World Bank Vice President Martin Raiser praised Bangladesh for its progress in implementing environmental policies and reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting these efforts in line with global standards.
On September 29, 2024, a high-level meeting took place at the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. The meeting included representatives from the ministry and the World Bank.
During the session, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan announced that the World Bank will provide $300 million to support the Bangladesh Clean Air Project (BCAP), according to a press release.
The project aims to improve air quality management and cut emissions from key sectors. It will be funded through a credit from the International Development Association (IDA), with a possible grant for clean cooking initiatives under the National Air Quality Management Plan.
Rizwana shared these updates following the meeting, which included World Bank’s South Asia Region Vice President Martin Raiser and Bangladesh Country Director Abdoulaye Seck. She also sought the Bank’s help in managing waste and restoring Dhaka’s canals to create a “blue network.”
Additionally, Rizwana mentioned the potential for support in creating a Loss and Damage Fund, as well as help with implementing the National Adaptation Plan (NAP). She emphasized the government’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development, particularly through integrated water resource management and climate change strategies.
Martin Raiser applauded Bangladesh’s environmental policies and confirmed the Bank’s support for aligning them with global practices. Abdoulaye Seck highlighted the need for international collaboration and smart investments to achieve long-term sustainability.
Top officials from both the Ministry and the World Bank attended the meeting. The discussions ended with a promise of closer cooperation on environmental governance, climate resilience, and water management to build a sustainable future for Bangladesh.
