[🇧🇩] Save the Rivers/Forests/Hills-----Save the Environment

[Saif]

ICJ advisory opinion on climate change: Bangladesh’s participation

THE projected devastating effects of climate change in the coming years have sparked mixed reactions in the international legal arena. While states that are highly vulnerable to climate impacts...

www.newagebd.net

ICJ advisory opinion on climate change: Bangladesh’s participation
by Quazi Omar Foysal 24 December, 2024, 00:00

United States Institute of Peace

THE projected devastating effects of climate change in the coming years have sparked mixed reactions in the international legal arena. While states that are highly vulnerable to climate impacts have been proactive in advocating for universal obligations to combat climate change through multilateral frameworks, many industrialised polluter states remain reluctant to engage in such processes. As a result, these affected nations have pursued initiatives to seek advisory opinions from various international courts and tribunals (ICTs) in order to clarify and solidify the climate-related obligations of states.

ICTs typically exercise two types of jurisdiction: (i) contentious jurisdiction and (ii) advisory jurisdiction. In contentious jurisdictions, ICTs resolve disputes between states that have been brought before them. In contrast, the advisory jurisdiction involves the deliberation of legal opinions on questions presented by competent entities. For instance, under the UN Charter, the General Assembly, the Security Council, and other authorised UN organs or specialised agencies can request advisory opinions from the International Court of Justice on legal matters within their competence. While these opinions are generally non-binding on states and international organisations, they hold significant persuasive legal weight.

Within the context of climate change, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, ITLOS, has already issued an advisory opinion addressing states’ obligations to combat climate change in relation to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, UNCLOS. In the inter-American context, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights has concluded oral hearings for an advisory opinion concerning the Inter-American Convention on Human Rights, with the matter currently pending deliberation. However, the request for an advisory opinion on states’ climate change obligations in international law before the ICJ appears to be the cherry on top of the cake.

Bangladesh, ranked as the seventh most climate-affected country globally (Germanwatch, Global Climate Risk Index 2021), has been vocal about climate change in international political and judicial forums. It previously participated actively in both the written and oral proceedings of the ITLOS Advisory Opinion on Climate Change, held in Hamburg, Germany.

It is worth mentioning that ITLOS ruled that greenhouse gas emissions absorbed by oceans constitute marine pollution, affirming that states must take all necessary actions, based on the best available science, to minimise emissions in compliance with UNCLOS and other relevant international legal frameworks. As a coastal state, this advisory opinion holds particular significance for Bangladesh in reinforcing its climate-related obligations.

Bangladesh’s role in the ICJ Advisory Opinion on Climate Change extends beyond its mere participation in the proceedings. It was part of the Vanuatu-led core group of 18 states that spearheaded the unanimous adoption of UNGA Resolution 77/276 on March 29, 2023. Bangladesh has also submitted its written statement and written comments and participated in the oral proceedings.

It is to be noted that the ICJ Advisory Opinion on Climate Change has attracted unprecedented participation from states and international organisations. A total of 96 states and 11 international organisations participated in the oral proceedings held from December 2–13, 2024. This Advisory Opinion request centres on two key legal questions: (1) the obligations of states under international law to protect the climate system and environment from greenhouse gas emissions for both current and future generations and (2) the legal consequences for states that cause significant harm to the climate system, especially regarding vulnerable nations and affected peoples and individuals.

In its written submission of March 25, 2024, Bangladesh emphasised states’ obligations under international law in the context of climate change, drawing on various branches of international law and scientific evidence. It further outlined the legal consequences of the states violating climate-related international obligations. In its written comments of August 15, 2024, Bangladesh underscored states’ climate change-related obligations under customary international law, UNCLOS, the UN climate treaty regime, and human rights law. It further explained the general principles of state responsibility applicable in the context of climate change.

Bangladesh presented its oral submission on the first day (December 2, 2024) of the ten-day-long oral proceedings. The Bangladesh delegation was led by ambassador Tareque Muhammad (Bangladesh’s ambassador to the Netherlands) and comprised of Professor Payam Akhavan (University of Toronto) and Catherine Amirfar (Debevoise & Plimpton LLP) among others. Notably, both Professor Akhavan and Amirfar also represented Bangladesh before the ITLOS.

