Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said on Saturday that the leadership of the young generation in wildlife protection has now become undeniable.
She said the growing involvement of youths in rescuing, caring for, and returning wildlife to nature is an encouraging development for Bangladesh, adding that public awareness of wildlife safety and conservation has increased significantly compared to the past.
Rizwana made the remarks during a views-exchange meeting at the Forest Bhaban in Agargaon, Dhaka, with volunteers and organisations working on wildlife, forest and biodiversity conservation.
She said society must uphold ethical values that ensure the coexistence of humans and nature, adding that religious and social teachings promote compassion, protection and responsible behaviour toward all living beings.
Standing beside vulnerable people and vulnerable animals, she said, is the truest expression of humanity.
Addressing the youth, Rizwana stressed that a united voice is essential in safeguarding wildlife. She said those who destroy wildlife habitats often seek public support by invoking economic arguments, and countering them requires strengthened awareness, love for nature and dissemination of accurate information.
The adviser announced that 64 wildlife conservation workers one from each district will be formally recognised next year, an initiative she said would inspire young people and encourage local leadership in wildlife preservation.
Rizwana said the government has approved the formation of a new unit dedicated to addressing wildlife crimes and that steps are underway to ensure modern equipment and transport for wildlife rescue operations.
The meeting was chaired by Chief Conservator of Forests Md Amir Hossain Chowdhury.
Among others present were Director General of the National Institute of Biotechnology Md Sagir Ahmed; biodiversity expert Mohammad Ali Reza Khan; founding Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at Rajshahi University Dr Md Jalal Uddin Sardar; and founder and chief adviser of BBCF Mollah Rezaul Karim.
Several individuals and organisations, including Mohammad Ali Reza Khan, received awards for their contributions to environmental and biodiversity conservation.
