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

[Saif]

'Blue network' of canals

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, environment, forest and climate as well as water resources adviser of the interim government comes up with her government's plan to create what she calls a 'blue network' with proper use of canals -- both already in existence and to be reclaimed. The adviser might have used the

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'Blue network' of canals
Published :
Sep 30, 2024 23:08
Updated :
Sep 30, 2024 23:08

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, environment, forest and climate as well as water resources adviser of the interim government comes up with her government's plan to create what she calls a 'blue network' with proper use of canals -- both already in existence and to be reclaimed. The adviser might have used the expression 'blue network' to refer to the creation of an extensive network of pollution-free water carrying canals in the capital city. The purpose is to make the capital city liveable through greening, bio-diversity conservation and wetland preservation. On all those counts, there is no doubt about the intention of the staunch environmental campaigner which she exactly is.

However, a few questions need to be answered before the environmental agendas she underscores to pursue while she stays in her position. Here are two distinct aspects of serious concern. One is liveability and the other is not just preservation of bio-diversity but also improvement of the overall environment of the city. Involved with healthy liveability are a host of issues including infrastructure, transport systems and even civic sense and routine practice by the urban population. Unplanned growth of concrete structures with little green and open space such as playgrounds, parks and lakes excepting a rare few exclusive zones has turned this city into a veritable sprawling slum. After excavation of drains further deeper, the city cannot flush out accumulated rain waters even after a moderate shower. Its transportation system and transports -- black fume-spewing buses, lagunas, trucks, covered vans and pickups -- are one of the worst in the world.

The mayors including the last two have also made tall promises so far as improvement of the city's physical environment is concerned. Reclamation of canals from illegal occupation and revival of their water flows and plantation of trees on their banks formed part of their campaign. Each of them can legitimately claim some credit for accomplishing a few appreciable programmes. The early success in removing the truck stand from Tejgaon, reclamation of a few canals in both north and south city corporations were indeed praiseworthy. But all those fell through because of a lack of a comprehensive plan. Regular monitoring and maintenance are the key to success in case of such public property.

So the concern here now is about the tenure of the interim government. Most likely it will not get the time for execution of the envisaged programmes. First, reclamation of canals is not under the jurisdiction of the environment ministry; second, even if the ministry and department concerned cooperate in reclaiming the water bodies, it is a time-consuming matter. Therefore it would be advisable to undertake a cleaning and excavating programme for the reclaimed canals and other existing water bodies. If the water flows in those can be augmented and maintained, the plan for reclamation of other canals can be devised for the next elected government to take up. Sustainable greening of the canal banks, as well as fallow lands on roadsides of the city proper can be started right now.​

 

[Saif]

Study finds disparities in climate financing

Over 50 percent of the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund, worth Tk 2,095 crore, was allocated to infrastructure development during the tenure of the former Awami League government, a new study has found

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Study finds disparities in climate financing

Representational image. Photo: Freepik

Over 50 percent of the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund, worth Tk 2,095 crore, was allocated to infrastructure development during the tenure of the former Awami League government, a new study has found.

Presented at an event titled "Distributive Justice in Bangladesh's Climate Finance: Challenges and Recommendations for Policy Takeaway," organised by the Centre for Participatory Research and Development (CPRD) and HEKS/EPER, the study revealed significant disparities in climate financing.

The research, conducted across Dinajpur, Thakurgaon, Chapainawabganj, Naogaon, and Kurigram, analysed 790 BCCTF projects from FY 2008-2009 to FY 2022-2023, and 262 National Climate Budget-funded projects. It found a disproportionate allocation of funds, with Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions receiving only 143 BCCTF projects, compared to 281 in the coastal divisions.

The study criticised the focus on infrastructure and disaster-driven vulnerabilities, with less attention to areas suffering from slow-onset climate events, particularly drought. Of the national climate budget projects, only 63 were implemented in the drought-prone Barind areas.

From FY 2009-2010 to FY 2022-2023, more than 50 percent of BCCTF funds were spent on infrastructure, while only 0.89 percent, or Tk 32.24 crore, was allocated to "integrated disaster management."

CPRD Chief Executive Shamsudohha called for reform of the "Climate Change Trust Act - 2010," recommending outcome-focused allocation criteria for BCCTF and the National Climate Budget.

Corinne Henchoz Pignani, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Switzerland, emphasised the importance of localised approaches, stating that "humanity is the most important dimension" in climate finance decisions.​

 

[Saif]

E-waste a growing concern in Khulna

Electronic waste, or e-waste, is rapidly becoming a menace for Khulna city dwellers due to Khulna City Corporation’s lack of facilities to manage this type of waste.

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E-waste a growing concern in Khulna

Electronic waste, or e-waste, is rapidly becoming a menace for Khulna city dwellers due to Khulna City Corporation's lack of facilities to manage this type of waste.

These discarded electronic items, including worn-off TVs, fridges, computers, mobile phones, and cables, among others, often contain non-biodegradable and hazardous components that pose severe environmental and health concerns.

According to KCC data, around 1,200–1,400 tonnes of waste are produced in the city daily. Of this, 800-900 tonnes are collected and dumped at designated sites, while the remaining 400-500 tonnes often end up being abandoned in the open, clogging drains and polluting waterbodies.

Of the total waste produced in the city daily, around 5-8 tonnes are e-waste, including expired batteries from around 25,000 battery-run rickshaws and 42,000 easy-bikes that run in the city.

Experts opined that city authorities must adapt and develop robust, effective systems to manage e-waste and safeguard the environment and public health, as these are bound to proliferate in quantity over time due to technological advancement.

Around 400 small and large shops in the city are engaged in trading scrap materials, including discarded electronic items.

Iqbal Jahid, who has been running such a shop in Sheikhpara area for past 25 years, said they sort and sell all types of electronic scrap, ranging from mobile phones to electric motors.

"No one in this market uses any protective gear for sorting these items,'' he added.

Shirajul Mia, a vendor who buys e-waste from door-to-door in the city and sells those to different scrap shops, said they recycle the collected waste as much as possible.

"Firstly, we separate and clean the valuable components for sale. The rest are sold as scraps and do not fetch much value," he said.

"I burn the cables to remove the copper and throw the rest. I've developed rashes in my hands while doing this work," he added.

Workers in scrap material businesses often face health issues such as rashes and other complications due to the harmful substances they have to encounter.

Professor Dr Abdullah Harun Chowdhury, head of the Department of Environmental Sciences at Khulna University, said e-waste contains various toxic compounds, including lead, cadmium, and mercury, which are harmful to people, animals, and the environment.