Bangladesh’s oral submission consisted of three key parts. First, ambassador Muhammad highlighted the country’s vulnerability to climate change and its urgent need to combat its effects. Professor Akhavan then emphasised Bangladesh’s position that ‘all states must take necessary measures to rapidly and deeply mitigate anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions to avoid breaching the 1.5°C threshold, with the greatest responsibility resting on developed and high-emitting states.’ He relied on customary international law, the UN climate treaty regime, human rights law, and the principle of common, but differentiated, responsibilities to substantiate this argument. Finally, Catherine Amirfar addressed Bangladesh’s stance on international obligations concerning climate adaptation, drawing upon the aforementioned sources of international law.

Bangladesh has particularly emphasised that, despite contributing only 0.52 per cent of global GHG emissions, it is disproportionately affected by climate change. It has strongly advocated for the application of the principle of common, but differentiated, responsibilities, highlighting the contributions of industrialised states to the worsening climate crisis and the impacts on small islands and low-lying nations. Given the heavy financial burden on climate-vulnerable countries to mitigate and adapt to climate change, Bangladesh has called for financial and technical support from high-emitting states, in accordance with their international obligations.

The ICJ’s forthcoming advisory opinion is widely anticipated to play a pivotal role in addressing climate change through international law. In light of the unanimous opinion recently delivered by ITLOS, the international community remains hopeful that the ICJ will adopt a similar stance.

Pending the ICJ’s deliberation, Bangladesh must continue to align its domestic laws with its international legal positions to effectively address climate change challenges. Its active participation in the ICJ and ITLOS proceedings underscores the importance of this alignment, serving as a reminder of the country’s domestic obligations to combat climate change. As one of the top 40 GHG emitters globally, Bangladesh faces the pressing need to harmonise its domestic laws and policies with its legal stance at the ICJ. This alignment is essential not only to mitigate the impacts of climate change but also to implement measures that enhance climate resilience, ensuring the nation’s preparedness for the challenges it will face in the future.

Quazi Omar Foysal is an international law expert, currently serving as a lecturer at American International University-Bangladesh and practising as an advocate at the Supreme Court of Bangladesh.​

 

[Saif]

Debunking myths about air pollution in Bangladesh

Discover the myths surrounding air pollution in Bangladesh and its real health impacts.

www.thedailystar.net

Debunking myths about air pollution in Bangladesh

Overwhelming evidence shows that air pollution has far-reaching consequences, impacting nearly every aspect of our lives. FILE/PHOTO:STAR

As researchers studying air pollution, we've encountered fascinating yet troubling observations about people's perceptions regarding environmental crises. Despite growing evidence and alarming statistics, many Bangladeshis continue to hold onto misconceptions about air pollution, what causes it, who it affects, and how it impacts health.

Air pollution in Bangladesh has reached critical levels, posing serious health risks, particularly to children and senior citizens. Yet, public awareness remains frustratingly low, and many dismiss the issue altogether. This is not simply a lack of information; it's a problem rooted in myths and outdated beliefs that prevent meaningful action.

Today, many still view air pollution as an urban problem, confined to bustling cities like Dhaka, while rural areas are perceived as untouched havens of clean air. Others blame seasonal illnesses or external factors, such as vaccines, for respiratory problems, completely overlooking the role of chronic exposure to harmful pollutants like PM 2.5, sulphur, and lead. And perhaps most concerning of all is the widespread dismissal of indoor air pollution, despite its growing threat in poorly ventilated homes and workplaces. It's time to replace myths with facts, challenge outdated beliefs, and confront the invisible threat that's already affecting our health and future.

One of the most widespread myths in Bangladesh is that air pollution is only an urban problem. Many people assume that the countryside, with its lush green fields and open spaces, is free from the toxic haze that hangs over cities like Dhaka. This misconception is deeply rooted in the visible sources of pollution like factories and construction dust which are concentrated in urban areas.

However, this myth could not be further from the truth. Rural areas are equally affected by air pollution, albeit in ways that are less visible but just as harmful. From the smoke of brick kilns to the burning of crop residues, rural pollution contributes to the same deadly air quality. And let's not forget that pollution doesn't care about borders; it travels across countries and vast distances. No area is immune from the harmful effects of pollution, whether it's the smog-filled streets of Dhaka or the quiet, dusty lanes of the countryside.

As the season changes many of us start experiencing shortness of breath and the "seasonal flu" or a harmless "winter cough." While the weather does play a role, the underlying cause of these respiratory issues is not simply the change in seasons, but the constant exposure to harmful air pollutants.

Tiny particles known as PM 2.5 and PM 10, along with gases like sulphur and lead, linger in the air, causing long-term damage to the lungs and respiratory system. These particles are small enough to be inhaled deeply into the lungs, where they can cause everything from chronic coughs to more severe conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and even heart disease. This is common science. So, while a little cough during the change of seasons might seem normal, persistent respiratory problems are more likely the result of chronic exposure to poor air quality, not just a passing flu.

