Bangladesh to showcase jute as plastic alternative at COP31
Foreign Affairs State Minister Shama Obaed Islam says Bangladesh will push for climate justice, adequate climate financing and a just transition at the November conference in Türkiye.
Bangladesh plans to showcase jute as a sustainable, biodegradable alternative to plastic products at the upcoming COP31 climate conference in Türkiye, while pushing for climate justice, adequate financing and a just transition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
The priorities were discussed at a meeting with climate experts and other stakeholders on Bangladesh's preparations for COP31, chaired by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam in Dhaka today (15 October), according to a ministry press release.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Environment, Forest and Climate Change Saimum Parvez, climate experts, research organisations, representatives of national and international organisations, and senior foreign ministry officials attended the meeting.
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Shama Obaed Islam said COP was a global platform for climate diplomacy, covering adaptation, mitigation and resilience. She highlighted the importance of climate justice and accountability, the loss and damage fund, just transition and green growth for Bangladesh.
She called for implementing the National Action Plan and ensuring predictable, adequate and transparent disbursement of international climate finance in line with national priorities. She also stressed the need to combine circular economy principles with green industry.
The state minister said Bangladesh's jute sector would be highlighted at COP31 through the display of products, technologies and commercial opportunities, presenting the natural fibre as an alternative to plastic.
Participants discussed Bangladesh's priorities and proposals for the conference, while young representatives who will attend COP31 for the first time shared their expectations and recommendations.
The discussants also called for comprehensive strategies and policies that could be implemented beyond the conference and stressed the importance of showcasing the government's flagship climate initiatives internationally.
COP31 is scheduled to take place in Antalya, Türkiye, from 9 to 20 November 2026. Bangladesh's delegation is expected to participate in high-level meetings, negotiations and discussions and present the country's climate priorities and achievements.