"The toxic compounds, like mercury, can pollute the environment and waterbodies in numerous ways, affecting soil and water quality, and consequently the flora and fauna that are dependent on these resources,'' he added.

Dr SM Farid Uz Zaman, former head of psychiatry department of Khulna Medical College Hospital, said the toxic elements found in e-waste can pose risks of devastating health hazards.

"Lead exposure can severely impact the nervous systems of newborns and children, while mercury can damage the brain and adversely impact cognitive functions. The health risks are exacerbated for those handling e-waste without proper protective gear,'' he added.

Contacted, Md Anisur Rahman, chief waste management officer of KCC, said a project on integrated waste management is underway.

"The Tk 52.70 crore project titled 'Integrated Landfill and Resource Recovery Facility-Shalua' is part of the Second City Region Development Project of Local Government Engineering Department and financed by the Asian Development Bank," he said.

"Once implemented, this facility will improve the segregation and management of all types of waste, including e-waste, and incorporate a more systematic approach to waste treatment,'' he added.​

 

[Saif]

Adaptation strategies for climate change impacts in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has been proactive in its efforts to combat the impacts of climate change.

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Adaptation strategies for climate change impacts in Bangladesh
climate change adaptation strategies in Bangladesh

The coastal regions, home to millions, are facing erosion and salinisation, rendering fertile land unsuitable for agriculture. FILE PHOTO: ZIAUL HAQUE OISHARJH

The World Risk Index 2023 ranks Bangladesh ninth worldwide for climate disaster risk. By 2050, Bangladesh will lose 17 percent of its territory due to rising sea levels, resulting in the loss of 30 percent of the country's agricultural land. The rise in sea levels in coastal areas is prompting mass migration into cities, further straining the country's resources. With a disaster risk score of 27.29, Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to natural hazards such as floods, cyclones, and coastal erosion.

Coastal erosion and rising sea levels

Bangladesh's geography makes it especially prone to the impacts of climate change. With a flat landscape and a significant portion of the country lying below five meters above sea level, rising sea levels present a dire threat. The coastal regions, home to millions, are facing erosion and salinisation, rendering fertile land unsuitable for agriculture. A projected loss of 17 percent of Bangladesh's landmass would displace millions of people, many of whom depend on agriculture and fishing for their livelihood.

To address these challenges, the Bangladeshi government has taken the lead in integrating migration into its climate adaptation strategies. Government funding, combined with international support, has focused on providing climate-vulnerable communities with more secure housing and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Initiatives have targeted areas along the coast and encouraged internal migration to secondary cities, such as Mongla, in an attempt to reduce pressure on major urban centres. Notably, former UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and Patrick V Verkooijen, head of the Global Center on Climate Adaptation, have praised Bangladesh as a "global pioneer in preparing for climate migrants."

Agricultural disruption and migration pressures

Climate change is severely disrupting Bangladesh's agricultural sector, the backbone of its economy. The erratic rainfall patterns and more frequent cyclones have caused significant damage to crops. Farmers are struggling to cope with changes to traditional growing seasons, and the increasing salinity of soil in coastal regions is reducing the yield of key crops like rice. As a result, food insecurity is becoming an alarming issue.

This disruption has contributed to internal migration, as families leave rural areas in search of better opportunities. Although most climate-related displacement in Bangladesh remains internal, neighbouring India has also become a destination for migrants, compounding broader migration pressures rooted in cultural, historical, and economic factors. However, international agreements addressing the legal status of climate refugees remain absent, leaving many migrants vulnerable to legal and employment challenges. India's proposed Climate Migrants (Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill 2022, though not yet passed, signals a growing recognition of the issue. The bill sought to create a legal framework to protect climate migrants, ensuring access to employment, education, and other services. While the legislation stalled, it reflects the region's need for coordinated responses to climate migration.

Urban vulnerability: The strain on Dhaka

As rural communities migrate to cities to escape climate impacts, Dhaka, already one of the world's most densely populated cities, is struggling to cope. The capital city is experiencing frequent flash floods due to unplanned urban development and a poor drainage system. As a result, waterlogging has become a regular occurrence during the monsoon season, disrupting the lives of millions. In addition to floods, Dhaka faces extreme heat, exacerbated by the urban heat island effect. With minimal green spaces and insufficient infrastructure to handle the surging population, the city's resilience to climate impacts is being tested.

Government-led adaptation efforts

Bangladesh has been proactive in its efforts to combat the impacts of climate change. The Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (BCCSAP) serves as the country's blueprint for adaptation and resilience. This plan includes significant investments in flood defences, early warning systems, and disaster shelters. Over the years, Bangladesh has gained international recognition for its disaster preparedness, especially in reducing cyclone-related deaths through improved warning systems and the construction of cyclone shelters. Despite these efforts, the magnitude of the climate crisis is making it increasingly difficult to keep up. Bangladesh, as a developing country, faces constraints in terms of finance and technical resources. Many of its adaptation projects remain underfunded, with gaps in data and knowledge limiting the effectiveness of some interventions.

International support and future prospects

To address the climate crisis, Bangladesh needs more than local efforts. The country has been a vocal advocate for climate finance, urging developed nations to fulfil their commitments to the Green Climate Fund and other international support mechanisms. Global cooperation is crucial, especially as Bangladesh's adaptation efforts require substantial investments. At the international level, Bangladesh is actively involved in climate diplomacy, advocating for more ambitious targets to curb global temperature rise and support vulnerable nations like itself. The Global Goal on Adaptation, a key outcome of the Paris Agreement, aims to enhance the resilience of nations like Bangladesh through financial and technical support.

Dr Rejaul Karim is an associate professor in the Department of Business Administration at Varendra University.

Abdul Waaje is a graduate student of the School of Business at Michigan Technological University.

Md Mustaqim Roshid is an MBA student in the Department of Management Studies at Rajshahi University.​

 

[Saif]

Tigers in the Sundarbans increase by 11, now 125 in total

The number of tigers in the country has increased by 11 over the past six years. The forest department found this figure by running a survey in the only habitation of tigers in the country, the Sundarbans.

en.prothomalo.com

Tigers in the Sundarbans increase by 11, now 125 in total
Iftekhar Mahmud
Dhaka
Published: 09 Oct 2024, 09: 00

Photograph of tigers captured on camera traps in Chadpai Sharankhola area of the Sundarbans.Report from Bangladesh Forest Department

The number of tigers in the country has increased by 11 over the past six years. The forest department found this figure by conducting a survey in the Sundarbans, the only habitation of tigers in the country. The number of tigers increased the most in Khulna district.

