Environmental activist and advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan has stressed that environmental issues must be placed at the heart of politics. She urged political parties to be held accountable by the public for fulfilling their environmental commitments. “Environmental protection is no longer just a policy issue—it is a moral responsibility,” she said. “We must ensure a healthy, safe, and livable Bangladesh for future generations.” Referring to unregulated stone extraction in Jaflong and the degradation of the Sonadia forest, she criticized the lack of political will to protect nature. “We’ve seen united political efforts to extract resources, but not the same unity when it comes to protecting the environment. Sustainable development is not possible by destroying nature.” Hasan also called for increased investment in the Ministry of Environment, noting that environmental initiatives often remain underfunded despite their critical importance. “Eco-tourism can significantly boost government revenue, but that potential remains largely untapped,” she added.