Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today speoks at a seminar at the Dhaka University. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Jan 12, 2025 (BSS) - Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today said the government is committed to addressing air pollution through specific measures.

"The government is taking steps such as controlling road dust and waste burning to reduce public sufferings from air pollution," she said.

However, the adviser said, implementing long-term solutions like standardizing fuel and modernizing refineries require significant investment and time.

She made the remarks while speaking at a seminar titled 'Air Quality Research and Environmental Policy Discussion" organised by the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka at the Science Faculty of Dhaka University here.

Rizwana outlined ongoing efforts and future plans to mitigate air pollution in the country.

Highlighting the gravity of air pollution in Bangladesh, she said this is the first time in the country's history that the Cabinet has discussed air pollution, signifying the importance "we've attached to this issue".

The environment adviser called for behavioral changes, including use of masks and responsible waste disposal, while acknowledging multiple contributors to air pollution, such as road dust, waste burning, and outdated vehicles.

She announced plans to cover Dhaka's uncovered road dividers with grass during the monsoon and mentioned the formation of a task force and action groups to address specific challenges, such as repairing broken roads to prevent dust pollution.

Prof. Dr. Sayema Haque Bidisha, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of Dhaka University; Prof. Dr. Abdus Salam, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Dhaka University; and Amy Cass, Economic Officer at the U.S. Embassy Dhaka; were present at the seminar, among others.

Keynote presentations by global experts - Prof. Dr. James J. Schauer from the University of Wisconsin-Madison; Prof. Dr. Benjamin de Foy from Saint Louis University, and Prof. Dr. Jill Baumgartner from McGill University - offered valuable insights into air quality management and innovative approaches to tackle urban and industrial air pollution.

Research findings presented by Dr. Zahidul Quayyum (BRAC University), Dr. Ahmed Kamruzzaman Mazumder (Stamford University), Samiha Nahian (Dhaka University), Shahid Uz Zaman (BUET), and Dr. Ziaul Haque (Department of Environment) provided an in-depth analysis of air quality trends in Bangladesh and proposed recommendations.

The event also explored the Bangladesh National Air Quality Management Plan, focusing on implementing effective solutions to improve air quality across the nation.