Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said required financing and technological assistance for adaptation are still far from adequate.
“As a deltaic and lower riparian country, Bangladesh is among the most climate-vulnerable nations. Our people are showing resilience and courage in the face of repeated disasters, but our capacity is being stretched due to insufficient mitigation efforts and inadequate international support,” she said.
The Adviser made the remarks while speaking at an event titled “Biophilia: Reconnecting People, Climate, and Culture” hosted by the Embassy of Switzerland on Tuesday as part of its commitment to action against the climate crisis.
Biophilia showcased how community-led initiatives are best placed to address the impact of climate change on left behind communities, said the Embassy.
The day-long festival was also an opportunity to promote the Swiss supported Climate Action at Local Level (CALL) programme.
CALL is in partnership with nine Swiss NGOs- CBM: Christian Blind Mission, Enfants du Monde, GAIN: Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, HEKS/EPER, Helvetas Bangladesh, Solidar Suisse, Swisscontact, Swiss Red Cross and Terre des Hommes – and 18 local organisations.
The event brought together representatives of the government, bilateral and multilateral development partners, policymakers, private sector, local leaders, children, youth, artists, innovators, and citizens to celebrate community-led climate action and the power of culture.
As host of the event, Chargée d’Affaires of the Embassy of Switzerland Corinne Henchoz Pignani stressed that “the answers to the climate crisis lie not only in high-level negotiations, but in the lived realities of people — the farmers, the fisherfolk, the women and youth who are already adapting, already innovating, already leading.”
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Country Director, International Fund for Agricultural Development, Valantine Achancho, also spoke at the event.
The Santal community, Baul artists, and urban performers performed at a climate change event, “Sounds of the Soil.”
The day focused on reconnecting climate, culture, and community through visual storytelling sessions, climate communication, and local climate solutions.
The afternoon showcased innovation and creativity, with initiatives in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, waste management, and early warning systems.
The event also featured a sustainable fashion showcase. In addition to the main stage, Biophilia Beyond the Stage offered immersive experiences, such as nature photography exhibitions and participatory art.
The evening cultural program featured a play on the climate crisis and a musical performance by Joler Gaan.
Shipping Adviser Dr. M. Sakhawat Hussain attended the closing session and oath taking ceremony, “Friends of Climate,” as the chief guest.
Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fouzlul Kabir Khan attended as the chief reciter of the climate oath.
Sakhawat Hussain emphasized Bangladesh’s vulnerability to climate change. He called for the use of alternative fuels and eco-friendly technologies to reduce climate impact. He also stressed the vital role of young people and NGOs in finding local climate solutions.
Fouzlul Kabir Khan, read out the climate oath. In his remarks, the Honorable adviser called for action to prevent climate change and environmental degradation.
Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Bangladesh Michael Miller also attended and spoke at the closing session.
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Senior representatives from development partners and UN agencies were also present. Attendees took an oath of climate commitment and pledged to strengthen local leadership.