Speakers at a seminar on green growth in packaging and plastic industries on Saturday urged the stakeholders to foster dialogue and collaboration on critical aspects of transitioning towards a circular economy, where waste is minimised, and resources are reused and recycled.
The Bangladesh Printing and Packaging Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BPGMEA) and Green Tech Foundation Bangladesh organised the seminar titled "Green Growth: Exploring Investment Avenues in Sustainable Printing, Packaging, and Plastic Industries for the Circular Economy in Bangladesh" at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB), Dhaka, on Friday.
The event brought together industry experts, policymakers, financial institutions, and development organisations to deliberate on the potential for green investments in the plastic, packaging, and printing sectors in Bangladesh.
Be tough on dishonest traders but incentivise the honest: Finance minister asks NBR
Shamim Ahmed, President of BPGMEA, delivered the welcome speech, setting the tone for the insightful discussions that followed.
Mohammad Sayeedur Rahman, management counsellor, at the Bangladesh Institute of Management (BIM), provided a comprehensive keynote, offering insightful perspectives on green growth and the circular economy in Bangladesh.
Michael Klode, Project Manager, GIZ Bangladesh, shared expertise on sustainable plastics and waste management.
Serve people by keeping prices of commodities at tolerable level: Food Minister
Sattya Ranjan Bhattacharjee, NPC, UNIDO, discussed policy frameworks and best practices for sustainable plastic use and marine litter prevention in Bangladesh.
Khondkar Morshed Millat, Former Director Sustainable Finance, Bangladesh Bank, and Advisor of GreenTech Foundation Bangladesh, highlighted financing mechanisms for green projects.
Douwe Dijkstra, Country Director Cordaid, Bangladesh, shed light on the role of NGOs in plastic waste management and the circular economy.
Md. Houmyoun Kabir Khan, Director, Strategic Investment Unit, BIDA, illuminated investment opportunities in the sector.
Special guests included Edwin KOEKKOEK, Team Leader - Green Inclusive Development & Social Protection, Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh, who shared international perspectives.
Bangladesh needs to introduce social insurance for all, not social safety net: CPD
Dr. Lutfor Rahman, Founder & Executive Director of GreenTech Foundation Bangladesh, expertly moderated the discussion with his thought leadership.
This seminar provided a unique opportunity for participants to gain knowledge, network with key stakeholders, and contribute to shaping Bangladesh's future in the printing, packaging, and plastics sector through sustainable development practices. The event reflects a collective commitment to fostering a green and circular economy in the country.