Meanwhile, there has been a decline in that number in the Satkhira portion of the forest. People involved with the study believe that the number of tigers decreased in that area due to poachers and the decline in tiger prey (deer).

The forest department officially released the actual number of tigers and a report on this matter Tuesday. The survey was conducted in the Sundarbans during January, April and November of last year and in March this year.

That survey was conducted on a 2,240 square kilometres area of the Sundarbans. A total of 657 cameras were installed there. Whenever tigers passed by those cameras, they automatically took photographs of the tigers. Out of the total 31,482 photographs taken by those cameras, there were 7,297 photographs of tigers.

Other than the cameras, a spot survey was carried out on 1,306 kilometres of area on the banks of canals in the Sundarbans. The exact number and population density of the tigers were determined by counting the pug marks of tigers in these canals.


On average, the existence of 2.62 tigers has been found in the survey within every 100 square kilometres of area. Photographs of a total of 84 tigers were captured on cameras. The remaining 41 tigers were found by surveying the canals.

A cub with it's mother at Sharankhola area of the Sundarbans.Report from Bangladesh Forest Department

When asked about the results of the tiger survey, chief conservator of forests Amir Hossain Chowdhury told Prothom Alo, “The number of tigers has increased in the Sundarbans of Bangladesh. We are working on increasing that number even more. And we believe that’s possible with the help of all.”

However, an imbalance has been noticed in the ratio of the numbers of male and female tigers this time in Khulna part of the Sundarbans.

There were 21 females and 62 males among the 84 tigers spotted in the camera survey. And, the gender of one tiger could not be determined. Wildlife experts believe this ratio of male and female tigers to be accurate on the whole.

Meanwhile, the imbalance between the ratio of male and female tigers in Khulna range that has been found during the survey is that 12 female tigers have been found against only one male tiger in that area. That means, if that one male tiger is dead there looms a risk of the whole area being left without a male tiger.

As a result, the number of tigers in that area could decline fast in the long term. The report put emphasis on the issue of increasing the number of tigers in that area under such circumstances.

Meanwhile, the report mentioned the role of poachers as the reason behind the decline in the number of tigers in Satkhira range.

It has been found in various studies that a major portion of those poachers smuggle out tiger cubs and organs to different countries around the world. Experts believe these cubs and organs are smuggled off to the East Asian countries including China and Thailand via India and Tibet.

A cub with its mother in Khulna part of the Sundarbans.Report from Bangladesh Forest Department

However, another positive aspect regarding the number of tigers in the country has also come up in that survey. The number of tiger cubs was found to be five in the previous two surveys done in 2018 and 2015. This time the number of cubs has risen to 21 and this figure indicates that the number of tigers would increase even further in future.

According to the forest department, cameras were installed on trees 50 centimetres above the ground for the tiger survey in the Sundarbans. Whenever a tiger or another animal moves past the cameras they automatically capture photos and 10-seconds videos of them.

Then the number of tigers is determined by analysing the photographs collected through camera trapping at the resource information management system unit of the forest department. Besides, all the tigers usually come to the canals in the Sundarbans to drink water.

The tigers leave their pug marks on the banks of the canals from doing so. And, those pug marks are different based on the categories of the tigers. The number of tigers can also be counted from observing the pug marks like this.

In response to the question how the same-looking stripped tigers of the same colour living in the vast area of the Sundarbans are identified separately, director of the tiger conservation project Abu Naser Mohsin Hossain said, just as the fingerprints of one person don’t match those of another, the stripes of one tigers are also unique from that of others.

The cameras can capture hundreds of photographs of the same tiger. Exactly how many tigers are there in the Sundarbans can only be determined after collecting those photographs and analysing the data of each tiger separately on the computer software, he added.

According to sources at the forest department, the number of tigers found in the Sundarbans during the survey done in 2004 was 440. Earlier, the number of tigers mentioned in the survey conducted in 1996-97 was 350 to 400. In those two surveys, the number of tigers was determined from counting the pug marks. However, questions were raised from different quarters about the credibility of that method.

The survey from 2015 was the most modern and scientific one. That survey had found a total 106 tigers in the Bangladesh part of the Sundarbans.

Considering that figure reliable, steps were taken to increase the number of tigers later. In the previous survey of tigers in 2018, the number of tigers in the Sundarbans increased from 106 to 118.​

 

[Saif]

Biodiversity conservation requires more than just frameworks

For ecological monitoring of wildlife, Bangladesh government needs to fund and implement projects as per the new framework.

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Biodiversity conservation requires more than just frameworks
Only regular monitoring can confirm whether a conservation effort is working or not

Thanks to the monitoring, it iwas found that 60 percent of 39 waterbird species have declined in Tanguar Haor in Sunamganj during 2008-2021. FILE PHOTO: STAR

In the conservation arena, we monitor biodiversity for many reasons. For example, a group of wild animals or plants is monitored over a period of time to track their changes. Wildlife watchers all over the world do that very often and make biodiversity databases rich. In Bangladesh, we don't do that for many species, but migratory birds are a popular exception and annual counting of these species has been taking place since 1987. It is done in winter months in riverine chars, beels and haors of the north as well as on the south coast, thanks to many individuals and organisations, including Bangladesh Bird Club. Thanks to the monitoring, we learned that 60 percent of 39 waterbird species have declined in Tanguar Haor in Sunamganj during 2008-2021, as per a recent study.

Only regular monitoring can confirm whether a conservation effort is working or not. Wildlife monitoring took place under conservation projects, such as USAID-supported Nishorgo, Integrated Protected Area Co-management (IPAC), and Climate Resilient Ecosystems and Livelihoods (CREL). Wetland Biodiversity Rehabilitation Project (2009-2016) of Department of Fisheries and GIZ/Germany did something rare. It involved the International Union for Conservation of Nature to monitor the biodiversity in Pabna and Natore districts for two years (2014-2016) and then track the biodiversity changes, after the end of major project activities. IUCN, however, missed the opportunity to monitor biodiversity in the Swiss Government-funded Tanguar Haor project (2006-2016). During the project tenure, it could only publish the baseline data of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals (in 2012), plants (in 2012), and fish (in 2015) of this globally important wetland. There was a follow-up project funded by the Government of Bangladesh (2017-2018), where the main thrust was on governance, rather than on biodiversity.

Projects often establish a baseline for wildlife. The Strengthening Regional Cooperation for Wildlife Protection (SRCWP) project, for example, did that for Asian elephants and vultures. But follow-up initiatives are not usually taken to use such data. The case of the Bengal tiger is a bit different, where regular surveys are done under different donor or government programmes to estimate the total tiger number. A 2015 survey estimated 106 tigers in Bangladesh's Sundarbans, while a survey in 2018 estimated 114 tigers. The latest survey (2024) data shows there has been a slight increase and the new total tiger number is between 120 and 125.

