At a recent dialogue organized by Oxfam International in Bangladesh, speakers emphasized the importance of increasing the use of renewable energy to combat the effects of climate change, protect the environment, and ensure energy security. The discussion, titled ‘National Dialogue: Green Growth and Just Transition in Bangladesh – Need for Corporate and International Cooperation’, was attended by experts and stakeholders from various sectors.
Carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases produced by fossil fuels are considered and proven to be the main cause of global warming. The speakers stressed that the use of fossil fuels is increasing, leading to a warming planet and an increasingly hostile climate and atmosphere. Therefore, they called for a shift towards renewable energy sources.
Saber Hossain Chowdhury, President of the Standing Committee on the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, was the chief guest at the event. Other special guests included Power Cell Director General Mohammad Hossain, BGMEA President Farooq Hasan, United International University Center for Energy Research Director Shahriar Ahmed Chowdhury, and Bangladesh Apparel Exchange CEO Mostafiz Uddin. Ashish Damle, Country Director of Oxfam Bangladesh, gave the welcome speech.
Mohammad Hossain, director general of Power Cell, highlighted the need for energy security in Bangladesh. He said, “The Russia-Ukraine war has taught us to rely on our own energy to ensure energy security. So our main focus now is on renewable energy.”
Farooq Hasan, president of BGMEA, raised the issue of financing for renewable energy projects. He noted that while big companies are able to secure bank loans for power generation from solar power plants, entrepreneurs of medium and small industries are not getting the same support. This lack of financing options is causing them to lose enthusiasm for generating electricity from solar. However, he added that efforts are underway to provide medium and small entrepreneurs with access to loans for renewable energy projects.
The speakers agreed that energy security cannot be achieved through the use of fossil fuels alone. Instead, renewable energy must be prioritized and promoted to combat climate change and protect the environment. They emphasized the need for corporate and international cooperation to achieve a just and sustainable transition to a green economy in Bangladesh.
In conclusion, it is clear that renewable energy is key to combating the effects of climate change and ensuring energy security in Bangladesh. As the country continues to develop and expand, it is crucial that renewable energy becomes a priority for all stakeholders, from large corporations to small entrepreneurs. Through cooperation and investment in renewable energy projects, Bangladesh can take a significant step towards a sustainable and green future.
