Minister calls for stronger adaptation technologies, early warning systems and low-carbon development
Science and technology vital for climate security
- Bangladesh needs science and technology-driven climate adaptation
- Early warning technologies can reduce agricultural and health risks
- Low-carbon production and green employment should be prioritised
Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo, MP, has said that timely action and the effective use of science and technology to address the climate crisis are essential for ensuring future security.
He made the remarks as the chief guest at the closing and award distribution ceremony of World Environment Day and Environment Fair 2026, held at the auditorium of the Department of Environment in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Wednesday.
The minister said effective measures must be taken immediately to address the growing risks of climate change. A sustainable future can be ensured by building an environmentally friendly economy through the integration of environmental protection, social development and economic progress.
He said an environmentally friendly economy would play an important role in addressing the challenges of sustainable development in the 21st century. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals would require lower carbon emissions, efficient use of resources, pollution-free production systems and the creation of green jobs.
The minister noted that global warming is increasing the frequency and intensity of various climate-related hazards, including sea-level rise, salinity intrusion in coastal areas, cyclones, tidal surges, flash floods, excessive rainfall, drought, heatwaves and water scarcity. Such risks are particularly concerning for a low-lying and coastal country like Bangladesh.
He said the government has formulated the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023–2050 to address the long-term impacts of climate change. The government has also prepared Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0), setting targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Work is also underway to formulate a long-term low-emission development strategy and strengthen international climate finance and partnerships.
Highlighting the role of science and technology in climate adaptation, the minister said environmental protection, ecosystems, biodiversity and climate change are closely linked with sustainable development. Environmental considerations must therefore be integrated into every stage of development planning.
Speaking as a special guest, Acting Secretary of the ministry Dr Fahmida Khanam said the impacts of climate change have become an undeniable reality. Rising global temperatures are causing glaciers to melt and contributing to devastating floods. Bangladesh is also experiencing an increase in flash floods, with flooding now affecting not only haor and low-lying areas but also hilly regions.
She said early warning systems and data-driven forecasting technologies could play an important role in climate adaptation. Issuing warnings in advance can help reduce agricultural losses and public health risks.
The environment minister also stressed the importance of developing environmental awareness and values among future generations. He called for children and adolescents to be educated from an early age about protecting nature, avoiding polythene use, preventing noise pollution, conserving electricity and water, and protecting trees and biodiversity.
He said building a green, safe and liveable Bangladesh would require not only government initiatives but also technology-enabled awareness, public participation and responsible behaviour.
The minister congratulated the winners of various competitions organised on the occasion of World Environment Day 2026 and the award-winning participants of the environment fair.
A documentary highlighting various programmes undertaken for World Environment Day 2026 was screened at the event. Awards, crests, certificates and prize money were subsequently distributed among the winners of different competitions and the best stalls participating in the environment fair.
Director General of the Department of Environment Dr Md Lutfor Rahman chaired the programme. Senior officials from the ministry and the Department of Environment, competition winners and their guardians, civil society representatives, print and electronic media journalists and other distinguished guests attended the event.
//DBTech/ THPR/SME//