In 2014, the tension between the government and the UNESCO's World Heritage Committee (WHC) became quite public over the Rampal Power Plant and other issues. Since then, one of the strong recommendations the WHC made to Bangladesh was to conduct ecological monitoring of this mangrove. Back in 2016-2017, an attempt was made by the forest department to initiate preliminary ecological monitoring of the Sundarbans based on primary and secondary information. After many interactions and iterations, the forest department and IUCN prepared the Methodological Framework for Ecological Monitoring of the Sundarbans (2023) under the GIZ-supported Sundarbans Management Project (SMP) II. The document was made public in July 2024.

This 192-page-long document was prepared by a group of 13 esteemed Bangladeshi experts from diverse disciplines, supported by five reviewers from the forest department. The core element of this framework is identifying an exhaustive list of suitable indicators to monitor. Biological indicators include 46 species of plants and animals, which are classified into 11 categories, while physical-chemical indicators include 17 parameters arranged in three categories. Detailed data collection, data management, and reporting protocol for each category are described in this framework. This description is followed by a detailed account of how to establish a spatial decision support system (SDSS) for the Sundarbans by data visualisation of the results produced on the above indicators.

While this framework is a milestone in biodiversity monitoring, I am not quite optimistic about its future for two reasons. First, in the final section, although 13 recommendations are presented, it is not mentioned who will coordinate and monitor the "ecological monitoring". The document mentions an Ecological Monitoring Technical Committee (EMTC) a few times without describing its meaning, composition, responsibilities and legal basis. Without clear guidelines about the EMTC's leadership position, the whole ecological monitoring process will not move a single centimetre beyond the covers of this framework book.

Second, regarding the financing of a long-term ecological monitoring, the document envisages that an initiative will be "taken under the government funding scheme under the Bangladesh Forest Department, either through projects like Surokkha or through the revenue scheme." This is an unrealistic expectation because, despite the annual push from the WHC since 2008, the government didn't spare any money to prepare this framework over 13 years, and had to seek support from the GIZ to finance it.

Back in 2011, IUCN produced a brilliant, visionary document titled Protocol for Monitoring of Impacts of Climate Change and Climate Variability in Bangladesh. As the title suggests, it was supposed to help monitor climate change impacts on eight thematic sectors, including freshwater and marine fisheries, and plants and animals of forests. This protocol has become obsolete a long time back, without being ever used, for the same two reasons I have noted above.

In Bangladesh, we are now widely talking about reforming our institutions, laws, and policies. However, what we really need is to reform our mindset and only prepare frameworks and plans for biodiversity conservation, which we can actually fund and implement.

Dr Haseeb Md Irfanullah is an independent consultant working on environment, climate change, and research system; a visiting research fellow at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB).​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh’s way forward to biodiversity conservation

Bangladesh needs to contextualise the global Biodiversity Plan to take it forward over the next decade or so.

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Bangladesh’s way forward to biodiversity conservation

Studies showed that 24 percent of animal species and 39.4 percent of plant species in Bangladesh will be extinct soon if no measures are taken to save them. FILE PHOTO: STAR

The global biodiversity is in a bad shape and a couple of numbers can confirm that: 12.5 percent of the world's eight million species will be lost forever in the next few decades; and between 1970 and 2020, big animals' numbers reduced by 68 percent. For Bangladesh, the numbers are not any better. Two studies led by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Bangladesh and the Forest Department, and supported by the World Bank, showed that 24 percent animal species (data of 2015) and 39.4 percent of plant species (data of 2023) of the country will be extinct soon, if no measures are taken to save them.

Although these numbers are relatively recent, biodiversity loss was recognised as a problem much earlier. That's why the Convention on Biological Diversity was adopted by the world in 1992, the 2010 Biodiversity Targets were set in 2002, the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity (2011-2020) and Aichi Biodiversity Targets were adopted in 2010, and in 2015, the world agreed upon the 14th and the 15th Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aiming at biodiversity conservation.

In the same vein, in December 2022 in a meeting in Montreal, Canada, the countries adopted the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to save the world's remaining biodiversity by 2050. This most ambitious-ever global plan to conserve biodiversity is also known as the "Biodiversity Plan" and has two main parts. The first part has four global goals to be achieved by 2050—protection and restoration of biodiversity, prosperity with nature, fair sharing of the benefits from biodiversity, and enhanced investment and collaboration. The second part includes 23 global targets to be achieved by 2030. The first eight targets refer to reducing threats to biodiversity, the next five talk about sustainable use and benefit-sharing to meet people's needs and the final 10 outline different tools and solutions for implementation and mainstreaming biodiversity conservation.

While many of these targets are qualitative in nature, some have ambitious numbers to fulfil. For example, Targets 2 and 3 talk about restoring 30 percent degraded ecosystems and conserving another 30 percent of diverse ecosystems, respectively. Target 18 wants to reduce harmful incentives every year by at least $500 billion, while every year $200 billion should be allocated for biodiversity from a wide range of sources as envisaged by Target 19.

I believe Bangladesh is already a part of this new global plan. Our recent legal instruments, for example, Ecologically Critical Area (ECA) Management Rule, 2016, Protected Area (PA) Management Rule, 2017, and Bangladesh Biodiversity, Act 2017, are in line with the Biodiversity Plan, and these also have provisions to create new funds for conservation actions. Species conservation action plans, such as those on vultures (2016-2025), gharials (2016-2015), tigers (2018-2027), elephants (2018-2027), dolphins (2021-2030), and sharks and rays (2023-2033), also indicate our progress in conservation planning. Numerous projects implemented since late 1990s underscore Bangladesh's participatory and co-management experience—one of the oldest and latest examples are Management of Aquatic Ecosystem through Community Husbandry (1998-2003) and Protibesh (2021-2026) projects, respectively.

I also think, in some cases, Bangladesh exceeds the Biodiversity Plan's expectations. In 2011, the 15th Amendment of the Bangladesh Constitution confirmed that preservation of biodiversity is the state's responsibility. In 2019, Bangladesh Parliament unanimously adopted a motion on "Planetary Emergency" bringing biodiversity loss and climate emergency together. In the same line, the Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan (2022-2041) and the National Adaptation Plan (NAP2050, 2023-2050) have integrated biodiversity conservation and climate change actions for dual benefits.

