The funding will come from an International Development Association credit, potentially supplemented by a grant for clean cooking initiatives as part of the National Air Quality Management Plan.
The World Bank has announced a $300 million investment to support a clean air initiative in Bangladesh, aimed at enhancing air quality management and reducing carbon emissions across key sectors. The announcement was made by Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the Environment Advisor to the interim government, following a meeting with Martin Raiser, the World Bank’s Vice President for South Asia, and Abdoulaye Seck, the country director for Bangladesh and Bhutan.
The funding will come from an International Development Association (IDA) credit, potentially supplemented by a grant for clean cooking initiatives as part of the National Air Quality Management Plan. Hasan emphasized the need for further assistance in waste management and the restoration of Dhaka’s canals, which are vital for creating a “blue network” within the city.
During the discussions, Hasan also proposed support for a Loss and Damage Fund and assistance in implementing the National Adaptation Plan (NAP). She reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development, highlighting the importance of integrated water resource management and climate change mitigation strategies.
Raiser praised Bangladesh’s proactive stance on environmental policies and reiterated the World Bank’s commitment to aligning these efforts with global best practices. Seck underscored the significance of international collaboration and strategic investments to achieve long-term sustainability goals.
The meeting also included senior officials from the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, emphasizing a united approach to enhancing environmental governance, climate resilience, and water resource management. Both parties concluded with a mutual commitment to deepen cooperation, aiming for a sustainable future for Bangladesh.
