Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, highlighted the necessity for regional cooperation in addressing climate change impacts at the “Annual Community of Practice (COP) Network Convention.” She emphasized the importance of data sharing between upstream and downstream countries, called for international aid for achieving net-zero carbon emissions, and underscored women’s vital role in climate adaptation strategies. The event included the launch of the “Women’s Climate Action Network” and awarded women for their contributions to combating climate change.
On Sunday, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, emphasized the critical necessity for enhanced regional collaboration to combat the adverse impacts of climate change. During her address at the “Annual Community of Practice (COP) Network Convention,” organized by Manusher Jonno Foundation under the project “Empower: Women for Climate Resilient Societies” at the BRAC Centre Inn in Dhaka, she highlighted that upstream countries must provide essential data regarding rainfall, structural conditions, and water availability to their downstream counterparts. Rizwana asserted, “Both upstream and downstream countries must work together to this end.” Furthermore, she informed the attendees that the government is implementing measures to mitigate food shortages during natural disasters and reinforced the call for international collaboration to achieve net-zero carbon emissions while securing funding from loss and damage funds. Rizwana acknowledged the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and committed to ensuring their active participation in the National Adaptation Plan. The convention, presided over by Ms. Shaheen Anam, Executive Director of Manusher Jonno Foundation, featured remarks from notable figures including Maria Stridsman, Head of Development Cooperation at the Embassy of Sweden in Bangladesh, and Gitanjali Singh, Country Representative for UN Women. The event also marked the launch of the “Women’s Climate Action Network” and awarded five female entrepreneurs the “Women’s Role in Combating Climate Change Award 2024.” Throughout the convention, discussions revolved around strategies for enhancing women’s involvement and leadership roles in climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, alongside various panels focusing on empowerment, climate resilience, and gender equality.
The pressing issue of climate change necessitates immediate and effective collaborative efforts among nations, particularly those situated in shared water basins. Upstream and downstream countries must coordinate their actions and share vital information to develop resilient strategies against climate-related challenges. The role of women is crucial in these climate initiatives, as they often bear the brunt of environmental degradation while being key drivers of change within their communities. The empowerment of women, alongside a focus on sustainability and resilience, is essential in addressing these multifaceted issues.
In conclusion, the remarks of Syeda Rizwana Hasan during the COP Network Convention illuminate the importance of regional cooperation in addressing climate change, particularly the need for communication between upstream and downstream countries. By prioritizing women’s participation in climate initiatives and securing international support for sustainable practices, a more resilient future can be achieved. The event successfully highlighted the intersection of gender equality and climate action, reinforcing the call for a collaborative and inclusive approach to combat climate-related adversities.
Original Source: businesspostbd.com
