DHAKA, June 25 (V7N) – Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today underscored the urgent reality of climate change, stating that its risks are "no longer a distant threat rather those are an inevitable reality." She emphasized the critical need for national preparedness and declared that "Adaptation must now be our key strategy."

The adviser made these remarks as the chief guest at an event titled "Discussion, Book Launching & Photo Exhibition on Lives on the Edge of Climate Change: Struggle, Hope and the Future," held at the DrikPath Bhaban in Shukrabad.

Hasan highlighted the ongoing global challenge of climate inaction, noting that "Reducing fossil fuel use is a necessity of the time, yet developed countries remain unwilling to compromise their interests."

Despite these global dynamics, she affirmed that the government of Bangladesh is actively addressing climate-induced challenges. She mentioned that 42 projects have already been undertaken under the Climate Change Trust Fund. Among the practical measures being implemented, she announced that 100 cold storage facilities will be established to allow farmers to preserve their produce free of charge, a crucial step in ensuring food security amidst changing climate patterns.

The adviser also stated that the government is working to facilitate access to climate funding for non-governmental organizations through necessary policy support. Additionally, she informed attendees that embankment repair projects are underway in coastal areas to safeguard communities, with emergency measures already in effect to protect vulnerable populations.

The event was presided over by Tasmima Hossain, Chairperson of Breaking the Silence and Editor of The Daily Ittefaq. Other distinguished guests included Ashish Damle, Country Director of Oxfam in Bangladesh; Dr. Shahidul Alam, eminent photojournalist, social activist, and founder of Drik Picture Library; Md. Rakibul Hasan Mukul, Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests; and Md. Zahurul Islam, Additional Director General of Bangladesh Water Development Board.

Following her speech, the adviser officially unveiled the book 'Lives on the Edge of Climate Change: Struggle, Hope and the Future' and inaugurated a captivating photo exhibition, showcasing the human impact of climate change in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, increased frequency and intensity of cyclones, storm surges, floods, droughts, and salinity intrusion, all of which pose significant threats to its agriculture, infrastructure, and coastal communities. The Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund (BCCTF), established in 2010, is a key national mechanism to finance climate change adaptation and mitigation projects from its own resources. The government has consistently invested in various initiatives, including coastal embankment improvements, to enhance resilience and protect livelihoods.

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