WaterAid at Regional Climate Conference 2023

The Regional Climate Summit 2023 aims to bring together policymakers, scientists, experts, and stakeholders to address climate change and sustainable development in South Asia. Its objectives include promoting renewable energy, reducing plastic waste, discussing waste and water management strategies, and tackling air pollution. The expected outcomes include identifying challenges and opportunities for renewable energy adoption, developing policies for waste and water management, reducing air pollution, and fostering partnerships for sustainable development. The summit features prominent speakers and encompasses multiple thematic segments and sessions with over 450 participants.

The Regional Climate Conference 2023 saw an engaging and insightful session, titled "Sustainable Water and Waste Management and Strengthening Local Governance for Attaining Climate-Resilient Development" hosted by WaterAid and the Embassy of Switzerland on 8 September 2023. This session was dedicated to addressing the pressing challenges of sustainable water and waste management in the context of climate resilience.

The session commenced with Mr Tanvir Shakil Joy, MP; Chairperson of the Climate Parliament Bangladesh, delivering the opening remarks. His presence and words set the stage for an engaging and productive discussion.

Mr Zaheed Farooque, Honb’le Secretary of the Water Resource Ministry, delivered a keynote address that resonated with urgency and purpose. His keynote address at the session highlighted the broader significance of its theme, extending beyond environmental concerns to become a call for safeguarding not just Bangladesh but the entirety of South Asia and the world. He concluded with a call to action, underlining the pivotal role of local governance and outlining key steps, expressing optimism that concerted efforts could overcome these challenges with unwavering commitment.

The session then transitioned into a two rounds of panel discussion, where distinguished speakers provided insights and responses to questions related to their respective countries and organsations.

Ms Agatha Sangma, MP; Member, Climate Parliament, India, discussed the shift from a linear to a circular economy in India, focusing on the ‘Swach Bharat Abhiyan.’ She also highlighted India's collaboration with national actors in transitioning from a linear to a circular economy.

Mr Madhav Sapkota, MP; Member, Climate Parliament, Nepal highlighted Nepal's efforts in waste management and sustainable water use, emphasising the contribution of hydropower to Nepal's energy sector. He provided further insights into Nepal's waste management and sustainable water use initiatives.

Ms Corinne Henchoz Pignani, Charge's de Affairs, Embassy of Switzerland stressed the importance of engaging at the local level, empowering local government institutions, and involving the private sector. She discussed how the Swiss Government is supporting collaboration between the Bangladesh Government and local actors to implement good practices.

Ms Hasin Jahan, Country Director, WaterAid, discussed WaterAid's aspirations for building climate resilience in Bangladesh. She elaborated on how WaterAid is working with the government to solve the crisis.

Before delving into the Q&A session with the audience, Dr Qazi Kholiquzzaman Ahmad, Chairman of Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF), shared some insights. He emphasized user participation in water management and regional cooperation in managing water resources.

The audience engaged with thought-provoking questions, and the panel responded by acknowledging the existence of public-private partnership (PPP) models for environmental solutions. They stressed the importance of transitioning to a circular economy to reduce waste and reiterated the significance of sustainable water management.

In closing, Mr Md Tazul Islam, MP, Honb’le Minister of the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, provided comprehensive responses to the audience's questions. He highlighted Bangladesh's progress and challenges in waste and water management, emphasizing the importance of empowering local governments and engaging communities.

Mr Adnan Ibne Abdul Qader and Mr Md Zarif Oeishik from WaterAid acted as the session coordinator.

The session on "Sustainable Water and Waste Management and Strengthening Local Governance for Attaining Climate Resilient Development" at the Regional Climate Conference 2023 was a significant forum for discussions, sharing best practices, and highlighting the critical role of local governance in addressing water and waste challenges in the context of climate change.