DNCC and CAPS Lead Dialogue on Green Energy and Urban Justice

NN Report:

In a landmark event aimed at addressing urban justice and sustainability, the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), in collaboration with the Center for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS), organized a high-level policy dialogue titled “The Role of Renewable Energy in Building a Just Urban City” at the DNCC Nagar Bhaban auditorium in Gulshan-2.

Presided over by Professor Mohammad Ali Naqi, Head of the Architecture Department at the State University of Bangladesh, the event brought together policymakers, academics, environmentalists, and youth leaders to discuss the critical role of renewable energy in creating a cleaner, fairer Dhaka.

DNCC Administrator Mr. Mohammad Azaz, the event’s Chief Guest, stressed the importance of rooftop solar power in Dhaka’s planned neighborhoods. Highlighting the city’s potential for solar energy due to uniform building structures, he proposed a 5% holding tax rebate for buildings equipped with rooftop solar panels. “A just transition to renewable energy is not only possible but essential,” he said, urging continued research and public engagement.

Delivering the keynote address, CAPS Chairman Professor Dr. Ahmad Kamruzzaman Majumder painted a grim picture of Dhaka’s environmental conditions. Citing Bangladesh’s 175th position in Yale University’s 2024 Environmental Performance Index, he called for urgent action to combat the consequences of unplanned urbanization and industrial growth.

Several other prominent speakers shared insights and recommendations. DNCC Chief Executive Officer Abu Sayed Md. Kamruzzaman called for comprehensive planning to ensure urban justice. BIP President Prof. Dr. Adil Mohammed Khan emphasized the country’s renewable energy potential and the need for public awareness. Professor Dr. M. Shahidul Islam from Dhaka University urged reductions in energy demand and greater use of public transport.

Former BUET Dean Dr. Ijaz Hossain advocated for identifying major polluters and promoting solar-powered electric vehicles. Legal experts like Supreme Court lawyer Rasheduzzaman Majumder and Barrister Newaz Morshed stressed policy harmonization and transportation reform. Youth leaders such as Sohanur Rahman and Fariha Sultana Ami called for inclusive climate policy and youth involvement in green innovation.

Over 35 environmental and youth organizations co-organized the dialogue, including ActionAid, BELA, YouthNet Global, Waterkeepers Bangladesh, and Mission Green Bangladesh. The event also drew university students and members of civil society, making it a platform for diverse and dynamic exchange.

The event concluded with a strong collective call to integrate renewable energy into Dhaka’s urban framework as a vital step toward building a just, livable, and sustainable city.