Since the pandemic, another myth has taken hold: that the COVID vaccine is responsible for the rise in respiratory problems. Many people believe that the vaccine has damaged the lung functions and is causing persistent coughs, fatigue, and breathing difficulties. While the vaccine may have had some side effects for a very small group of people, the widespread rise in respiratory problems cannot be attributed to it, especially not without evidence.

Bangladesh has been grappling with poor air quality for years, and respiratory issues like coughing and shortness of breath have been on the rise long before the pandemic began. So, blaming the vaccine for health issues that have been building up over time misses the larger point: air pollution is the true threat to our lungs.

One of the most dangerous myths about air pollution is the idea that it only matters if you can see it. If the air looks clear, then it must be safe, right? This belief is especially common in areas where smog or heavy pollution is not immediately visible. Pollution doesn't always present itself in visible form. Fine particulate matter (PM 2.5), which is among the most harmful pollutants, is so small that it's invisible to the naked eye. These tiny particles can easily enter your lungs and bloodstream, causing significant health issues. So, just because you can't see pollution doesn't mean it isn't there. On the contrary, it's likely lurking in the air you're breathing.

Indoor air quality can often be far worse than outdoor air, especially in homes where cooking, smoking, or the use of certain household products is common. In many Bangladeshi households, traditional cooking methods such as burning wood, cow dung, or coal release harmful pollutants like particulate matter and carbon monoxide. Without proper ventilation, these pollutants accumulate indoors, creating a toxic environment for those living there. In fact, indoor air pollution can sometimes be as bad as outdoor pollution levels, making it just as hazardous, if not more so. So, the idea that staying indoors protects you from pollution is not only false—it could be putting your health at greater risk.

Overwhelming evidence shows that air pollution has far-reaching consequences, impacting nearly every aspect of our lives. It leads to deaths from cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, harms children's health, reduces workplace productivity, and even affects cognitive ability. Emerging research also links air pollution to mental health issues, sleep disturbances, and so forth.

These misguided beliefs prevent meaningful action, keeping people unaware of the true risks and long-term health effects. It's time to confront the reality of air pollution head-on. By understanding that pollution affects everyone—indoors and out, urban and rural—we can make informed choices to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and future generations.

Let's challenge these myths, embrace the truth, and work together to breathe cleaner, healthier air.

AARM Mehrab Ali is the founder and executive director of ARCED Foundation.

Sadia Sumaia Chowdhury is the senior programme manager at ARCED Foundation.

Shirsha Songshoptak is a research assistant at ARCED Foundation.​

 

[Saif]

Focusing innovation of eco-friendly packaging materials

With growing governmental interest in replacing polythene with biodegradable alternatives, fostering innovations in eco-friendly packaging has become imperative. Reports suggest that private researchers, particularly students, are actively exploring alternatives to polythene. While jute sacks and b

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Focusing innovation of eco-friendly packaging materials
Wasi Ahmed
Published :
Dec 24, 2024 22:03
Updated :
Dec 24, 2024 22:03

With growing governmental interest in replacing polythene with biodegradable alternatives, fostering innovations in eco-friendly packaging has become imperative. Reports suggest that private researchers, particularly students, are actively exploring alternatives to polythene. While jute sacks and bags are often cited as viable substitutes, innovations targeting other materials could yield promising results. Despite the government's ban on polythene shopping bags, full compliance remains elusive. Superstores have largely adhered to the ban, but open markets and small shops across the country have yet to follow suit. This noncompliance is exacerbated by supply shortages in jute mills and limited availability of jute fibre. Additionally, jute packaging is not suitable for all products, and is costlier than plastic bags for carrying grains.

Efforts to discover alternative sources for packaging materials are gaining momentum. A recent Financial Express report highlighted a group of researchers who developed biodegradable plastic using water hyacinth. This innovation addresses not only the demand for eco-friendly packaging but also helps manage the invasive aquatic plant, which is widespread in the country.

The research team comprises students from Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University (BSMRSTU), supervised by Dr. Neaz Al Hasan, Assistant Professor of Fisheries and Marine Bioscience, and Md. Ushama Shafoyat, Lecturer of Biomedical Engineering at the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST). By extracting cellulose fibres from water hyacinth, the team has created a polymer-like material resembling polythene that decomposes within six months. Their research, conducted at the biomaterial lab of MIST and BSMRSTU, was recently showcased at the University Innovation Hub Program, supported by the ICT Division and the World Bank. The team's immediate goal is to secure funding of at least Tk 10 million for further research and development, aiming to produce 120 tonnes of the material in the first year, with plans for scaling up as demand grows.

