the forest within 10 kilometres of it. So far, some 14 resorts have been built in Khulna and Satkhira by cutting down trees and filling up canals and low-lying areas, with eight more under construction. These resorts often operate generators and air conditioning systems, causing noise, water, light, and soil pollution, as well as disturbing and even driving away the wildlife.

Since 2021, the number of resorts has increased fourfold to accommodate an ever-growing number of tourists. If the trend holds, experts fear it may not be long before the Sundarbans meets the fate of the heavily degraded Bhawal Forest in Gazipur. It's an irony that while the Sundarbans stands as our first line of defence against natural disasters in coastal regions, we are failing to defend it from our own actions. True, the rise in so-called community-based ecotourism has brought some benefits to local populations. But the lack of environmental scrutiny has meant that it has been totally unsustainable. The risk comes not just from resorts and cottages alone.

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[Saif]

The environment is in peril. Act now.

Our actions to protect the environment should not be confined to just one day.

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The environment is in peril. Act now.

In Satkhira and Patuakhali, drinking water is a significant challenge due to its high salt content. Photo: AFP

We recently travelled to a couple of villages in Satkhira and Patuakhali, and stayed there for a few days during a heatwave. The electricity frequently went out, leaving us without fans or air conditioning. The stillness of the air made it unbearable, and almost everyone became tired and sick. Women, who cook and take care of families, and those who were out for work—rickshaw pullers, farmers, people with disabilities, and the elderly—suffered the most.

In Satkhira and Patuakhali, drinking water is a significant challenge due to its high salt content. The declining water table has rendered normal tube wells ineffective, leaving only deep tube wells functional. Consequently, many families are forced to purchase water, which is expensive. Many people cannot consume the necessary amount of water, leading to dehydration and various illnesses such as heat stroke, high blood pressure, and skin diseases. Women and adolescent girls are particularly affected, with their sexual and reproductive health at risk. The situation has also exacerbated gender-based violence. Women and girls spend two to three hours collecting a single bucket of water, often facing sexual abuse and having to drop out of school.

A UNICEF-WHO report from 2023 highlights that globally, 1.8 billion people live in households without water supplies on the premises. In seven out of 10 such households, women and girls aged 15 and older are primarily responsible for water collection, compared to three in 10 households for their male peers. Girls under 15 (seven percent) are also more likely than boys under 15 (four percent) to fetch water. Women and girls typically undertake longer journeys to collect water, losing valuable time for education, work, and leisure, while also risking physical injury and danger.

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[Saif]

Forests in Bangladesh are disappearing when we need them most

The rate of deforestation in Bangladesh is almost double the global average due to land use change and human activities.

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Forests in Bangladesh are disappearing when we need them most

Bangladesh was once known for its lush greenery and biodiversity. But at present, the country faces significant challenges in preserving its forests, with the rate of deforestation almost double the global average due to land use change and human activities. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Bangladesh's forest cover is estimated to be 2.33 million hectares (15.78 percent of land), whereas the Forest Department says it is 2.57 million hectares (17.31 percent of land).

Over the past two decades, Bangladesh has witnessed a concerning loss of 8,390 hectares of humid primary forest, accounting for 3.5 percent of all tree cover depletion during this time. The country saw a significant decrease of 8.7 percent in the total area of humid primary forest.

Land use change, primarily driven by agricultural expansion, urbanisation and infrastructure development, has led to the degradation and fragmentation of forest lands in Bangladesh.

While agriculture is a cornerstone of our economy, finding a balance between agricultural productivity and forest conservation is crucial. According to a report in 1973, at least 9,749.98 hectares of Madhupur forest was completely covered with sal forest, whereas in 2015 the forest converted to acacia, pineapple, rubber, banana plantation, mixed forestry, agriculture and marsh, leaving only 2,671.99 hectares of actual sal forest. Initiated in 1989-1990 with ADB funding, social forestry cleared natural sal forests for exotic eucalyptus and acacia plantations of around 5,000 acres. In recent years, the Chittagong Hill Tract (CHT) forests have been illegally razed for cassava farming, destroying rich biodiversity.

Social forestry initiatives, which involve planting fast-growing species like eucalyptus and acacia, aim to meet the demand for timber and fuelwood. However, these plantations are usually harvested within a short period, raising concerns about their long-term sustainability and ecological benefits compared to natural forests. These fast-growing species of trees tend to dominate their locales, preventing ecological and biodiversity balance. Eucalyptus consumes 18-20 times more water than many other species and can negatively impact the water table. In areas with more limited rainfall, such as in northern Bangladesh and along the Barind Tract, this exacerbates environmental impacts.

