Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today spoke as the chief guest at a meeting held at the Forest Bhaban in Agargaon, Dhaka. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Dec 6, 2025 (BSS) - Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today said the young generation’s leadership in wildlife protection is now undeniable. 

She stated that the increasing interest among young people in rescuing, caring for, and rehabilitating wildlife back into nature is a hopeful sign for Bangladesh.

Public awareness on wildlife safety and conservation has risen significantly compared to earlier, Rizwana said. 

Addressing the youth, the environment adviser said a united voice is essential in safeguarding wildlife. 

Those who try to destroy wildlife habitats often seek public support by citing economic reasons, she noted.

'To counter them, awareness, love for nature, and dissemination of accurate information must be strengthened," she while speaking as the chief guest at a meeting held at the Forest Bhaban in Agargaon, Dhaka, with volunteers and organisations engaged in wildlife, forest, and biodiversity conservation. 

Rizwana said people must uphold ethical values that ensure the coexistence of humans and nature.

"Our religious and social values teach compassion, protection, and responsible behaviour toward all living species. Standing beside vulnerable people and vulnerable animals is the truest expression of humanity," she added.

The adviser announced at the event that next year, 64 wildlife conservation workers—one from each district—will be officially recognized. 

This initiative, she said, will motivate the younger generation and encourage local leadership in wildlife preservation.

 She also informed that the government has approved the formation of a new unit to address wildlife crimes. 

Additionally, Rizwana said, initiatives are underway to ensure modern equipment and transport facilities for wildlife rescue operations.

The event was chaired by Chief Conservator of Forests Md. Amir Hosain Chowdhury. 

Guests included Director General of the National Institute of Biotechnology Dr. Md. Sagir Ahmed; biodiversity expert Dr. Mohammad Ali Reza Khan; founding Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at Rajshahi University Dr. Md. Jalal Uddin Sardar; and founder and chief adviser of BBCF Dr. Mollah Rezaul Karim.

 Several individuals, including Dr. Mohammad Ali Reza Khan, and organisations were awarded for their special contributions to environmental and biodiversity conservation.

Earlier in the day, Adviser Rizwana Hasan attended the opening session of the Bangladesh Energy Conference 2025 at the Bangladesh Military Museum as the chief guest. 

There she emphasised effective rooftop solar installation in government buildings, adopting development plans based on environmental impact, and ensuring transparent decision-making through consultation with relevant stakeholders.