Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury has urged for increased climate funding for vulnerable countries like Bangladesh.
He emphasised Bangladesh's unique position as a "laboratory of climate research." The country experiences a variety of climate hazards with growing frequency and intensity, impacting various sectors like agriculture, health, and water resources.
The environment minister said this during a meeting with Dr Veronica Doerr, manager of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). The discussion focused on the interconnectedness of climate change with agriculture, health, and other critical areas.
He highlighted Bangladesh's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), with both conditional and unconditional targets to address climate change. He elaborated on the challenges faced by Bangladesh, including salinity intrusion in coastal areas, rising sea levels, and desertification in the north. He emphasised the government's comprehensive approach to tackling climate change, including initiatives like rainwater harvesting and early warning systems.
Doerr expressed Australia's commitment to supporting Bangladesh in its climate efforts. She acknowledged Bangladesh's leadership in climate action through its NDC, National Adaptation Plan (NAP), and focus on locally led adaptation strategies. Dr. Doerr also commended Bangladesh's strong voice in international climate forums.
Prof Shahla Hosseini Bai of Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia, and Prof Georgette Leah Burns; Dr. Pratibha Singh, South Asia Regional Manager, Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research (ACIAR), India were present at the time, among others.
