Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan joined as the chief guest arranged by Netherlands Embassy in Dhaka on Tuesday. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Feb 11, 2025 (BSS) - Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today urged the business community and international partners to collaborate with their Bangladeshi counterparts to transition from fossil fuel-dependent energy production to renewable and sustainable sources.

She said energy supply shortages in the past two years severely affected industries, making sustainable energy solutions a necessity for both the country and the industry.

She made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest address at the inaugural ceremony of the Sustainable Apparel Forum (SAF) 2025.

The Netherlands Embassy in Dhaka arranged the event at a city hotel.

Highlighting the need for a more responsible approach to sustainability, the Environment Adviser said: "Having green factories or the highest number of environmentally certified factories does not automatically mean the sector is operating sustainably." 

She said the garment industry is not only energy-intensive but also heavily reliant on water and chemical management, making responsible production practices crucial.