In an effort to address wildlife-related crimes, the government has unveiled a zero-tolerance policy, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Md Shahab Uddin said.
The Wildlife Crime Control Unit is actively engaged in raising public awareness about wildlife conservation, particularly focusing on issues such as illegal wildlife trade, hunting, killing, and trafficking.
Furthermore, various departments and field units are carrying out regular patrols to curb the illegal extraction of forest resources.
Minister Shahab Uddin made these remarks as the chief guest during a discussion program organized by the Forest Department on the occasion of International Biodiversity Day 2023, under the theme "From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity".
He highlighted the government's commitment to biodiversity conservation, noting that Bangladesh has already signed the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity and enacted the Bangladesh Biodiversity Act-2017 to ensure the protection and sustainable utilization of biodiversity.
To preserve biodiversity and facilitate the free roaming and breeding of wildlife, the government has declared 25 Wildlife Sanctuaries, 20 National Parks, 2 Special Biodiversity Conservation Areas, 2 Marine Protected Areas, 1 Botanical Garden, 3 Ecoparks, and 2 Vulture Safe Areas across the country.
Notably, 173,800 hectares of the Bay of Bengal and 1,743 square kilometers adjacent to Saint Martin's Island have been designated as Marine Protected Areas, allowing for the conservation of aquatic biodiversity.
Additionally, Ratargul in the Sylhet region and Altadighi in Naogaon have been declared as Special Biodiversity Conservation Areas. Bangladesh is also home to 2 Ramsar sites and 6 flyway sites.
Minister Shahab Uddin emphasized the government's support for biodiversity research and conservation efforts.
The country is nearing completion of the red list, which identifies rare and endangered plant species. Various government-funded projects are underway to safeguard the Sundarbans, a biodiversity hotspot, with enhanced smart patrolling contributing to its protection.
Approximately 52% of the Sundarbans area is encompassed within wildlife sanctuaries, and alternative employment opportunities have been created for the local population dependent on the region.
The minister emphasized the vital importance of conserving biodiversity, as damage to plants and animals can lead to severe environmental consequences and pose a threat to human civilization.
He called for collective commitment and engagement to ensure effective and dynamic biodiversity restoration activities.
The discussion program was attended by Deputy Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ministry Habibun Nahar, President of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry Saber Hossain Chowdhury, Secretary of the Ministry Farhina Ahmed, Additional Secretary Iqbal Abdullah Harun, and Director General of the Department of Environment Dr. Abdul Hamid, among others.
The event was presided over by Md Amir Hossain Chowdhury, Chief Conservator of Forest Department.
Prior to the discussion program, a vibrant rally was held, with participation from individuals representing various professions, marching from Shahbagh to the TSC of Dhaka University.