Environment, Forest, and Climate Change adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, emphasised that industries must take responsibility for pollution control and be trained in remediation plans.
“Pollution control cannot rest solely with the government; industries must actively participate in addressing pollution,” she stated.
Speaking at the launch of the “Capacity Building for the Reduction of Lead Contamination in Bangladesh” initiative on Monday at the Hotel Intercontinental, Dhaka, the Environment Adviser stressed the urgent need for stricter regulations and greater industry accountability to tackle lead contamination in Bangladesh.
Hasan noted that, with support from international partners like France, the Department of Environment now has the capability to develop a time-bound action plan for addressing lead pollution. “While taking immediate action against all polluting industries may not be feasible, we must at least focus on those operating without environmental clearance,” she remarked.
The Adviser clarified that the objective is not to shut down industries but to ensure that they comply with environmental regulations, including obtaining clearance, assessing their locations, and implementing remediation measures. Environmental clearance certificates should include mandatory periodic remediation actions, compelling industries to clean up their operations within a set timeframe.
In terms of financial accountability, Hasan proposed the establishment of a pollution remediation fund, where industries would contribute an amount that would be reimbursed upon successful remediation. Failure to comply would result in the government using the fund for cleanup efforts.
To enhance monitoring and enforcement, she called for greater community involvement. “While enforcement must remain under government control, communities should play a role in monitoring environmental compliance,” she said.
The Adviser also stressed the importance of involving the National Board of Revenue (NBR) in the multi-stakeholder steering committee, aiming to transition from lead-acid batteries to lithium-ion alternatives through revised taxation policies.
Additionally, she highlighted the need for medical professionals to raise awareness about the health risks of lead contamination. Urging the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) to expedite the standardization of pollution control measures, she called for the adoption of global benchmarks where necessary.
“This initiative is crucial for public health and environmental protection,” she concluded. “Lead contamination poses a significant risk, especially to children. A structured action plan will help mitigate this threat and ensure a sustainable future.”
Dr. Md. Kamruzzaman, Director General of the Department of Environment, presided over the launch ceremony, while French Ambassador to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy attended as the guest of honor.
Additional speakers included Sheikh Sayidul Haque, Addl. Director General (Planning and Development) of DGHS; Dr. Tahmeed Ahmed, Executive Director of icddr,b; Maya Vandennent, Chief of Health at UNICEF Bangladesh; Mitali Das, Executive Director of Pure Earth Bangladesh; and Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator of Youth Net Global.
