Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, has said that air pollution cannot be eliminated overnight, but a cleaner future is possible if we change our mindset and way of life.
Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of the “Clean Air Mural Painting in Dhaka” campaign, held 28 May at Khilgaon Girls School and College with support from the World Bank, the Advisor noted that any available space for greenery in Khilgaon would be brought under tree plantation by the Forest Department.
Referring to the student-created murals, she remarked, “The messages in these artworks are clear and powerful. Your active participation reflects the potential for positive change in Bangladesh. I believe the youth are our future.”
She further said that to build a better Bangladesh by correcting past mistakes, the youth must lead the way. “If we continue as we have, our air will remain among the most polluted. But your artwork today gives us hope—Dhaka will someday come off the top of the pollution list.”
Urging students to take initiative in their communities, she said, “Don’t just wait for the government—change begins with you. Government action becomes effective when there is public demand. In the fight against air pollution and climate change, your awareness is the most powerful tool.”
The event was attended by Gail S. Martin, Acting Country Director of the World Bank, Un Soo of the World Bank, Ranjan Kumar Roy, Principal of Khilgaon Girls School and College, as well as teachers and students. The murals highlighted themes of blue skies, greenery, clean air, and climate justice.
Later, the Environment Advisor attended a roundtable discussion as chief guest, titled “Protecting Dhaka’s Rivers and Canals from Plastic Waste Through Circular Economy,” organized by The Business Standard under the theme “Save Canals, Save City.” She called on everyone to reduce personal use of plastic and polythene to help curb pollution.