Environment Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury seeks increased climate funding for vulnerable nations

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury sought increased climate funding for vulnerable countries like Bangladesh.

Emphasising Bangladesh's unique position as a "laboratory of climate research", he said Bangladesh experiences different climate hazards with growing frequency and intensity, impacting various sectors like agriculture, health and water resources.

The environment minister made the remarks when an Australian delegation, led by Manager of the Australian Center for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) Dr Veronica Doerr, met him at Bangladesh Secretariat here. 

During the meeting, Saber Hossain highlighted Bangladesh's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) with both conditional and unconditional targets to address climate change. 

He elaborated on the challenges faced by Bangladesh, including salinity intrusion in coastal areas, rising sea levels, and desertification in the north. 

The minister put emphasis on the government's comprehensive approach to tackling climate change, including initiatives like rainwater harvesting and early warning systems.

Dr Doerr expressed Australia's commitment to supporting Bangladesh in its climate efforts and acknowledged Bangladesh's leadership in climate action through its NDC, National Adaptation Plan (NAP), and locally led adaptation strategies. 

She also commended Bangladesh's strong voice in international climate forums.

Prof Shahla Hosseini Bai, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia; Prof Georgette Leah Burns, Griffith University, Australia; Dr Pratibha Singh, South Asia Regional Manager, Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research (ACIAR), India; and Dr Mrinmoy Guha Neogi, Deputy Project Leader, University of Western Australia; were also present on the occasion.