To take the Biodiversity Plan forward over the next decade or so, Bangladesh could take three specific actions. First, we need to contextualise it in our own way. The Department of Environment and environment ministry are currently updating the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), which should align with country's recently adopted Green and Climate Resilient Development Policy. It should mainstream our 30 years' experience of co-management of ecosystems by strongly adopting the ECA and PA Rules in all projects in and around biodiversity-rich areas. To maximise our financial resource utilisation, we should blend our climate and conservation actions. As the NAP2050 has strongly adopted Nature-based Solutions (NbS), the updated NBSAP should appreciate the climate emergency.

Second, Bangladesh should adopt evidence-guided policy making. To do that, it can establish a conservation portal for Bangladesh managed by the Forest Department to map out the portfolios of all recent-past and on-going conservation projects. In this way, we will know what to fund, where to fund, and how to fund, in real time. Finally, we need sustainable financing for conservation. By using the experience of climate budget and gender budget, the government should prepare a conservation budget through a collaboration between finance and environment ministries. Similar to Bangladesh Climate Fiscal Framework, (2020), they should also prepare Bangladesh Conservation Fiscal Framework to guide the country's conservation funding. After all, national finance will be crucial for implementing the updated NBSAP.

Dr Haseeb Md Irfanullah is independent consultant working on environment, climate change, and research system and visiting research fellow at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB).​

 

[Saif]

Climate action not a burden, but an opportunity for businesses: energy adviser

Bangladesh Apparel Exchange organised the second edition of Bangladesh Climate Action Forum 2024 today

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Climate action not a burden, but an opportunity for businesses: energy adviser
Bangladesh Apparel Exchange organised the second edition of Bangladesh Climate Action Forum 2024 today

Climate action is no longer a burden for entrepreneurs and businesses, rather it is an opportunity to enhance competitiveness, according to experts.

"Climate should be treated as a core business strategy issue, not just a compliance matter where we meet minimum standards," said M Fouzul Kabir Khan, adviser to the power, energy, and mineral resources ministry.

He was speaking today at the plenary session of the "Second edition of Bangladesh Climate Action Forum 2024," organised by the Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE) at the Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden.

Khan said the risks of climate transition, particularly the physical hazards like the recent floods, pose real threats.

Institutional investment is needed for building protective or adaptive structures and the perspective of loss and damage should be taken into consideration after any climate hazard takes place, he said.

"It's not just about risks. Climate-related risks also present opportunities for the business community in the actions they take today," Khan said.

He also mentioned that global investors are creating new opportunities and ways for businesses to stay competitive along with opening up new sources of international investment.

He urged businesses to take advantage of the alignment with the interim government's reform agenda. "Now is the time to lead by modernising, upgrading and making businesses more responsible and impactful."

Khan also highlighted Bangladesh's low penetration of renewable energy, which is just 2 percent.

"We aim to increase this and move towards larger and more sustainable systems," he said.

Lutfey Siddiqui, the chief adviser's special envoy for international affairs, said the modern journey towards sustainability began about 35 years ago.

"As entrepreneurs and businesses, it's important not just to focus on producing things cheaply, but on how we produce them," Siddiqui said.

"Climate transition is a real risk, and we need to treat it as a strategic business issue, not merely a compliance requirement."

Michael Miller, the ambassador and head of the delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh, pointed out the importance of action needed to be taken for countries like Bangladesh, which is among the most climate-vulnerable nations in the world.

Every fraction of a rise in degree of global temperature matters, he said.

Miller also mentioned that the global gateway aims to mobilise up to 300 billion euros in public and private investments by 2027 through a combination of grants, concessional loans, and guarantees to de-risk investments.

Achim Tröster, the German ambassador to Bangladesh, mentioned energy security as a critical concern for both Bangladesh and Germany.

As Bangladesh emerges as a major regional economic power, it is essential to meet its energy needs in a sustainable, secure, and climate-resilient manner, he said.

Thijs Woudstra, chargé d'affaires of the Netherlands embassy, said Bangladesh's garment industry is moving towards decarbonisation and it is time to take positive climate action in response to the national and global energy crisis.

"I look forward to continued collaboration with the Bangladeshi garment sector and the broader private sector to advance sustainable and circular textiles," he said.

Mostafiz Uddin, founder and CEO of BAE, encouraged entrepreneurs to prioritise the planet and the country.

"Climate action is no longer a burden for businesses—it's an opportunity," he said.

More than 300 engineers from apparel manufacturing units participated in the event, gaining practical strategies to drive progress towards sustainability and decarbonisation within their organisations.​

 

[Saif]

Overshooting 1.5C risks ‘irreversible’ climate impact

Any breach of what climate scientists agree is the safer limit on global warming would result in “irreversible consequences” for the planet, said a major academic study published on Wednesday.

www.thedailystar.net

Overshooting 1.5C risks ‘irreversible’ climate impact

Any breach of what climate scientists agree is the safer limit on global warming would result in "irreversible consequences" for the planet, said a major academic study published on Wednesday.

Even temporarily exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius before bringing temperatures back down -- a scenario known as an "overshoot" -- could cause sea level rises and other disastrous repercussions that might last millenia.

This "does away with the notion that overshoot delivers a similar climate outcome" to a future where more was done earlier to curb global warming, said Carl-Friedrich Schleussner, who led the study co-authored by 30 scientists.

The findings, three years in the making, are urgent, as the goal of capping global temperature rises at 1.5C above pre-industrial levels is slipping out of reach.

Emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases must nearly halve by 2030 if the world is to reach 1.5C -- the more ambitious target enshrined in the 2015 Paris climate accord. Currently however, they are still rising.

Some kind of overshoot of 1.5C is increasingly being seen as inevitable by scientists and policymakers.

This new study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature, cautions against "overconfidence" in such a scenario when the dangers are not fully appreciated.​

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Great thread. Keep it up.

 

[Saif]

Initiative taken to free ‘Patuakhali river’ from encroachment, pollution

The 12-kilometre-long Patuakhali River, with an average width of 250 metres and a spiral flow, has faced significant degradation due to encroachment and pollution over the years

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Initiative taken to free ‘Patuakhali river’ from encroachment, pollution

Photo: Sohrab Hossain/Star

The 12-kilometre-long Patuakhali River, with an average width of 250 metres and a spiral flow, has faced significant degradation due to encroachment and pollution over the years. Flowing east and north of Patuakhali town, this river has lost much of its existence as various structures have been built along its banks, and its waters have been contaminated by waste disposal.

It connects with the Lohalia river to the east and the Payra river to the west.

Encroachment is evident in several sections of the river, where structures have been erected.

