Bangladesh is reviewing an AI-based environmental monitoring platform that could provide real-time pollution data, strengthen oversight of industrial emissions and wastewater, and support evidence-based environmental management nationwide.
Bangladesh is considering the use of artificial intelligence and online monitoring technologies to strengthen environmental pollution surveillance and improve technology-based environmental management, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo said during a meeting with a delegation from China’s PowerChina Group on Wednesday (June 10).
The meeting, held at the Bangladesh Secretariat, focused on the potential use of AI and real-time monitoring systems to collect and analyse data on water, air and noise pollution and support environmental decision-making through data-driven approaches.
During the meeting, PowerChina Group delegation head Han Kun presented the concept of a “Bangladesh Online Environmental Monitoring and Review Platform”, outlining how advanced technologies could be used to monitor key wastewater parameters in industrial facilities continuously.
According to the proposal, the system would enable online monitoring of various wastewater indicators including pH, temperature, colour intensity (Colority), flow rate, CODcr, NH₃-N and Total Suspended Solids (TSS). The company also proposed enhanced environmental oversight in major industrial zones and factories through the monitoring of E. coli, heavy metals, oil and grease and other industry-specific pollutants.
Mintoo said Bangladesh currently relies mainly on manual sample collection and routine inspections to monitor pollution levels. However, he noted that the government is reviewing the potential of modern technologies and technical cooperation to assess pollution levels and obtain real-time environmental data accurately.
The two sides also exchanged views on modernising environmental monitoring systems, expanding technological cooperation and working jointly to help achieve sustainable development goals.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and representatives of PowerChina Group attended the meeting.
