Carrying out more research on the circular economy and adopting innovative, progressive ideas is essential, as these steps could enhance industrial productivity and strengthen Bangladesh’s economic growth, according to experts.
They made the observations at a seminar titled “Policy Dialogue on Circular Economy and SDG for Industry and Export Growth,” organised by the Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry Innovation and Research Centre (FBCCI-IRC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) at the FBCCI-IRC office in Dhaka on Wednesday.
Vice-Chairman of FBCCI-IRC, MA Momen, delivered the welcome address while Dr M Masrur Reaz, chairman and CEO of Policy Exchange Bangladesh (PEB), presented the keynote paper.
Addressing the event as the chief guest, Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan said, “Circular economy is vital for gearing up the economy and industrial productivity in the country.”
The adviser urged all stakeholders to work together to leverage the circular economy for increasing exports and industrial growth.
Sardar M Asaduzzaman, assistant resident representative at UNDP Bangladesh, said UNDP and FBCCI-IRC had been working jointly to bring structural changes in waste management, expand circular models, and promote sustainable business activities in the country.
Chairman of FBCCI-IRC, Md Jashim Uddin, stressed that expanding research on the circular economy is crucial for its growth and long-term impact.
At the event, the Coca-Cola Foundation provided Tk 5.0 million to ten start-up winners to implement environment-friendly innovations, giving each winner Tk 0.5 million.
Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan lauded initiatives by FBCCI-IRC, UNDP, and the Coca-Cola Foundation, and thanked the foundation for providing financial support to new entrepreneurs.
The seminar highlighted the combined efforts of government, private sector, and international organisations in promoting sustainable economic practices through circular economy initiatives.
talhabinhabib@yahoo.com