Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo on Wednesday expressed optimism that Bangladesh will see significant improvements in waste management within the next year, helping reduce pollution in rivers, canals and wetlands.
Speaking in Parliament, he said the government is prioritizing measures to curb environmental degradation, noting that pollution stems from multiple sources beyond industrial activities.
The minister said a proposal is under consideration to establish a waste recycling plant at Amin Bazar, alongside efforts to strengthen waste management systems in urban areas nationwide.
He added that industries are being required to install Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs), while the private sector is being encouraged to convert waste into energy and bio-fertilizer.
The minister said 877 industrial units have environmental clearance, with 129 discharging liquid waste. All such industries have ETPs, and most are under real-time monitoring through IP cameras by the Department of Environment.
He also noted that industries have been given a deadline until June 2027 to implement zero-discharge plans.
Lawmakers raised concerns that untreated industrial waste is contaminating water sources and posing serious health risks.
In response, the minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening enforcement and expanding waste management infrastructure across the country.
