Renewable Energy Now: Youth and Community Call for Clean Energy and Sundarbans Protection

A public gathering titled “Renewable Energy Now” was held at Narikeltala Field in Mongla, Bagerhat, to advocate for the rapid expansion of renewable energy in coastal regions, stronger energy security, and the conservation of the Sundarbans and its rich biodiversity. Asaduzzaman Tohin, President of OAB Foundation, attended the event as a special guest. Nazrul Islam Manju, Administrator of Khulna City Corporation, attended as the Chief Guest. The gathering was chaired by Sharif Jamil, Member Secretary of the Central Committee of Dhora (DHORA) and Coordinator of Waterkeepers Bangladesh. Md. Nur Alam Sheikh, Coordinator of Sundarbans Protection Network and Pashur River Waterkeeper, moderated the event. In his address, the Chief Guest highlighted the government's reported targets for solar power generation and renewable energy expansion, including a target of generating 10,000 megawatts of solar electricity over the next five years. He also discussed plans to generate 20% of total energy from renewable sources by 2030 and 30% by 2040. The discussion emphasised reducing dependence on imported energy, saving foreign currency, and strengthening national energy security through renewable energy development. The gathering also highlighted the importance of protecting the Sundarbans and promoting environmentally responsible energy systems. Speakers expressed concerns about the Rampal coal-fired power plant and the proposed LNG terminal and pipeline project at Akram Point. They called for science-based, inclusive, and people-centred approaches that protect the coastal environment while supporting a fair and sustainable energy transition. Participants stressed that coastal energy planning must give equal consideration to the livelihoods of fishing communities, fish breeding grounds, and the biodiversity of the Sundarbans. Renewable energy expansion should be guided by scientific evidence, environmental safeguards, public participation, and the protection of local communities' interests. Other special guests included Professor and researcher Mir Mohammad Ali of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Abdul Mannan Howlader, President of Mongla Upazila BNP, Mahbubur Rahman Manik, General Secretary of Mongla Municipal BNP and labour leader, and farmer leader Badrul Alam, alongside representatives of various organisations. Following the gathering, cultural performances—including a tiger-themed folk performance, puppet theatre, Baul music, and Gazi songs—helped communicate messages about environmental protection and the importance of renewable energy to the wider community. OAB Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to Dhora (DHORA), Waterkeepers Bangladesh, and Pashur River Waterkeeper for organising the gathering and advancing dialogue on renewable energy, coastal protection, and environmental sustainability. Through its engagement in renewable energy advocacy and environmental initiatives, OAB Foundation remains committed to supporting a fair energy transition that protects ecosystems, strengthens energy security, and places communities at the centre of sustainable development.