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[Saif]

Bangladesh among global leaders in coastal afforestation: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said Bangladesh is one of the pioneers in coastal afforestation, with 261,570 hectares of coastal areas now forested

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Bangladesh among global leaders in coastal afforestation: PM

File photo

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said Bangladesh is one of the pioneers in coastal afforestation, with 261,570 hectares of coastal areas now forested.

"In the world, Bangladesh is one of the pioneers in coastal afforestation. As of now, the afforestation has been created in some 261,570 hectares in the coastal areas. We've created a green belt of 89,853 hectares since 2009," she said.

The prime minister made these remarks at the World Environment Day-2024 event at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) in the capital.

She also inaugurated the Environment Fair-2024, the National Campaign for Tree Plantation, and the Tree Fair-2024.

This year's World Environment Day is themed 'Land Restoration, Stopping Desertification, and Building Drought Resilience,' with the slogan 'Our land. Our future. We are #GenerationRestoration.'

The PM urged citizens to plant trees in all available spaces, including offices, mosques, and rooftops, to gain financial benefits, reduce temperatures, and protect the environment.

"I request everyone to plant trees wherever you can…. In offices, courts, mosques, and madrasas. You will get relief from the temperature and do rooftop gardening," she said.

She emphasised the importance of planting fruit-bearing, wood, and herbal trees.

"If you plant fruit-bearing trees, you will be able to eat fruits, and if you plant wood trees, you will get good money from the sale of wood," she added.

The prime minister inaugurated the Tree Plantation Campaign by planting two saplings – Palash and Bel (wood apple) trees – under the theme 'Decorate the country with trees, enrich Bangladesh' (Brikkha Diye Sajai Desh, Samriddhi Kori Bangladesh).​

 

[Saif]

Special satellite imagery to guide tree planting in Dhaka: Saber

To improve urban greenery and sustainability, special satellite imagery is being developed to determine places for tree plantations in Dhaka

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Special satellite imagery to guide tree planting in Dhaka: Saber

Photo: UNB

To improve urban greenery and sustainability, special satellite imagery is being developed to determine places for tree plantations in Dhaka.

In an exclusive interview, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury shared the plan details.

"To develop a comprehensive afforestation plan for Dhaka, we are working in coordination with the Local Government Division, the ministries of public works and health, RAJUK, and both city corporations," the minister said.

"We are strategising on the areas we can reforest and the types of trees we can plant. Discussions have already been held with both city corporation mayors, and work has started."

Saber highlighted the loss of green spaces and water bodies in Dhaka, stressing the need to incorporate these elements into urban development plans.

"A healthy and liveable city requires a certain level of greenery. Areas with more trees tend to have lower temperatures. Thus, we aim to implement an urban forestry project in Dhaka to maintain tolerable temperature levels."

He also noted that satellite images, specifically for Dhaka, are being created for this initiative.

"We can determine the percentage of green spaces needed, but we are unsure if we can effectively match the global standards in Bangladesh, especially for densely populated cities like Dhaka. However, we are making some progress," he added.

The minister also emphasised the critical role of climate action plans in creating a cleaner, greener, and more vibrant Dhaka.

Despite having two city corporations, the climate action plan will be implemented as a unified strategy for the entire city. This approach aims to mitigate the impacts of climate change in the urban area, home to over 20 million people.

He further mentioned ensuring enhanced coordination among ministries to tackle climate change effectively.

Calling on partnering countries to support Bangladesh in its fight against climate change, Saber committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure a bright and green future.

"We believe we can meet the minimum environmental requirements, as failing to do so will compromise Dhaka's liveability."

Pointing at RAJUK's Purbachal project, where 140 acres of land have been reserved for afforestation, Saber said, "If concrete structures take up all the spaces in the region, we won't have any left to create green zones."​

 

[Saif]

আদালতের নির্দেশ স্বত্ত্বেও সুন্দরবনে বন্ধ হচ্ছে না ‘সিঙ্গেল ইউজ প্লাস্টিক’

এ বিষয়ে এখনই কোনো কার্যকর ব্যবস্থা না নিলে এর ভয়াবহতা আরও বাড়বে।

bangla.thedailystar.net

আদালতের নির্দেশ স্বত্ত্বেও সুন্দরবনে বন্ধ হচ্ছে না 'সিঙ্গেল ইউজ প্লাস্টিক'
এ বিষয়ে এখনই কোনো কার্যকর ব্যবস্থা না নিলে এর ভয়াবহতা আরও বাড়বে।

প্লাস্টিক দূষণে হুমকিতে সুন্দরবনের জীববৈচিত্র্য। ছবি: স্টার

সাম্প্রতিক বছরগুলোতে সুন্দরবন ও এর আশেপাশের নদী-খালগুলোতে একবার ব্যবহারযোগ্য প্লাস্টিক ব্যবহার ব্যাপকভাবে বেড়েছে।