Additionally, Patuakhali town's sewage system relies heavily on this river, with all the municipal drains flowing directly into it, resulting in the discharge of garbage at multiple points. The pollution is further compounded at the confluence with the Lohalia, where sand from annual dredging of the river port is dumped, causing a sand buildup at the river mouth.

This change in the river's course has led to erosion in the Lohalia area, destroying hundreds of homes and agricultural land.

In response to this situation, the District River Conservation Committee has initiated steps to free the Patuakhali river from encroachment and pollution.

On Tuesday afternoon, a meeting was held at the Patuakhali District Commissioner's office, chaired by Additional District Commissioner (Revenue), Md. Obaidur Rahman.

He said following the government's directive from the Ministry of Climate Change, Forests, and Environment, one river in each district will be restored by removing encroachments and pollution within the next two months.

The Patuakhali River has been selected as the priority for this district out of its 42 rivers. A detailed work plan, estimated budget, and list of necessary equipment will be finalised by October 20.

During the meeting, Patuakhali Municipality Administrator and Deputy Director of Local Government, Jewel Rana, expressed the municipality's commitment to preventing further pollution.

He said the narrow canals, drains, sluice gates, and culverts connected to the river, and assured that the local authorities would take positive steps to protect it.

The meeting was attended by district administration officials, journalists, and members of the River Protection Committee.​

 

[Saif]

Can seagrass safeguard coastlines?

IN THE age of escalating global warming, our coastal communities and ecosystems are becoming increasingly vulnerable. Located along the fastest rising sea in the world, the Bay of Bengal, our coastlines are facing unprecedented challenges. Each year, we witness more frequent and intense tropical...

www.newagebd.net

Can seagrass safeguard coastlines?
Parvez Uddin Chowdhury 13 October, 2024, 00:00

Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha

IN THE age of escalating global warming, our coastal communities and ecosystems are becoming increasingly vulnerable. Located along the fastest rising sea in the world, the Bay of Bengal, our coastlines are facing unprecedented challenges. Each year, we witness more frequent and intense tropical cyclones, accompanied by strong storm surges causing land degradation and high salinity and devastating millions of people in the low-lying coastal belt.

Ours is often listed among the most disaster-prone countries in the world. Each year, flood, cyclones and heatwaves break previous records. This year has been one of the hardest. Climate change-induced disasters are severely affecting our economy, agriculture and infrastructure. The soaring climate toll gets too heavy on us, pushing our resilience to its limits.

After every cyclone and flood, despite our continued efforts to upgrade shorelines and embankments, we are often starkly reminded of how fragile our defences are in protecting coastal communities. The call for reducing disaster risks and building more resilient coastal communities is growing louder each year.

The cyclone Remal, which occurred in May, struck the southern coastal districts and also neighbouring India, leaving a trail of death and destruction. Reports indicate that it destroyed about 232.01 kilometers of coastal embankments and more than 413 kilometers were damaged.

With the sea level rising, the need for protecting our coastal communities and ecosystems from erosion and pollution has become increasingly urgent. Amidst these challenges, we have got a remarkable ally in our fight to reduce climate impact on our coastlines — seagrass, or saltmarsh, to be specific. This silent but powerful grass is a vibrant shield against encroaching sea and the hurtling tides.

What is seagrass or saltmarsh?

SEAGRASS is a kind of grass that grow in shallow coastal waters and in intertidal zone along the coast. To be specific, the ones that grow in the intertidal zone is called saltmarsh, a variety of seagrass. Unlike other grasses, this can survive in high saline marine environment. There are more than 60 species of seagrasses in the world. Some species grow in the intertidal zone and others grow submerged in shallow and sheltered coastal waters.

They form dense meadows in coastal waters and make the area compact. The sensitive grassland also plays strong roles in coastal environment by protecting shores and providing habitat for many marine lives.

Seagrass on Banskhali coast

AT THE Ratnapur point of the Banskhali coastal belt, vast expanses of grassland, spanning more than a few kilometers are teeming with the beach. This grass, locally known as ‘uri’, thrives and paints the landscape by reclaiming areas from sea. They become submerged at high tide. In each season, these meadows transform and widen, becoming more vibrant and greener.

Only five years ago, the area was barren, devastated by tidal surges that uprooted many trees. The rising sea claimed all the sandy hammocks along the shore where people used to cultivate watermelons, tomatoes and vegetables. Much of coastal fisheries were affected. But now this grass is gradually building up the area and reclaiming lost areas.

The difference between embankments with the grass beds and without grass beds is obvious along the Banskhali shore. Still, the parts with no such grass are severely affected. During high tide, seawater often hits embankments and get into locality.

Banskhali, an outlying coastal sub-district of Chittagong, has a 40-kilometre coastlines with the Bay of Bengal. Unlike other coastlines, Banskhali has a vast coastal area that goes under water at high tide and at low tide, water recedes far from the shore to a few kilometers down making a 3-4-kilometre intertidal zone along the beach. Other coastal areas in the country such as Cox’s Bazar, Chakaria, Maheskhali and Kutubdia, Anowara, Barishal, Patuakhali, Chandpur, etc have a comparatively smaller intertidal zone.

Although there are efforts from the forest department and local communities, the grass beds at Banskhali coast are growing unnoticed. There has been no report ever on it by any national newspaper. The reason it remains out of attention is, perhaps, the poor communication to the remote area.

At these times of unpredictable global warming and sea level rise, the way the meadows act as coastal protection is remarkable. The immense potential of this grass in safeguarding our coast and also providing a crucial habitat for local wildlife should be fully understood. The way it has been phenomenal, it deserves recognition and should be studied and applied to other places as a nature-based solution to our coastal erosion.

Climate change and biodiversity

According to a scientific report, seagrass meadows are among the earth’s most efficient and long-term carbon sinks. They absorb carbon from the atmosphere much faster than others. In our global race towards net zero, seagrasses and mangroves are the urgent new areas of conservation.

A study by Port of San Diego found in 2023 that they absorb up to 10 times more carbon than forests on land. They have an incredibly huge carbon absorption ability from the environment and, hence, considered a powerhouse in the climate change fight.

A few months ago, the Reuters news agency made a headline on a group of volunteers planting eelgrass seedlings, a variety of seagrass, on a popular beach in Yokohama, Japan. Japan has taken up this action in a bid to combat the climate change and to achieve Japan’s environmental goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.

