The conversation around climate action is evolving fast, shifting from being seen as a financial burden to a major business opportunity. This was the key message shared by experts at the Bangladesh Climate Action Forum 2024, hosted by the Bangladesh Apparel Exchange (BAE) at Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden.
“Climate should not just be a regulatory checkbox; it must be an essential part of corporate strategy,” said M. Fouzul Kabir Khan, adviser to the Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources. He stressed the urgent need to prepare for climate risks, such as floods, by investing in adaptive infrastructure. At the same time, he highlighted that addressing these risks can unlock global investment opportunities and keep businesses competitive.
Khan also called attention to Bangladesh’s low adoption of renewable energy—currently at just 2%. He urged businesses to innovate and modernize, seizing the moment to adopt greener solutions amid ongoing reforms by the interim government.
Meanwhile, Lutfey Siddiqui, special envoy for international affairs, broadened the discussion by saying, “Sustainability today is about more than cost—it’s about how we achieve our outcomes.” He emphasized that climate transition is no longer a choice but a strategic necessity for long-term success.
EU Ambassador Michael Miller stressed the need for proactive action, given Bangladesh’s vulnerability to climate change. He introduced the EU’s Global Gateway initiative, which aims to mobilize €300 billion in investments by 2027 through grants and concessional loans.
German Ambassador Achim Tröster and Thijs Woudstra from the Netherlands Embassy also emphasized the importance of energy security and sustainable practices. Woudstra praised Bangladesh’s apparel sector for its progress toward decarbonization and expressed optimism about future collaborations.
BAE’s founder and CEO, Mostafiz Uddin, concluded the event with a powerful message: “Climate action is no longer just about survival—it’s an opportunity for businesses to thrive and lead.”
With over 300 engineers from the apparel sector present, the forum provided valuable insights into sustainability and decarbonization, offering businesses a roadmap to grow while embracing environmental responsibility.
