In observance of World City Day 2024, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, called on young people to take a leading role in creating livable cities free of air and noise pollution. Speaking in a pre-recorded message as the chief guest at a youth dialogue titled “Youth leading climate and local action for cities”, Rizwana emphasized the urgency of the pollution crisis and encouraged youth to take proactive steps towards building healthier urban environments.
The event, held at the A.S. Mahmood Seminar Hall at the Daily Star Center, was organized by the Center for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS) and World Vision Bangladesh.
“Air pollution in our cities has reached a critical level, putting public health at risk,” stated Rizwana Hasan. “Our youth must lead the charge to create pollution-free, healthy cities. With their hands and vision, we can realize the dream of a sustainable urban environment.”
She further underscored the importance of public awareness, adding, “Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute to a livable city, but youth, in particular, must take on a more active role.”
Reflecting on the broader challenges facing urban areas, Rizwana Hasan pointed out the ongoing issues with waste management in Bangladesh’s cities, which persist even after 53 years of independence. “Cities like Dhaka still lack sufficient spaces for children to play and develop—a fundamental component of a livable city. This responsibility for change does not fall on any one group alone, but our young people, especially young women, can make a lasting difference,” she emphasized.
Rizwana Hasan also addressed the health consequences of pollution, citing data that highlights Dhaka as one of the most polluted and unlivable cities globally. “Air and noise pollution in Dhaka are severe, with harmful impacts on public health. This pollution is responsible for many premature deaths in our country and is reducing the national average life expectancy by 5-7 years.”
The dialogue was presided over by Chandan Z. Gomez, Senior Director of World Vision Bangladesh, and featured a panel of distinguished speakers, including Dr. M. Shahidul Islam, Chair of the Geography and Environment Department at Dhaka University; Prof. Mohammad Ali Naki, Vice President of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB); and Prof. Dr. Ahmad Kamruzzaman Majumder, Chairman of CAPS.
The keynote presentation was delivered by World Vision’s child representative, Fatima Islam Taj, and the discussion was moderated by Md. Mostafizur Rahman, a member of the Youth Forum.
Addressing the audience, YouthNet Global’s Chief Executive Coordinator, Sohanur Rahman, spoke on the compounded environmental and public health crises resulting from high levels of air, noise, and lead pollution in urban areas. “The pollution levels in our cities endanger lives daily; this issue extends beyond environmental concerns—it is a public health and climate crisis,” he stated.
He also announced that Bangladesh’s youth representatives would voice their call for climate justice at the upcoming COP29 conference in Baku. “We envision cities where everyone can live safely and comfortably. Our generation must take the lead in realizing the dream of a pollution-free and climate-resilient Dhaka,” he asserted.
CAPS Chairman Prof. Dr. Ahmad Kamruzzaman Majumder expressed optimism about a youth-driven initiative for cleaner cities. “Youth-led efforts toward a pollution-free city are our hope for the future. It’s crucial to foster environmental awareness among young people and implement effective strategies,” he noted.
Professor Mohammad Ali Naki of IAB stressed the need for youth involvement in urban planning. “Youth participation in planning and implementation can be a powerful force for change. Their voices and insights are essential to building pollution-free cities,” he stated.
Supporting this perspective, Dr. M. Shahidul Islam highlighted the necessity of decentralization, noting, “Youth involvement in city planning is critical, but sustainable solutions require decentralization. Young people’s initiatives offer promising pathways for solving urban challenges permanently.”
Throughout the event, young participants engaged actively, posing questions to the panelists regarding urban environmental challenges and pollution mitigation strategies. The speakers offered insights and guidance, encouraging these young changemakers to continue their advocacy for a cleaner, healthier future.
World Vision Bangladesh Deputy Director Manju Maria Palma expressed her confidence in the ongoing efforts of young environmental advocates, saying, “Our youth are already making strides in protecting the environment, which shines as a beacon of hope for future generations. Their contributions are essential to building a pollution-free, livable city.”