সংশ্লিষ্ট কর্তৃপক্ষের যথাযথ তদারকির অভাবে এই প্লাস্টিকের ব্যবহার কোনোভাবেই কমিয়ে আনা যাচ্ছে না। তাছাড়া ব্যবহারকারীদের অসচেতনতার অভাবে সুন্দরবনসহ উপকূলীয় অঞ্চলে সিঙ্গেল ইউজ প্লাস্টিকের ব্যবহার দিনদিন আরও বৃদ্ধি পাচ্ছে। ব্যবহারের উপযোগিতা ও সহজলভ্য হওয়ায় এটি এখন নিত্য ব্যবহার্য পণ্য হিসেবে বিবেচিত হচ্ছে।

পরিবেশবাদী ও বিশেষজ্ঞরা বলছেন, এ বিষয়ে এখনই কোনো কার্যকর ব্যবস্থা না নিলে এর ভয়াবহতা আরও বাড়বে।

দেশের উপকূলীয় এলাকার হোটেল, মোটেল ও রেস্তোরাঁয় একবার ব্যবহারের পর বর্জ্য হয়ে যায় এমন প্লাস্টিক সামগ্রীর ব্যবহার বন্ধের নির্দেশনা আছে হাইকোর্টের। কিন্তু এ নির্দেশনা অনুযায়ী সংশ্লিষ্ট কর্তৃপক্ষের যথাযথ তৎপরতার অভাবে এটি কার্যকর করা যাচ্ছে না।

যেসব প্লাস্টিক পণ্য একবার ব্যবহারের পর আর কোনো কাজে লাগে না, সেগুলোই সিঙ্গেল ইউজ প্লাস্টিক হিসেবে বিবেচিত হয়।

২০২০ সালের জানুয়ারিতে পরিবেশ অধিদপ্তরকে ২০২১ সালের মধ্যে এ ধরনের প্লাস্টিকের ব্যবহার বন্ধ করতে আদেশ দেন হাইকোর্ট। ইতোমধ্যে তিন বছর কেটে গেলেও এ বিষয়ে দৃশ্যমান তেমন কোনো অগ্রগতি হয়নি।

ছবি: স্টার
খুলনা নগরীর দৌলতপুরের হোটেল ব্যবসায়ী নুরুজ্জামান শেখ দ্য ডেইলি স্টারকে বলেন, '৪-৫ বছর আগেও সিঙ্গেল প্লাস্টিকের ব্যবহার সেভাবে ছিল না। কিন্তু ক্রেতাদের চাহিদার কথা বিবেচনা করে আমি এখন এটি ব্যবহার করি। যদিও আমি নিজস্ব ব্যবস্থাপনায় খুলনা করপোরেশনের নতুন রাস্তা মোড়ের এসটিএস (সেকেন্ডারি ট্রান্সফার প্ল্যান্ট) প্ল্যান্টে ফেলে আসি।'

'করোনার সময় থেকে অধিকাংশ গ্রাহক একবার ব্যবহার উপযোগী প্লাস্টিকের গ্লাস দিতে অনুরোধ করেন, অনেকেই আবার একবার ব্যবহার করা প্লেট চান। ব্যবসার কথা বিবেচনা করে আমি এসব ব্যবহার করি। আর সত্যি কথা বলতে এগুলো পরিষ্কার করার কোনো ঝামেলা থাকে না। শ্রম কম লাগে, ব্যয়ও হয় কম,' বলেন তিনি।

শুধু খুলনা সিটি করপোরেশন এলাকার লবণচরা, টুটপাড়া, রূপসা, ফুলবাড়ি গেট অঞ্চলে কমপক্ষে ১৫-১৬টি প্লাস্টিকের কারখানা আছে। দিনে এসব কারখানা বন্ধ থাকে। চালু হয় গভীর রাতে। আর এখান থেকে বিভিন্ন হাতে ক্রেতাদের কাছে পৌঁছে যায় প্লাস্টিক।

স্থানীয় সূত্রে জানা গেছে, প্লাস্টিকের সবচেয়ে বড় মোকাম খুলনার বড়বাজার। এখান থেকে খুলনা জেলা ও এর আশেপাশের জেলাগুলোতে সিঙ্গেল প্লাস্টিকের বিভিন্ন আইটেম ছড়িয়ে পড়ছে। সেগুলো বিভিন্ন নদী-খাল হয়ে সুন্দরবনে প্রবেশ করছে।

To read the rest of the news, please click on the link above.​

 

[Saif]

Need combined effort to protect environment

The government alone cannot protect the country’s environment, and a combined effort is needed in this regard, said speakers at an event on Thursday.

www.thedailystar.net

Need combined effort to protect environment
Speakers tell seminar

The government alone cannot protect the country's environment, and a combined effort is needed in this regard, said speakers at an event on Thursday.

