Now is the time to make sure efforts to reduce methane emissions are woven into our national policy in a meaningful way. Reducing methane emissions should continue to be good for the environment, but also good for our economy and public health. Technology can further develop in the agricultural sector, solid waste practices can be improved, and industry-wide limits can be established to curb emissions.
I’m making the point that a huge burden will rest on the government’s shoulders, but it won’t get very far without public awareness, pressure and participation. If we start making more people aware of the destructive impact of methane, we will naturally start a movement of people fighting for the necessary changes. Whether through advocating more sustainable practices in the agriculture industry or reducing food waste in our communities, we all play roles in fixing the problems we, and our parents, have created. Governments, businesses, and regular individuals must join forces to face and convert this crisis into a catalyst for progress.
We really need to start paying attention to the threat posed by methane in Bangladesh and start taking concrete steps to manage it. A smart, proactive climate strategy will prioritise reducing human-driven methane emissions as part of a broader set of solutions to build a resilient future – one that is good for the economy, good for health, and good for the environment. The silent menace of methane can be countered and Bangladesh can build a better future – one that is more equitable and sustainable for everyone.
* Shahriar Hossain is an environmental scientist, journalist, and Social Justice advocate, involved in Climate and plastic treaty negotiations. Contact: [email protected]