In today's mechanized world, energy is crucial to technological progress. Modern life heavily relies on machines, and fuel is vital to keep them operational. Fossil fuels -- including petroleum, coal, and natural gas -- currently fulfill over 80% of the global energy demand, making us highly dependent on them.
However, this dependence could lead to major crises in the future. The three primary concerns regarding global reliance on fossil fuels are uncertainty of energy security, environmental pollution, and geopolitical conflicts surrounding oil.
As the global population grows, the number of vehicles and industries also rises, causing a rapid increase in fuel demand. In 2007, the total number of vehicles worldwide was 806 million, which is projected to exceed 1.3 billion by 2030 and 2 billion by 2050. In 2008, the daily consumption of petroleum and other liquid fuels was 85.7 million barrels, which is expected to rise to 112.2 million barrels by 2035.
A study revealed that fossil-fuel consumption was almost negligible until the mid-18th century, but increased to 7,500 million tons of natural gas, 6,000 million tons of petroleum, and 2,000 million tons of coal by the end of the 20th century. The reserves of these fossil fuels are finite and non-renewable, and may be depleted within the next 40-50 years.
Coal and gas-based energy projects have been major contributors to electricity generation in Bangladesh for a long time, but their usage has resulted in issues such as air pollution, climate change, and health hazards. The combustion of coal and gas for power generation emits harmful gasses like carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, which cause environmental pollution and exacerbate global warming.
An international study found that fossil fuels are responsible for one-third of premature deaths caused by air pollution in Bangladesh, which ranks as the second highest rate globally.
The ban on two-stroke, three-wheeled baby taxis in Dhaka has reduced air pollution by up to 40%, indicating that minimizing fossil fuel use could significantly decrease premature deaths. During the first three months of the Covid-19 pandemic, reduced human activity led to a 40-50% improvement in air quality. Shifting to renewable energy is essential to reduce the deaths related to fossil fuel pollution.
Fossil fuel consumption accounted for 54.4% in 1995, which increased to 73.8% by 2014, with an average annual growth rate of 1.62%. The Paris Agreement's main objective is to keep the global temperature increase below 1.5C, which requires a major reduction in fossil fuel usage by 2030. However, research from the United Nations Climate Programme shows that current global fossil fuel consumption is 120% higher than the required limit.
Bangladesh urgently needs to phase out coal and gas-based energy projects and accelerate the transition to renewable energy to safeguard the environment, economy, and public health. Adopting renewable energy is crucial for the country to lead efforts against the impacts of climate change effectively.
The government of Bangladesh has already initiated various measures to address climate change. To meet the Paris Agreement target, keeping the average global temperature increase below 1.5C is crucial, which requires phasing out fossil fuel use. Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, can play a significant role in achieving this goal by reducing carbon emissions and providing long-term energy security.
Existing coal power plants in the country include the Payra, Matarbari, and Rampal Power Plants, while gas-based plants include Ashuganj, Siddirganj, and Comilla projects. Though these fossil fuel-based projects meet current electricity needs, they cause long-term environmental damage.
Fossil fuels are responsible for one-third of premature deaths caused by air pollution in Bangladesh, which ranks as the second highest rate globally
Renewable energy adoption would not only enhance energy security but also shield Bangladesh from fluctuations in global energy prices. Phasing out fossil fuels would save foreign exchange by cutting costs related to coal and gas imports. Moreover, renewable energy projects have the potential to boost the economy by creating employment opportunities and ensuring reliable electricity access, particularly in rural areas, thereby promoting overall development.
Bangladesh has immense renewable energy potential. Its geographic location and natural resources offer significant opportunities for generating electricity through solar and wind power. Through phasing out fossil fuel and transitioning to renewable energy, the country could substantially cut carbon emissions and set an example in combating global climate change.
Transitioning from coal and gas-based projects to renewable energy presents several challenges, including a lack of technical expertise, infrastructure issues, and the need for significant initial investment. Implementing renewable energy projects requires advanced technology and skilled manpower, which are currently limited in Bangladesh.
However, these challenges can be addressed through government policy support, global investment, and effective planning to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Besides government efforts, the involvement of the private sector and international cooperation is also crucial. To attract global investors, Bangladesh should create an investor-friendly environment and provide long-term incentives for renewable energy projects.
Renewable energy usage will not only protect the environment but also enhance economic development and improve the quality of life for the people. This transition is not just timely but also a necessary step to help Bangladesh achieve its goals of sustainable development and environmental conservation.
As one of the countries most affected by climate change, Bangladesh rightfully deserves fair compensation from developed nations. Based on the commitments made by developed countries under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), we are entitled to climate finance. The upcoming COP29 conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, next November is a crucial opportunity for Bangladesh to focus on securing the financial resources needed to address climate change impacts. This climate finance is not a donation but rather our rightful claim for the reparations.
Fossil fuel consumption is a major contributor to carbon emissions, making it essential for the government to phase out this sector and increase investments in renewable energy expansion. By transitioning to renewable energy, we can achieve energy self-sufficiency while significantly reducing our impact on the environment.
Mamun Kabir, Manager of Communications and Advocacy, Waterkeepers Bangladesh.