Visit to Banskhali would show that the seagrass medowes are full of life, providing shelter and food for a diverse aquatic species on the shore including crabs, seahorses turtles and many other tiny invertebrates. The grasslands are ideal place for mangroves to grow up and that is also evident there. Mangroves are gradually growing up. With this grassland and mangroves, the area around it has been so rich in biodiversity that, if more efforts are put, it could be made into a special zone for marine and coastal biodiversity. It should be saved from tourism and increased human movement.

Nature-positive solutions

ACCORDING to ARUP, a global consultancy for sustainable development, nature-based solutions is an umbrella term for interventions that are designed with nature to restore ecosystems, reverse biodiversity loss, manage water and tackle the negative effects of climate change on infrastructure and society.

Nature-based solutions focus on harnessing the power of the natural world to provide sustainable protection, to restore ecosystems and to enhance biodiversity and human well-being. As we confront the multifaceted challenges by climate change, the need for sustainable, zero-carbon solutions is growing and is increasingly seen as the only future. Globally, these solutions are prioritised. We have to look ahead and embrace nature-based strategies to combat climate impacts on our coastal belt. We have many times been headlined before and hailed as a global champion in climate change adaptation. Maybe this seagrass could be our next initiative.

While the grass and mangroves may not immediately replace traditional hard solutions such as concrete walls, embankments fortified with concrete blocks or geo bags, they certainly serve as excellent complements. These natural defences can help embankments withstand the growing threats of hydrometeorological hazards. Over time, they create such a robust natural protection that embankments may become unnecessary. Moreover, their remarkable ability to restore ecosystems and reverse biodiversity loss is unparalleled. Not to mention the incredible capacity, it has to absorb carbon from the environment.

We have a 654-kilometre vulnerable coastline, going around all islands and up the estuaries, it is estimated to be nearly 1,320 kilometres. Every year, we spend millions on coastal embankment upgrade in the view of rising sea level and increasingly intense tropical cyclones. Nevertheless, we see every year thousands are displaced from coastal areas due to various climate related hazards including sea level rise, erosion, breaking embankments, high salinity, etc. Many reports indicate by 2050, around a million people will be displaced from coastal districts.

We need innovative nature-friendly measures for resilient and healthier coastal environments accompanied by strong community engagements. Nature-based initiatives by the government for building coastal resilience will never succeed without strong community involvement.

People also take away concrete blocks from coastal dykes, clear mangroves from coastal areas and cut seagrass for cattle. But there are active efforts from educated community representatives behind this seagrass thriving along the Banskhali coast. So, it is clear that we need meaningful community participation to bring about changes through nature-based initiatives. And for that, we need an organised network of community-based volunteers to be engaged and campaign on such initiatives so that communities understand and come forward to be a part of it.

On this International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, let us commit ourselves to working together to mitigate the risk of disasters in our communities so that we can ensure a safe and sustainable future for our children.

Parvez Uddin Chowdhury is a development worker, climate enthusiast and writer.​

 

[Saif]

Save Hatirjheel from overdevelopment

Why continue an initiative that will worsen waterlogging?

www.thedailystar.net

Save Hatirjheel from overdevelopment
Why continue an initiative that will worsen waterlogging?

VISUAL: STAR

Waterlogging has been a perennial problem for Dhaka city, and we all know the reason behind it. Rampant encroachment of water bodies has resulted in water remaining stagnant in many areas as there is nowhere for it to go. Canals, ponds, and parts of rivers have been filled up to satisfy the greed of encroachers who often enjoyed political patronage. Hatirjheel is one of the latest casualties of this unplanned development that threatens to further worsen Dhaka's waterlogging problem.

According to a report, over the past 17 months, more than 10 acres of Hatirjheel Lake have been filled with sand as part of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway project. Authorities claim that the move was necessary to build 41 pillars for the project, despite warnings that it would severely disrupt the lake's natural water flow and reduce its capacity to retain excess rainwater. As a result, there would be increased waterlogging particularly in Dilu Road, Karwan Bazar, Banglamotor, Moghbazar and Tejgaon areas. Hatirjheel's biodiversity would also be affected, damaging habitats of aquatic life and destroying bird nesting areas.

This year's floods in various parts of the country proved to be more severe precisely because floodwaters stagnated for days on end as most water bodies have been filled up or blocked by unplanned infrastructure development.

It is unthinkable that despite such dire risks, the authorities would allow this move to continue. Reportedly, the approval for the filling initiative came directly from the former Prime Minister's Office. And despite this violating Dhaka's Detailed Area Plan (2022) as well as the Environment Conservation (Amendment) Act 2010, both Rajuk and the Department of Environment remained silent. Now that the former regime has been ousted, we expect things to be different. Given the current environment adviser's track record for fighting against encroachment of rivers and waterbodies, we hope this dangerous initiative would be scrapped soon.

While the elevated expressway has made life easier for many city dwellers in terms of mobility, it cannot be at the expense of the integrity of Hatirjheel or citizens' safety from environmental impacts. The government must stop the expansion immediately and develop a plan to undo the damage already caused and protect the lake in the future. This year's floods in various parts of the country proved to be more severe precisely because floodwaters stagnated for days on end as most water bodies have been filled up or blocked by unplanned infrastructure development. The interim government should identify all at-risk water bodies in Dhaka and other cities that have been filled up or encroached upon, and take urgent steps to free them.​

 

[Saif]

2024 Bangladesh Climate Action Forum: Building a climate-resilient future

The Bangladesh Climate Action Forum 2024 which recently concluded in Dhaka was a huge success and surpassed all expectations.

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2024 Bangladesh Climate Action Forum: Building a climate-resilient future

Photo: Reuters

The Bangladesh Climate Action Forum 2024 which recently concluded in Dhaka was a huge success and surpassed all expectations. Key to the event was the scale in terms of the number of delegates and the quality of the speakers; and the international element, with the event shining a light on Bangladesh and its efforts to take a leadership role on climate issues.

The event exemplifies the power of global collaboration in addressing pressing climate issues. Bringing together over 450 delegates from various sectors—government, industry, academia, and NGOs—this event fostered a platform for cross-sector dialogue. International stakeholders' participation highlighted the climate crisis's global nature, where local actions must align with global goals.

The forum enabled Bangladesh, one of the most climate-vulnerable countries, to build relationships with global leaders and access international expertise, technologies, and resources. The event showed that climate action cannot be siloed, rather partnerships across national and sectoral boundaries are required to develop sustainable strategies tailored to Bangladesh's unique challenges.

At the forum, significant emphasis was placed on decarbonisation, particularly in renewable energy and industrial processes. The launch of the "Better Mills Initiative" and the OnetrueSOLar Fund reflects Bangladesh's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, especially in garment production, which is a major contributor to global emissions.