Other initiatives for polythene alternatives have also emerged. For instance, biodegradable bags made from corn starch have been developed. Derived from the firm base of corn, this material is processed into resin and then shaped into polythene-like bags. Certified as 92-95 per cent environmentally disposable by the Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), these bags contain no plastic and offer a promising substitute.

The challenge of transitioning away from polythene is not new. A ban on polythene bags was first introduced in 2002. Initially, compliance was strong due to strict monitoring and enforcement. However, within a year, the effort lost momentum, and polythene use resurged. Worse, the number of informal factories producing polythene bags increased, with more than 300 such factories reportedly operating today. Dhaka alone uses an estimated 220 million polythene bags daily.

One of the primary reasons for the failure of the earlier ban was the inadequate supply of jute bags. The government lacked preparation to address production shortfalls in state-owned jute mills or ensure steady supply of raw materials. In 2010, the government introduced the Mandatory Jute Packaging Act, but the law proved ineffective due to insufficient availability of jute packaging materials. In 2013, a circular mandated the use of jute bags for commercial packaging of rice, but millers and traders largely ignored it, citing high costs and limited supply. Some rice mill owners even filed a writ petition with the High Court. In response, the High Court, in its ad-interim order, stayed the directive relating to the mandatory use of jute bags. That too did not work, simply because there was scarcity of packaging materials from jute and more importantly, millers considered the jute sacks way unaffordable, even if supply constrains were not there. So the scarcity of affordable jute alternatives allowed the continued proliferation of polythene and plastic packaging

Against this backdrop, the need to explore alternative materials has never been more urgent. Innovations like water hyacinth-based biodegradable plastic and corn starch-based bags offer hope. However, scaling up these solutions requires significant investment, infrastructure, and policy support. While official announcements have been made about jute poly bags, reportedly developed by the state-owned Bangladesh Jute Mills Corporation (BJMC), no tangible results have materialised, leading many to dismiss these claims as baseless.

To ensure the success of biodegradable alternatives, the government must take a multi-faceted approach. This includes providing financial incentives for research and development, ensuring access to raw materials, and promoting public awareness about the benefits of eco-friendly packaging. Additionally, strict enforcement of existing bans and penalties for noncompliance are crucial.

Innovation in eco-friendly packaging materials is the only sustainable solution to the growing environmental damage polythene is causing. The success of these initiatives hinges on collaboration between researchers, the government, and the private sector. By prioritising funding, streamlining regulations, and fostering a culture of innovation, Bangladesh can lead the way in developing and adopting biodegradable packaging solutions. Such efforts will not only protect the environment but also create new opportunities for economic growth and employment.​

 

[Saif]

Sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic a must

AN INCREASE in the use of plastic, especially single-use plastic, coupled with the chaotic dumping of plastic waste, is a cause for concern. An Environment and Social Development Organisation...

www.newagebd.net

Sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic a must
26 December, 2024, 00:00

AN INCREASE in the use of plastic, especially single-use plastic, coupled with the chaotic dumping of plastic waste, is a cause for concern. An Environment and Social Development Organisation study show that 83 per cent of the people use single-use plastic bottles daily while 3.15–3.84 billion single-use plastic bottles are consumed annually. Only 21.4 per cent of it goes to recycling and 78.6 per cent of the bottles end up in the river systems, sea and dumps. The impact of the haphazard dumping of plastic bottles, which persist for up to 450 years in the environment, on public health and the environment is huge. Health experts say that chemicals such as bisphenol A and microplastics enter the food chain from these single-use plastic bottles, threatening human health and biodiversity. Also alarming is the rising trend of single-use plastic bottles and bags. When many countries have either banned or reduced single-use plastic to arrest environmental pollution and health hazards, the use of single-use plastic has increased in Bangladesh. The annual per capita plastic consumption in urban areas has tripled, as a World Bank study says, over two decades and the annual per capita plastic consumption in Dhaka has reached 24 kilograms.

