Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo held a courtesy meeting with Max Tunon, Country Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO), at the ministry on Tuesday.
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in areas including plastic pollution management, environmental protection, sustainable development, pollution control, renewable energy expansion, carbon credits, climate finance, circular economy, and biodiversity conservation.
During the discussion, the environment Minister highlighted the government’s initiatives under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy to ensure sustainable waste management, particularly for improving plastic waste collection and recycling systems.
He also said the government has undertaken various measures to strengthen Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) operations for industrial waste management and environmental protection. In addition, Bangladesh is planning to introduce electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmentally friendly transportation.
The adviser further noted that the government is expanding solar power installations across the country to reduce pressure on the national grid and increase the use of renewable energy.
ILO Country Director Max Tunon emphasized the importance of maintaining international standards in plastic recycling, waste management, and environmental protection at the upcoming EPR workshop scheduled to be held in Gazipur next month. He also stressed the need for coordinated efforts involving government agencies, development partners, and private organizations.
The ILO delegation expressed interest in expanding ongoing cooperation with Bangladesh in the areas of environment, forestry, and climate change, with particular emphasis on ensuring a “just transition” in relevant sectors.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the ILO Bangladesh office were also present at the meeting.
