At a World Environment Day programme in Dhaka, activists and citizens urged a swift shift to renewable energy, calling for fossil fuel subsidy removal and stronger policy support for clean energy.
Environmental activists, researchers, cultural figures and citizens on Friday called for an accelerated transition to renewable energy in Bangladesh, urging policymakers to end support for fossil fuels and expand investment in clean energy solutions.
The call came during a citizen gathering, mime performance and poster distribution programme held at Shyamoli Park in the capital to mark World Environment Day 2026.
Organised under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”, the programme was arranged by Dharitri Rokkhay Amra (DHORA) and brought together representatives from more than 29 environmental, development, youth and civic organisations across the country.
Speakers at the event said Bangladesh remains one of the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, yet the expansion of fossil fuel-based projects continues. They stressed that a rapid and just transition to renewable energy is essential for addressing the climate crisis and ensuring a sustainable future.
They also called on the government to provide tax exemptions and necessary incentives for the renewable energy sector in the upcoming national budget while discontinuing subsidies and incentives for fossil fuels.
The speakers further urged greater use of solar and wind energy, an end to investments in fossil fuel projects and the expansion of environmentally friendly energy systems across the country.
As part of the programme, a mime performance highlighting the climate crisis and environmental protection was staged for the public. Posters carrying messages on renewable energy and climate justice were also distributed among visitors and local residents.
