The pressing environmental challenges of our time
Dr. Forqan Uddin Ahmed :
The world today faces a host of environmental challenges that threaten both the planet’s ecosystems and human society. Climate change, primarily caused by human activities such as deforestation, industrialization, and the burning of fossil fuels, is the most pressing issue. Air, water, and soil pollution are causing significant harm to human health, with millions of people around the world suffering from diseases linked to environmental contaminants. Furthermore, the overuse and depletion of natural resources are creating an unsustainable burden on the planet, particularly in areas such as water, forests, and fossil fuels. This over-exploitation not only harms the environment but also undermines the long-term well-being of human populations, particularly vulnerable communities who are often the most affected by these environmental crises.
Bangladesh is frequently noted in international media for ranking first or second in air pollution. A survey by the World Bank indicates that approximately 32 per cent of fatalities in the nation stem from pollution. Human actions are responsible for the current state of the environment. Without discrimination, we are ruining a valuable gift from the Creator -nature, where human civilization, along with numerous animals, is succumbing to the wrath of nature. The natural equilibrium is no longer correct. Bangladesh’s six seasons have been overshadowed by extreme heatwaves all year long.
Lately, there has been a notion that ‘development takes precedence over the environment.’ We have been listening to this for a considerable period. Indeed, it is a harmful one. Progress must never occur at the expense of the environment. We will not pursue a development model that harms the environment. If the ‘environment first, then development’ approach is adopted, every city will be inhabitable. Balancing development with the environment in Dhaka city has emerged as a significant challenge. Coordinated actions must be implemented to enhance the city’s livability and environment. Collaborating among the government, NGOs, and the community can transform Dhaka into a more sustainable, livable, and eco-friendly city. We have no concern for the environment. At some point, the environmental catastrophe in Bangladesh can be diminished to the extent it has currently attained. This will aid us in sustainable growth.
To create a safe and balanced environment, it is essential to take concrete steps at local, national, and global levels. The first step is to promote the use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. These clean energy sources can help reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, which are a major contributor to climate change. Governments, industries, and individuals should invest in renewable energy technologies and infrastructure to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable energy use. Another key step is to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. Traditional farming methods often contribute to environmental degradation through the overuse of pesticides, soil erosion, and deforestation. Transitioning to more sustainable practices, such as organic farming, agroforestry, and permaculture, can help protect soil quality, conserve water, and preserve biodiversity. Additionally, sustainable agriculture ensures food security while minimizing the environmental impact of food production. The next important step is to focus on waste reduction and recycling. The growing volume of waste, particularly plastic waste, is a major environmental concern. By adopting a circular economy approach, society can reduce waste and promote the reuse of materials. This includes encouraging recycling, reducing packaging, and supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability. Moreover, policies that regulate waste disposal and promote waste-to-energy technologies can help mitigate the environmental impact of landfills and waste incineration. Lastly, it is important to promote biodiversity conservation through the protection of natural habitats and the restoration of ecosystems. This involves efforts such as reforestation, the creation of protected areas, and the sustainable management of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Protecting biodiversity is not only crucial for the health of ecosystems but also for the many services they provide to humanity, such as clean water, food, and medicinal resources.
Dhaka’s environmental issues are numerous and demand rapid response. Air pollution is a major issue in the city. Industrial emissions, construction activities, and vehicle exhaust all contribute to dangerously high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5), ranking Dhaka among the most polluted cities in the world. Air pollution offers serious health concerns, particularly to people with pre-existing respiratory problems, and worsens cardiovascular disease in the general population. Another important issue is traffic congestion, which Dhaka residents face on a daily basis. The city’s transportation infrastructure is inadequate to accommodate the rising population, resulting in gridlock and excessive commuting times. This not only wastes valuable time, but it also greatly increases carbon emissions, thereby deteriorating air quality. The lack of an efficient public transportation system causes more people to use private vehicles for commuting.
Waste management in Dhaka is also a major issue, as the city produces thousands of tons of waste each day, much of which is improperly disposed of. This leads to clogged drains, water contamination, and harm to the environment. The waste management system is overwhelmed, with inadequate recycling infrastructure. Additionally, water pollution and scarcity are urgent problems due to contamination and depletion of resources. The city’s population is growing rapidly, and without improved water management practices, future generations will face even greater challenges in securing clean water. Finally, the loss of green spaces in Dhaka contributes to the urban heat island effect, where the temperature in urban areas is significantly higher than in surrounding rural areas. The rapid destruction of forests and green belts to accommodate urban development worsens air quality and reduces biodiversity, making it more difficult for Dhaka to become a truly sustainable city.
(The writer is former Deputy Director General, Bangladesh Ansar and VDP).