The World Bank study also found that about 70 per cent of plastic waste is mismanaged and dumped injudiciously. A UN Environment Programme study says that Bangladesh is among the top 10 plastic-polluting countries and the seventh among the world’s plastic-consuming nations. An earlier Environment and Social Development Organisation study shows that annually, 87,000 tonnes of single-use plastic containers are thrown away in Bangladesh. An estimated 23,000–36,000 tonnes of plastic waste is disposed of every year in 1,212 hotspots around canals and rivers in and around Dhaka and most of this chaotically dumped waste ends up in rivers and other water bodies. Studies and field surveys say that areas that attract a large number of tourists also find a high concentration of plastic waste and there is an absence of waste management and recycling in those areas. Despite the government’s professed commitment to reducing plastic use, it has not taken any effective action so far, which has resulted in the increase of single-use plastic containers in forms such as food packaging, straws for drinks, cotton buds, sachets, coffee stirrers, soda, water and soft drink bottles and plastic bags. Experts blame government indifference for the alarming crisis.

It is, therefore, imperative for the government to put an effective mechanism in place to prevent plastic pollution and encourage industries to divest from the production of single-use plastic bottles and bags and produce locally available biodegradable products. A widespread awareness campaign is also a must to combat the pervasive use of single-use plastics.​

 

[Bilal9]

Textile millers seek permission to import recyclable plastics​

Less than 10% of plastic is recycled globally, and nearly half of the 400 million tonnes of plastic waste annually end up in landfills.

File photo: Collected

Less than 10% of plastic is recycled globally, and nearly half of the 400 million tonnes of plastic waste annually end up in landfills. File photo: Collected

The country's textile millers have urged the government to permit the import of recyclable plastics and to provide adequate support for utilising plastic flakes and polyester staple fibre (PSF) products produced through proper procedures.

These products could serve as import substitutes and significantly contribute to the economy by generating foreign exchange through exports, said Showkat Aziz Russell, president of the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), in a recent letter to the chief adviser.

In the letter, Russell said allowing the import of recyclable plastics and textile waste with a 5% specific duty for use in the recycling textile industries could add an additional $40–$50 billion annually in export earnings.

Furthermore, the BTMA advocated for safeguarding the legitimate interests of the local industry by facilitating the import of all types of textile waste, including cotton waste, which serves as a key raw material for mills producing recycled fibre.

The letter also called for revising the notification issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change on 27 August 2024, and for a meeting with stakeholders to determine the appropriate policy.

Bangladesh's annual import of PSF from various countries is around 1,200 tonnes,said the letter. Based on current statistics, producing PSF domestically using reusable plastic bottles instead of importing PSF would save $150 million in foreign exchange.

The letter further said Bangladesh could earn $40–$50 billion from non-cotton textiles and apparel products by 2030 by effectively utilising and exporting reusable plastics.

Moreover, renowned multinational companies such as Reebok, Pepsi, Nestlé, and Coca-Cola have committed to using flakes and granules produced from plastics in soft drink bottles and other packaging.

As a result, the global plastics industry, which serves the ready-made garment and shipbreaking sectors, is expanding rapidly.

Bangladesh is home to 23 man-made fibre and synthetic yarn manufacturing plants, with an investment of Tk25,000 crore. These factories require 900 tonnes of PSF daily, but local sources can supply only 20% of the demand, according to BTMA.

 

[Saif]

A canal or trash bin?

A sea of non-biodegradable plastic waste has engulfed Jamal Khan canal in Chattogram, threatening the port city with severe waterlogging during monsoon.

www.thedailystar.net

A canal or trash bin?
Jamal Khan canal choking on plastic

A sea of non-biodegradable plastic waste has engulfed Jamal Khan canal in Chattogram, threatening the port city with severe waterlogging during monsoon.

Despite a government ban on polythene bags dating back to 2002, the canal serves as a grim reminder of lax enforcement and the pervasive use of single-use plastics.

During a recent visit, the canal appeared more like a landfill, clogged with plastic waste primarily discarded by nearby residents.

Locals alleged that tenants of buildings along the canal toss household waste, including polythene bags, directly out their windows.

Others reportedly choose the canal as their dumping ground to avoid going to dustbins.

Utpal Barua, a resident of Jamal Khan area, said, "The government banned polythene bags in kitchen markets from November 1, but where is the action? People still bring home vegetables and fish in these bags, then dump the waste into the canal."

According to a 2022 study by the Civil Engineering Department of Chattogram University of Engineering and Technology (Cuet) produces 3,000 tonnes of waste daily, of which 249 tonnes (8.3 percent) are plastic and polythene.

Alarmingly, 140 tonnes of this waste go uncollected, ending up in canals and drains, choking the city's drainage systems.

