Students, civil society demand action for clean air in Dhaka

Under the slogan "Invest now for clean air", more than a hundred students and civil society representatives gathered at Manik Mia Avenue, Dhaka, on 7 September to mark the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies 2025.

The programme, organised by the Just Energy Transition Network Bangladesh (Jetnet-BD) with support from ActionAid Bangladesh, featured cultural protest with banners, songs, street theatre, and performances. Jetnet-BD members—including Surjodoy Youth Society, Youth Action for Development, Youth Action for Social Development, YouthNet Global, and the Centre for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS)—led the event.

The performances highlighted the daily hardships caused by polluted air, especially for rickshaw pullers, garment workers, street vendors, women, and children. The central message: immediate investment in clean air is vital, and a just energy transition cannot succeed without it.

"Clean air and a just energy transition are interconnected. We want to move away from fossil fuels, but our health, jobs and environment must be protected," said Raihan Nur Nabi of Surjodoy Youth Society. "Young people are committed to building a future where no one is left behind."

Md Abul Kalam Azad, Just Energy Transition Manager at ActionAid Bangladesh, said: "A just energy transition is about adopting clean and renewable energy technologies with fairness and justice. Moving away from fossil fuels will improve air quality, but we must protect workers and vulnerable communities."

He added that Jetnet-BD aims to amplify the voices of civil society, promote renewable energy, protect the environment, and influence policymakers towards a just transition in Bangladesh.

The Dhaka rally was part of a nationwide initiative. In 20 districts across seven divisions, Jetnet-BD members observed the day through human chains, rallies, school campaigns, cultural events, folk songs, art competitions, tree planting, and policy dialogues. These activities engaged hundreds of students and local leaders, resulting in commitments from some policymakers to attend follow-up meetings and raising public awareness about air pollution and energy transition. The events reflected the united voice of young people and civil society in opposition to pollution and in support of clean air. The movement urges all citizens and policymakers to join and take concrete steps for cleaner air in Bangladesh.