The delay in forming the National Designated Authorities (NDA), which would entitle Bangladesh to at least $1bn a year as compensation from developed countries under the Green Climate Fund, is particularly irresponsible, considering Bangladesh is among the countries that are most susceptible to the effects of climate change.
Developed countries are expected to donate $200bn to the fund by 2020. Any portion of that amount would be considerable support in preparing for the inevitable catastrophic consequences of global warming, so long as we are able to meet the required conditions including setting up the NDA.
The Finance and Environment ministries are reportedly in a conflict over the matter, slowing things down further. Our bureaucrats must put their differences aside for the sake of the nation and work jointly towards a shared goal so that things can progress faster.
Rising sea levels, coupled with the growing population, can have undesirable effects on our food security and leave millions of citizens starved and homeless. In order to protect ourselves from impending hazards, Bangladesh needs to make solid investments in long-term adaptation.
This cannot be achieved depending on domestic resources alone. Our government has allowed lucrative opportunities to pass by in the past, but we cannot afford to lose this chance. We urge the authorities to get it together and waste no more time in forming the NDA.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