Prof Swapan Kumar Palit of CUET Civil Engineering Department highlighted the lack of adherence to the "Mandatory Jute Packaging Act, 2010" and "Mandatory Jute Packaging Rules-2013," which require jute-based packaging for a range of essential goods.

"Despite these regulations, we see no implementation in the market," he said.

"Around 90 percent of carry-bags used in grocery shops and kitchen markets are still plastic and polythene."

Pranab Kumar Sharma, deputy conservation officer of Chattogram City Corporation, said, "We're removing waste from the canal, but resource limitations prevent us from addressing all canals simultaneously."

Experts emphasise that banning polythene bags isn't enough without viable alternatives.

Prof Sekandar Khan of Bangladesh Paribesh Andolan said, "Polythene use will decline naturally when affordable alternatives become widely available. The government must provide incentives to support alternative packaging industries."

Meanwhile, kitchen markets near the canal continue to flout the ban.

Vendors, however, argue they have no choice.

"Customers demand polythene bags. If they don't bring their own, how can we pack their purchases?" asked Md Ismail, a vendor.​

 

[Saif]

Can we ever curb the menace of throwaway plastics?

Tackling widespread pollution needs stringent action

www.thedailystar.net

Can we ever curb the menace of throwaway plastics?
Tackling widespread pollution needs stringent action

VISUAL: STAR

It is deeply concerning that despite growing awareness of the dangers posed by single-use plastics, their use remains extremely high in Bangladesh. A recent study by the Environment and Social Development Organization (ESDO) has found that the country consumes between 3.15 and 3.84 billion single-use plastic bottles annually, with a mere 21.4 percent being recycled. Both urban and rural areas are heavily dependent on plastic bottles, though in different ways. While urban areas see high consumption of water bottles, rural areas are increasingly witnessing the menace of soft drink bottles.

When this plastic waste is dumped into rivers, the consequences are disastrous. Rivers such as the Buriganga, Karnaphuli, and Meghna are already choking on plastic, rendering their waters toxic for aquatic life. As another study earlier last year revealed, at least 17 fish species and three shellfish species in three key rivers flowing through the Sundarbans are contaminated with microplastics. The health risks of such pollution for humans and ecosystems are immense.

Over the decades, successive governments have made plans to curb the use of throwaway plastics but these efforts faltered due to poor implementation. For example, although polythene bags were officially banned in 2002, they remain widely used. In January 2020, the High Court ordered a ban on single-use plastic products in coastal districts, which was supposed to take effect in 2021. Sadly, about four years later, there is still no visible progress in its implementation.

After the interim government assumed office in August, the cabinet division, at the environment adviser's request, instructed government offices to replace single-use plastics with eco-friendly alternatives. The environment ministry also banned polythene bags, initially targeting superstores before expanding the ban nationwide. However, these measures have yielded little impact largely due to inadequate enforcement and the absence of viable alternatives. Moreover, after the recent order to stop using single-use plastics, domestic plastic manufacturers have reportedly lobbied for a delay in implementing the ban until 2030, citing potential disruptions to businesses and consumers.

Clearly, issuing directives without ensuring readiness among all stakeholders will not suffice. To effectively combat plastic pollution, the government must adopt a comprehensive, well-coordinated plan developed in consultation with key stakeholders including businesses and the general public. Solutions should focus on promoting eco-friendly alternatives, supporting waste management systems, and strictly enforcing anti-plastic policies. The urgency for robust action cannot be overstated considering the level that plastic pollution has reached across the country.​

 

[Saif]

Ignoring biodiversity conservation will cost us

Climate change is severely affecting natural resources, including forests, wetlands, floodplains, hill ecosystems, and biodiversity.

www.thedailystar.net

Ignoring biodiversity conservation will cost us

The evergreen hill forest in the Teknaf Peninsula, where the sea meets the land and people. SOURCE: BCAS

Climate change is severely affecting natural resources, including forests, wetlands, floodplains, hill ecosystems, and biodiversity. Concerns about the loss of biodiversity and the degradation of ecosystems have been expressed in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports and in the recent United Nations Conferences of the Parties (COPs). Uncontrolled human activities, trade and business, and climate change are affecting various ecosystems, their species composition, compactness, productivity, and ecosystem health, which in turn are undermining the livelihoods and well-being of millions of marginalised people and indigenous communities living in and around these ecosystems.

Climate change is causing sea-level rise, increased climate variability, temperature rise and heat stress, changes in seasons, and more frequent or intense droughts, wildfires, cyclones, heavy rain-induced floods, and landslides. These impacts are leading to increasingly severe social, economic, and ecological consequences. A recent report from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research on "10 Insights in Climate Science" has cautioned that climate change and extreme events are affecting all ecosystems, which is also happening in Bangladesh. The National Adaptation Plan, published in October 2022, has identified 12 climate hotspots in the country with several climate stresses affecting both people and ecosystems.

