World Environment Day in Faridpur Promotes Renewable Energy

A discussion meeting highlighting the importance of solar, wind and other renewable energy sources was held at Mahim Institution in Faridpur on Sunday morning to mark World Environment Day.

The event was organized by the Social Area Committee (SANAC)-Faridpur and attended by more than 100 students. Alongside the discussion, a drawing competition, quiz competition, anti-corruption oath-taking ceremony and signature campaign were also held.

The program was presided over by SANAC President Professor Shipra Roy. Mahim Institution Headmaster Madhav Chandra Das delivered the welcome address.

Among the speakers were SANAC Vice President Monowara Morsheda Chowdhury, members Rezaul Karim, Govinda Bagchi and Monowarul Islam, and Faridpur District Environment Department Deputy Director Md. Saeed Anwar. The session was moderated by TIB Area Coordinator Md. Golam Mostafa.

At the beginning of the program, SANAC member Rezaul Karim presented a concept paper highlighting the importance of solar, wind and renewable energy. He discussed the growing global use of renewable energy and the challenges posed by climate change, including rising temperatures and inadequate climate financing from developed countries.

He also presented 12 recommendations from SANAC-TIB. Key recommendations included formulating an integrated energy policy to accelerate the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, increasing government investment in the renewable energy sector, reducing customs duties, VAT and other taxes on renewable energy equipment imports, providing subsidies and incentives for businesses, and strengthening local manufacturing capacity for renewable energy equipment.

In her speech, SANAC Vice President Monowara Morsheda Chowdhury called for the strict enforcement of existing environmental laws to protect forests, wildlife, biodiversity, wetlands and natural resources, including the Sundarbans.

Deputy Director Md. Saeed Anwar said global warming is causing glaciers to melt and sea levels to rise, increasing environmental risks worldwide. He urged collective action to address environmental challenges and encouraged greater use of renewable energy. He also introduced students to the concepts of climate and weather.

Following the discussion, students participated in a quiz competition and recited the anti-corruption oath.