Dhaka, September 2, 2026: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo has stressed that actions taken today to address the climate crisis will determine the safety and security of future generations.
He made the remarks on Wednesday while addressing the closing and award-giving ceremony of World Environment Day and Environment Fair 2026 at the Department of Environment auditorium in Agargaon, Dhaka.
Mintoo said effective action must be taken immediately to address the growing risks posed by climate change. Sustainable development can be achieved by building an environmentally friendly economy that balances environmental protection, social development and economic growth.
He said a green economy based on low-carbon emissions, efficient use of resources, cleaner production and green employment would play a vital role in meeting the challenges of sustainable development in the 21st century.
The minister noted that global warming is increasing the frequency and intensity of sea-level rise, coastal salinity, cyclones, storm surges, flash floods, excessive rainfall, droughts, heatwaves and other climate-related disasters. Such risks are particularly concerning for low-lying and coastal countries like Bangladesh.
Government Steps on Climate Adaptation
Mintoo said the government has formulated the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023-2050 to address the long-term impacts of climate change. It has also prepared NDC 3.0, setting targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The government is working to develop a long-term low-emission development strategy and strengthen international climate finance and partnerships to tackle climate risks, he said.
The minister stressed that environmental protection, ecosystems, biodiversity and climate change are closely linked to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Environmental considerations must therefore be integrated into every aspect of development.
He called for greater public participation alongside government initiatives to build a greener, safer and more liveable Bangladesh.
Focus on Future Generations
Mintoo urged parents and educators to develop environmental awareness among children from an early age, including respect for nature, avoiding polythene, preventing noise pollution, conserving electricity and water, and protecting trees and biodiversity.
Speaking as a special guest, Acting Secretary of the ministry Dr Fahmida Khanam said climate change impacts have become a stark reality. Rising global temperatures are accelerating glacier melt and contributing to severe flooding, while flash floods are also increasing in Bangladesh, including in hilly areas.
She said early warning systems, as part of climate adaptation efforts, could help reduce agricultural losses and health risks caused by rising temperatures and extreme weather.
The ceremony featured a documentary on World Environment Day 2026 activities, followed by the distribution of prizes, crests, certificates and prize money among competition winners and the best stalls at the environment fair.
Director General of the Department of Environment Dr Md Lutfur Rahman chaired the event, which was attended by senior government officials, competition winners and their guardians, civil society representatives.