A 2022 UN report states that forests cover approximately 31 percent of the Earth's surface. They are home to 80 percent of the terrestrial species of plants, animals, and insects. However, many wildlife species are extinct, and 22 percent of animal species are at high risk of extinction. Around 12 million hectares of forest land are lost every year due to heat stress, drought, and deforestation. The current high rate of deforestation, caused by human activities and climate change, poses serious threats to forests, biodiversity, and ecosystem health, on which the livelihoods of millions depend directly and indirectly. Additionally, human dependency on forests and ecosystems means that forests, along with natural vegetation, are a major sink of carbon, absorbing over 30 percent of anthropogenic CO2. Forests and wetlands are also a major source of carbon emissions. Deforestation and the degradation of wetlands are causing rapid changes in both local and global climates.

Climate change is causing frequent and severe forest fires that further degrade forest resources and threaten wildlife and biodiversity. The key challenges are fighting deforestation and stopping the degradation of ecosystems through regeneration, conservation, and the protection of ecosystems, wildlife, and biodiversity. One of the approaches to ecosystem regeneration is Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) with socio-ecological responses, which essentially meets the twin goals of ecological regeneration and enhancing social resilience to climate change.

The EbA approach is nested within Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for climate risk reduction, social protection, and resilient livelihoods by harnessing and enhancing ecosystem services from healthy ecosystems through conservation, protection, and regeneration of natural resources and ecosystems. Healthy ecosystems provide important ecosystem services that contribute to climate change adaptation. EbA focuses on the benefits that humans derive from biodiversity and ecosystem services to manage the risks related to climate change impacts.

The early examples of EbA include integrated landscape-level forest and wetland management; restoration and conservation of forest, hill, and wetland ecosystems; better management of forest protected areas with communities (SUFAL in Bangladesh); agroforestry and conservation agriculture; climate-smart agriculture; and nature-positive, climate-resilient livelihoods. The EbA projects are generating significant social and ecological co-benefits, such as food and water security, resilient water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and health risk management, livelihood protection, disaster risk reduction (DRR), social protection, and gender equity. It is strongly felt that the planning and implementation of EbA and NbS through a locally-led approach may address many local and community needs, priorities, and sustainable development goals by reducing current and future risks of climate change, as well as enhancing resilience in both society and ecosystems.

The recent COPs under the UNFCCC have placed much importance on planning and implementing EbA with communities and actors, including ecosystem managers, local governments, and community organisations. EbA interventions should be planned and implemented with the active participation of vulnerable communities and actors, following the Locally Led Adaptation (LLA) principles. Thus, the implementation of EbA in the degraded ecosystems of Bangladesh will certainly contribute to achieving the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement, the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Dr Dwijen L Mallick is fellow at Bangladesh Centre for Advanced Studies (BCAS).​

 

[Sergiolar]

содержание территорий зеленых насаждений и объектов зеленых насаждений - комплекс профилактических работ по уходу за зелеными насаждениями, а также элементами благоустройства, расположенными в границах территорий зеленых насаждений, и объектов зеленых насаждений, в результате выполнения которых обеспечивается сохранность, долговечность и безопасность функционирования территорий зеленых насаждений и объектов зеленых насаждений, включающий в том числе обеспечение их чистоты (уборку) и нормативного состояния, защиту зеленых насаждений от вредителей и болезней, устранение незначительных деформаций и повреждений зеленых насаждений, элементов благоустройства, и осуществляемый в течение всего периода эксплуатации объектов зеленых насаждений и элементов благоустройства в соответствии с классификатором работ по содержанию территорий и объектов зеленых насаждений; (Абзац в редакции, введенной в действие с 15 июля 2016 года Законом Санкт-Петербурга от 30 июня 2016 года N 457-82 Главная
- См Фрезеровка пней
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How can Bangladesh improve its waste management?

Bangladesh has been facing severe problems in waste management for decades.

www.thedailystar.net

How can Bangladesh improve its waste management?

VISUAL : REHNUMA PROSHOON

Sufia is a middle-aged woman working for ZeroWaste Tech, a startup in Dhaka. Every morning, she wears her safety jacket, gloves, boots, and helmet with the powered air-purifying respirator. After checking her smartphone in her allocated region, where the garbage is full and needs to be managed, she goes out with her other mates, collects garbage, and puts it in their targeted dump site near the city. The dump site has also classified areas such as plastics, biowaste, glass, e-waste, etc. Her team then divides the waste accordingly and puts them in each place. Then, the waste is processed further to minimise carbon emissions and can be converted into renewable energy.

