SHAPING ENVIRONMENTAL FUTURES

Share on facebook
Facebook
Share on twitter
Twitter
Share on pinterest
Pinterest
Share on linkedin
LinkedIn

Md. Hafizur Rahman is the Head of the Department of Environmental Science and Management at IUB, with a PhD in Natural Product Chemistry from the University of Goettingen. His research focuses on climate change, ecotoxicology, and water quality. Mr. Rahman leads major projects, including the CAP RES climate resilience initiative funded by SIDA and a USAID project on energy transition. With over 13 years at IUB, he is also a key collaborator with ICCCAD and an active researcher in environmental science.


 

What are your primary goals as Head of the Department of Environmental Science and Management at IUB?

Maintaining academic excellence is my top priority, and my vision is to develop future leaders who can tackle tomorrow’s environmental challenges. As the first university in Bangladesh to offer environmental education, Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) stands at the forefront of this critical field. While we take pride in our highly qualified faculty and advanced laboratories, I recognise the need to strengthen our industrial collaborations. I am committed to increasing partnerships with industry and organisations to provide more exposure and opportunities for our faculty and students.

To achieve this, I am emphasising research collaboration, action research, and community engagement. Currently, I focus on equipping students with essential green skills for the future workforce. Our two professional MSc programs, Environmental Management, and Climate Change and Development (CCD), are growing, and their success will enable us to conduct more practical research that addresses real-world environmental challenges.

 

Md. Hafizur Rahman
Head of the Department of Environmental Science and Management
Independent University, Bangladesh
Photograph by Shihab Mohammad

 

How can environmental science research be translated into actionable policies and practices at the local and national levels?

Translating environmental science research into actionable policies involves several key steps. Firstly, research findings should be communicated clearly and accessible to policymakers and the public. Ongoing dialogue with policymakers ensures alignment with policy needs, while interdisciplinary collaboration across sectors, including public-private partnerships, fosters effective solutions. It is important to create evidence-based, flexible policies that are influenced by research and customised to local circumstances. While public involvement and education spur grassroots support and behavioural change, ongoing monitoring and feedback systems are crucial for policy improvement. Moreover, economic incentives, such as subsidies or carbon pricing, can encourage sustainable practices, and enforceable legal frameworks ensure effective implementation. Finally, international collaboration is crucial for addressing global environmental challenges. These steps together bridge the gap between science and practical, impactful policy.

 

What do you see as the biggest challenges in environmental science and management over the next decade, and how can we address them effectively?

Over the next decade, key environmental challenges will include climate change and extreme weather, biodiversity loss, pollution, resource depletion, and environmental justice. Mitigating climate change requires a shift to renewable energy and enhanced adaptation strategies. Addressing biodiversity loss involves protecting ecosystems and strengthening global agreements. Pollution, particularly plastics, can be tackled through stricter regulations, better waste management, and circular economy models. Sustainable resource management will be vital to reducing overexploitation, while environmental justice calls for prioritising marginalised communities. Bridging the gap between science, policy, and public action is crucial for effective solutions, alongside promoting innovation in green technologies. A coordinated global effort involving science, policy, and public engagement is essential for creating a sustainable and resilient future.

 


Over the next decade, key environmental challenges will include climate change and extreme weather, biodiversity loss, pollution, resource depletion, and environmental justice.


 

What role do businesses and industries play in promoting sustainability, and how can they minimise their environmental impact?

Businesses and industries play a pivotal role in promoting sustainability and minimising environmental impact. They can reduce their carbon footprint by adopting renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency in production and operations. Sustainable sourcing, circular economy practices, and responsible procurement help reduce resource exploitation and waste. Waste management strategies, such as waste-to-energy and packaging innovations, further reduce environmental harm. Optimising supply chains and adopting sustainable transportation options, like electric vehicles, can lower emissions. Transparent reporting, sustainability certifications, and collaborations with NGOs and governments help ensure accountability and promote broader sustainability policies. Employee engagement through training and incentivising green practices fosters a culture of sustainability. By incorporating these practices, businesses not only reduce environmental harm but also enjoy cost savings, improved reputation, and compliance with regulations, all while contributing to a healthier planet.

Share:

Share on facebook
Facebook
Share on twitter
Twitter
Share on pinterest
Pinterest
Share on linkedin
LinkedIn
On Key

Related Posts

THE TELEPHOTO REVOLUTION

From professional-grade telephoto lenses to advanced AI features, the vivo X200 redefines mobile photography in collaboration with ZEISS.   In the realm of flagship smartphones,

THE POWER OF INNOVATION

Duke, CEO of vivo Bangladesh, highlights how the company’s leading technological innovations and committed CSR initiatives are empowering individuals digitally and enriching lives.   As

TECH STARS

Since 2007, Star Tech Ltd. has been a trusted name in Bangladesh, renowned for exceptional customer service and a user-friendly online shopping experience. Managing Director

ORGANIC GROWTH FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

Md. Faruk Khan, Co-founder and CEO of Khan IT, adjunct faculty at United International University & National University, and SEO instructor at 10 Minute School

THE GREEN BLUEPRINT

Dr. Mohammad Sujauddin, an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Environmental Science and Management at North South University and an expert in Industrial

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.