BCDP launched to mobilise climate funds, foster collaboration

The government has launched the Bangladesh Climate Development Partnership (BCDP) to foster collaboration and mobilise climate funds.

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan highlighted the need for enhanced financial and institutional support for the ministry, emphasising that external funding must be sought with integrity to empower the ministry while avoiding duplication of efforts. She also called for concessional loans to ensure the sustainability of climate initiatives, stressing the government’s commitment to prioritising climate action.

Speaking at the “Inception Workshop with Development Partners on Operationalizing the BCDP” hosted by the ministry at the Bangladesh Water Development Board, Pani Bhaban, on Sunday, Rizwana described the BCDP as a crucial platform for mobilising resources, fostering collaboration, and building a resilient, sustainable future.

Supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the BCDP aims to tackle climate challenges through low-carbon, climate-resilient development strategies.

The adviser noted that the government has established mechanisms to efficiently channel funds and prioritise their use effectively. She urged stronger collaboration with civil society, emphasising the need for increased youth and civil society representation in climate initiatives. She also instructed Group 3 to address these gaps urgently.

Rizwana further remarked that the BCDP symbolises a multi-stakeholder approach, uniting the government, private sector, and development partners to scale up and implement climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Through BCDP, she said, the goal is to ensure that every taka invested in climate action delivers meaningful and sustainable impacts for both the people and ecosystems of Bangladesh.

Later, Takeo Konishi, Director General of the ADB’s South Asia Regional Department, met with the Environment and Water Resources Adviser and reaffirmed ADB’s commitment to mobilising concessional and green financing to accelerate Bangladesh’s climate resilience and sustainable development.

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