This scenario, with the character and the startup, is imaginary, but it can be a reality.

Bangladesh has been facing severe problems in waste management for decades. Several initiatives have been taken, but they have not been effective due to their irregular implementation. The above-mentioned scenario can be made real especially in Dhaka, the most overpopulated city in Bangladesh, where garbage and waste can be seen everywhere, from main roads to narrow alleyways. In the rainy season, the problem intensifies tremendously because of poor drainage systems.

According to projections, the country's daily waste generation rate is expected to reach 0.80 kg per capita per day by 2030 and 1.19 kg per capita by 2041. So effective measures should be taken right now.

Electronic gadget usage is rising around the world, and Bangladesh is no different. This rising usage leaves a vast amount of electronic waste, which should be appropriately discarded. At the same time, most of it should be recycled and used for new purposes. The challenges in recycling e-waste in Bangladesh include the lack of formal collection systems, insufficient recycling infrastructure, and limited public awareness about the environmental impact of improper e-waste disposal. Informal recycling practices often involve hazardous processes that frequently exacerbate the process and harm both the environment and workers.

Ideas from various countries can be adopted and implemented in Bangladesh to reduce as well as to manage waste in a better way. For example, any citizen can deposit waste into certain places proposed by government or private organisations and get cash or various credits. Those credits can be used for discounts on utility bills. Also, designated dustbins can be used for general and recyclable waste. This waste can be collected as soon as the bins are full, sending notifications to the waste management companies as the whole system will be based on IoT with the bins having sensors.

Japan, Canada, and the European Union have implemented Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), which holds producers (manufacturers, importers, sellers) accountable for making their products for the entire lifecycle, even after the consumer stops using them. This means that the producers are not only responsible for making the products but also must be a part of the waste management of their products. They have some policies, like the take-back policy, which provides facilities for the consumers to return used products. They also have recycling obligations. These schemes encourage them to reduce waste by contributing to the government or third-party waste management initiatives.

Food waste can be redirected to renewable energy sectors to produce biogas. For instance, South Korea has implemented a mandatory food waste recycling programme where food waste is collected separately and processed into biogas and animal feed. Such a system not only reduces landfill usage but also contributes to renewable energy production and agricultural sustainability. Bangladesh could adopt a similar model by establishing dedicated food waste collection and processing centres in urban areas.

Startups focusing on areas like waste-to-energy technologies, recycling infrastructure, and eco-friendly alternatives to plastics should be encouraged. For example, companies that focus on converting waste materials, such as plastic and organic waste, into valuable fuels and energy can make a huge impact and significantly reduce waste.

Public campaigns to educate citizens about waste segregation, recycling, and the environmental consequences of improper waste disposal are crucial. Effective methods could include integrating waste management topics into school curricula to instil habits from an early age and organising interactive workshops in communities. Social media campaigns using influencers and local celebrities can also raise awareness and encourage sustainable practices. These approaches can ensure that the message reaches a diverse audience and promotes active participation.

Indeed, the widespread use of plastic bags has largely been replaced with eco-friendly alternatives like jute and paper bags, but this practice should be implemented more strictly. Modern landfills equipped with gas recovery systems can also reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste and other non-recyclables. These systems capture methane, a potent greenhouse gas typically released from decomposing waste in landfills, which can be converted into renewable energy and reduce air pollution.

Additionally, setting up innovation hubs and providing access to research facilities could foster the growth of sustainable businesses and enrich the research sector for this cause. For instance, exploring methods like bioleaching, a process where bacteria safely extract valuable materials from electronic waste, can be a game-changer. This technique not only minimises environmental harm but also provides a sustainable approach to recycling and resource recovery. By encouraging such advancements, Bangladesh can pave the way for a more sustainable and efficient waste management system.

While many initiatives are being undertaken to reduce waste, a more cohesive and systematic effort is needed to overcome the flaws of the current waste management system. The government should establish clear and enforceable guidelines and strong legislation, and ensure practical policy implementation, which are essential to drive meaningful change in this respect. By learning from global best practices, fostering innovation, and raising public awareness, Bangladesh can transform its waste management system into one that is more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally responsible.

Shaikh Afnan Birahim is a postgraduate student of computing science at the University of Glasgow.​