One of the unfortunate consequences of Bangladesh's rapid development has been the impact on our nature, specifically the diversity of our ecology.
Case in point, the Sundarbans -- the world's largest mangrove forest and home to some 269 different animal species -- recognized as a Unesco World Heritage Site, took an irreparable hit to its ecology due to a catastrophic oil spill almost a decade ago.
While we haven't seen ecological damage of similar magnitude in recent years, our nation's rising development is having a far less noticeable, yet just as damaging, effect on our natural ecology, especially in areas such as our wetlands.
To that end, the Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Ministry's recent pledge to conserve and restore our wetlands is incredibly timely and points to an understanding of the important role that our wetlands play in retaining our ecological integrity and indeed our economy as well.
Wetlands cover roughly 6% of the Earth's land surface and are vital for human health, food supply, tourism, and jobs, while also playing a crucial role in both achieving sustainable development and the fight against climate change.
As a nation on the frontlines in the battle against climate change, it would behoove Bangladesh to be as pro-active in its ecological conservation efforts as much as possible. And these efforts do not have to be at odds with our development efforts.
There is more to a country's progress than just GDP growth numbers, after all, and for Bangladesh -- a land of rich rivers, forests, and other ecosystems boasting a rich and varied biodiversity -- it is important for its conservation efforts to remain on track. However, we must also ensure that our development occurs at an understandable rate -- unchecked development is not the sustainable model of development for any nation.
Bangladesh is known for its natural beauty, and we need to retain that identity no matter what.
