Bangladesh among countries most vulnerable to climate change: Info minister
He said tackling the crisis would require global solutions alongside greater awareness over energy use.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan today (9 August) said Bangladesh is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, with coastal areas facing the greatest risks.
He said tackling the crisis would require global solutions alongside greater awareness over energy use.
"Climate change is taking place constantly. Bangladesh is among the countries at greatest risk, and coastal areas will be particularly vulnerable. A global solution is needed to address this problem," he said while inaugurating a 15-day divisional tree plantation campaign and tree fair at Bell's Park in Barishal city this morning.
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The minister said unchecked energy use could make rising temperatures increasingly difficult for human habitation.
"If we are not conscious about energy use, temperatures could reach levels that make our environment unfit for living. We have to keep this planet habitable for people," he said.
Swapan said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman was not focused on what he described as "cheap development," citing the government's initiative to plant 250 million trees over five years as an example.
Under the initiative, 50 million trees will be planted each year, he said, adding that tree fairs are being organised across the country as part of the programme.
Earlier in the morning, the information minister inaugurated the divisional tree plantation campaign and fair by releasing balloons and festoons. He later visited stalls set up by different nurseries participating in the event.
A total of 50 nurseries from different districts of Barishal division are taking part in the fair, where saplings of various species are being displayed and sold.
The fair will remain open from 9am to 10pm every day for the next 15 days.