Presentations on solar rooftop system optimisation and thermal energy system optimisation showcased the potential of these technologies to revolutionise energy consumption in industrial settings. The push for energy usage reduction in manufacturing is vital not only for reducing emissions but also for positioning Bangladesh as a leader in sustainable production. By embracing these technologies, the country could attract more green investments and strengthen its global competitiveness in garment production since global fashion brands seek to green their supply chains.

Bangladesh also faces the dual challenge of increasing its energy supply while transitioning to renewable sources. With only two percent of its energy coming from renewables, the country is far behind global sustainability targets. Speakers at the forum, including government representatives and European Union delegates, stressed the critical need for Bangladesh to enhance its energy security in a way that is both sustainable and resilient to the effects of climate change.

The European Union's pledge to mobilise up to 300 billion euros in investments by 2027 offers a lifeline for countries like Bangladesh to access much-needed resources for green energy projects. As Bangladesh continues to develop as a regional economic power, its ability to meet energy demands through renewable sources will not only mitigate environmental risks but also secure long-term economic growth.

One of the forum's central themes was rethinking climate action as a business strategy, rather than a regulatory obligation. Delegates were encouraged to see sustainability as an opportunity for growth. A key point made at the event was that "cheap labour is no longer a competitive advantage." Instead, meeting the sustainability targets set by international clients can differentiate Bangladeshi businesses in global markets. The apparel sector, a central plank of the nation's economy, is particularly poised to benefit from sustainable production practices.

As global brands increasingly demand eco-friendly products, businesses that invest in sustainability will likely gain a competitive edge. This shift in perspective is crucial for Bangladesh's long-term economic success, especially as the country strives to transition from being a low-cost manufacturing hub to a leader in sustainable innovation.

Sure, investing in climate action comes at a cost. There is no sugar-coating that, and how this cost is met is a question we should not shy away from. Regardless, there is a return on this cost—this investment—in the form of access to international markets. It's no different from the many other compliance costs supply chains need to cover such as social auditing, factory safety, and so on.

The forum's workshops, attended by over 300 engineers from the apparel manufacturing sector, played a pivotal role in empowering technical professionals to lead sustainability efforts within their organisations. Companies like Forbes Marshall and Jinko Solar provided hands-on insights into practical decarbonisation strategies.

Empowering engineers is vital because they are the ones who will implement the technologies and systems necessary to achieve sustainability goals. By focusing on skills development, Bangladesh is building a workforce capable of driving the transition to greener practices. This is particularly important for sectors like clothing, which is under increasing scrutiny for its environmental impact.

The broader significance of these workshops lies in their ability to equip engineers with the tools and knowledge to make immediate changes, ultimately contributing to the nation's long-term climate resilience and industrial sustainability.

In summary, Bangladesh Climate Action Forum 2024 showed that the Bangladeshi business community and our friends and partners in the international business community are now leading the way when it comes to climate planning. There is still much work to be done but the signs are evident: we are taking practical, thoughtful steps to plan for a climate-resilient future.

Mostafiz Uddin is the managing director of Denim Expert Limited. He is also the founder and CEO of Bangladesh Denim Expo and Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE).​

 

[Saif]

An environmentalist’s quest to grow a mini cloud forest

In Dhaka, it is rare to find a green escape that makes you forget the chaos of this bustling metropolitan city. Yet, thanks to the relentless dedication of MK Alam, a serene mini cloud forest thrives in the heart of Dhanmondi Lake -- offering a peaceful refuge for both residents, and numerous vi

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An environmentalist’s quest to grow a mini cloud forest

In Dhaka, it is rare to find a green escape that makes you forget the chaos of this bustling metropolitan city. Yet, thanks to the relentless dedication of MK Alam, a serene mini cloud forest thrives in the heart of Dhanmondi Lake -- offering a peaceful refuge for both residents, and numerous visiting birds.

For those unfamiliar with the concept of mini-cloud forests, it is a condensed version of the larger cloud forests, typically found in mountainous regions with consistent cloud cover. These ecosystems are known for their immense biodiversity and dense vegetation, which create a unique microclimate that is cooler and more humid than the surrounding areas.

A retired banker and philanthropist by nature, Alam took the initiative to establish this mini cloud forest many years ago.

Photo: Star

He explains, "Roughly in 1990, with my little knowledge and understanding, I dared to establish a mini cloud forest at Dhanmondi Lake. I started with planting trees here and there. But many people took this as a nuisance rather than supporting me. They said the trees would create a breeding ground for mosquitoes."

"However, I didn't pay heed and continued to do what I believed in — planting trees and caring for them."

In an urban setting like Dhaka, a mini cloud forest can serve as a vital ecological sanctuary that would support local wildlife, while also improving air quality and moderating city temperatures.

"Over the years, I've introduced a variety of plants, particularly medicinal ones like the Horitoki tree. The forest has also attracted rarely seen birds, such as the Indian Pond Heron, although their numbers have recently dwindled due to increased fishing activities in the lake," Alam notes.

Despite its beauty and ecological importance, the forest's journey is fraught with challenges. "Every year, especially in June, we plant numerous trees. Sadly, within a few months, they are often neglected," Alam shares, highlighting the dire need for continuous care and community engagement.

"It's overwhelming to face these challenges alone. I yearn for support, not necessarily from the government, but at least from local communities and organisations who share a similar vision," he urges.

We need to understand that urban green spaces like this forest are not just aesthetic enhancements, but functional necessities that contribute to the health and well-being of the population.

Drawing parallels with global standards, Alam points out, "Look at Singapore, a city-state that champions public health by integrating vast green spaces into its urban planning. They understand that investing in greenery is not just about beautification -- it's about the health of their people."

The path Alam has chosen is lonely and fraught with obstacles, but he is determined to take care of the trees for as long as he can. His environmental advocacy extends beyond the forest. In Satkhira, he established Fatic Khira S A Girls High School, providing free education and championing the inclusion of nature conservation in the curriculum.

"Our educational systems need to instil a sense of responsibility towards nature. We need to engage students and teachers alike in nurturing our environment as part of their learning," he insists.

As Alam contemplates his retirement, his commitment remains unwavering. "What is my retirement plan? To continue championing the environment. This work gives my life purpose and grounds my identity in the collective conscience of those around me, known and unknown," he said.

Ultimately, the mini cloud forest is not just Alam's legacy -- it is an invitation to every city dweller to reconsider their relationship with nature. It challenges Dhaka and cities worldwide to not only coexist with nature, but to embrace it as a fundamental aspect of urban life, ensuring that cities can breathe, flourish, and sustain themselves for generations to come.​