Environmental, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan emphasised the need for integrating environmental policies into agri-food systems during her address at the 8th IUCN Regional Conservation Forum.
The forum, held in Bangkok on Wednesday, brought together experts from across Asia to discuss pressing environmental issues, according to a press release.
She called for the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices, including organic food production and reduced use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers, and support of local farming and traditional farming by forest-dependent Indigenous communities.
Speaking at a session titled "Transforming Agri-Food Systems: Integration of Environmental Policies into Agri-Food Systems: Challenges and Opportunities," Rizwana highlighted the critical importance of aligning agricultural practices with environmental sustainability.
She pointed out that the current agricultural systems are one of the major contributors to environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil depletion, and water scarcity.
"Integrating environmental policies into our agricultural systems is not just a necessity but a responsibility we must embrace," she said.
The challenges are significant, but the opportunities for creating a sustainable future are even greater, Rizwana stated.
Environment Adviser also discussed the specific challenges faced by countries like Bangladesh, where agricultural practices are deeply intertwined with the livelihoods of millions.
She called for innovative policy solutions and greater regional cooperation to address these issues effectively.
The adviser, in a separate meeting with the DG, IUCN requested support in developing a progressive legal regime in Bangladesh on forest protection and conservation, setting up a sanctuary for orphan elephants, and restoring the ecological integrity of Saint Martin Island.
The DG assured of technical support in this regard alongside helping to find resources.
