Political Will and Partnership Pivotal for Protecting Ozone: Syeda Rizwana Hasan

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, has said that political will and international cooperation are essential to protecting the ozone layer. She noted that the depletion of the ozone layer poses risks to human health, agricultural production, and biodiversity. However, she emphasized that the adoption and enforcement of effective international laws, such as the Montreal Protocol, have enabled the world to successfully regulate harmful chemicals. “This is an example that when there is political will, international law can also be effectively implemented,” the Environment Adviser said.

She made these remarks while addressing as chief guest a discussion session organized at the Department of Environment in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Tuesday, September 16, marking World Ozone Day.

Syeda Rizwana Hasan further stated that global success in protecting the ozone layer was possible because developed countries extended financial and technological support to developing countries. She stressed that a similar level of commitment and cooperation from developed nations is indispensable in tackling climate change. “We want criticisms to be taken positively and translated into effective actions. Only by changing individual and institutional behavior can a sustainable future be ensured,” she added.

The discussion was presided over by Dr. Md. Kamruzzaman, Director General of the Department of Environment. Additional Secretary (Climate Change) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Mohammad Navid Shafiullah; Director of the Department of Environment, Md. Ziaul Haque; and representatives from UNDP also spoke at the event. The keynote paper was presented by Project Director Mohiuddin Manik.

On the occasion, prizes were distributed among the winners of the art competition held to mark World Ozone Day.