Eighteen green organisations -- including Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon, Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association, Association for Land Reform and Development, and Nagorik Uddyog -- organised the seminar at the Department of Environment auditorium in the capital.

Lawmaker Amatul Kibria Keya Chowdhury said political and administrative leaders are responsible for environmental destruction, not the poor.

Amatul emphasised the need for proper planning in haor development to prevent floods and called for accountability among officials.

Lawmaker Tanvir Shakil Joy said raising awareness among the people is important. He also called for an increased national budget for environmental protection.

DoE Director General Abdul Hamid said environmental impact assessments for sand mining leases would be conducted in the future, along with plans to amend the Environment Act to ensure stricter regulations.

Bapa Vice President Iqbal Habib said, "Rajuk's role should be to protect the capital's land, but often the authorities act like developers."-​

 

[Saif]

Chalan beel is fast degrading to a tipping point

Protecting the beel and its network of waterbodies is vital

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Chalan beel is fast degrading to a tipping point
Protecting the beel and its network of waterbodies is vital

VISUAL: STAR

It is appalling how we have allowed unplanned development, encroachment, dumping of waste, and over-extraction of groundwater to strangle life out of the largest wetland of the country: the Chalan beel. The beel once provided subsistence to thousands of farmers and fishers in North Bengal. But in just over a century, according to a report by this daily, its size has reduced from 1,085 square kilometres to a mere 168 sq km, with its biodiversity largely destroyed and groundwater sources almost depleted.

The gradual decline of many of the rivers and canals that feed water into the beel caused its alarming decline. Those rivers too have been subjected to encroachment, construction of unplanned sluice gates, and mindless waste dumping. Lack of dredging is another issue. Despite repeated media reports in this regard, no effective measures have been taken by the government. Instead, the government itself built structures and set up projects, especially on Boral river's land, the main water source of Chalan beel. Although some ad hoc steps were taken to remove some of the structures on the Boral, based on a 2018 study by the water resources ministry, no long-term coordinated action has been taken to restore the navigability of the river, and consequently, the beel continued to dry up.

Several government agencies are responsible for the protection of our rivers and wetlands. It is, however, clear that no one is doing their job right. While the ill-equipped Department of Environment has done nothing to protect the biodiversity of Chalan beel, the fisheries and livestock ministry did not think twice before giving permission for pond excavation and fish farming. No action was taken to penalise illegal enclosures harming the beel's natural environment. The local administration and other responsible agencies too kept on turning a blind eye to the unplanned roads, bridges, culverts, regulators and sluice gates constructed through the beel and its network. Unfortunately, it is not the only victim of the government's sheer apathy in protecting our wetlands. We have seen several other beels being subjected to the same fate.

This needs to stop. Government agencies must work together, and develop and implement long-term projects to save this precious wetland and others. They must also preserve the networks of rivers and wetlands breathing life into our delta.​

 

[Saif]

Part of Cox’s Bazar now sanctuary for marine species

The 2.91 kilometre “Bori Beach”, which was inaugurated today, will be off-limits to locals and tourists

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Part of Cox's Bazar now sanctuary for marine species

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed/Star

A part of Cox's Bazar sea beach has been announced as the sanctuary for marine species.

The 2.91 kilometre "Bori Beach", which was inaugurated today, will be off-limits to locals and tourists.

The beach would be hundred percent clean and plastic free and used for research on marine life and the blue economy.

Bangladesh Ocean Research Institute (BORI) will take care of the beach, stretching from Sonarpara to Reju canal under Ukhiya upazila of Cox's Bazar.

The district administration handed over the authority of the beach to Bori after an event organised to celebrate World Ocean Day.

Ali Hossain, secretary to the Ministry of Science and Technology, inaugurated the beach at Sonarpara area this afternoon.

BORI Director General Professor Touhida Rashid said, "This beach will only be used as a model for research work. We have no conflict with tourism. This beach will be a safe habitat for biodiversity. No one will disturb the marine life here. This beach will be 100% clean and plastic free. BORI will maintain the beach."

Khurshed Alam, secretary of the Marine Affairs Unit of the foreign ministry; Professor Dr Benu Kumar Dey, Vice-Chancellor of Chittagong University; Aftab Ali, Chairman of Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR); Cox's Bazar Superintendent of Police Mahfuzul Islam also participated in the event among others.​