Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury on Tuesday urged the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to come forward with safeguarding the country's environment, forest and biodiversity.

Speaking at the Deputy Commissioner Conference 2024 held in the capital, he stressed the need for comprehensive cooperation to prevent environmental degradation amid ongoing development activities across the country.

The environment minister also called upon DCs to take decisive action against filling of water bodies and wetlands, halt construction on hillsides and foothills, and remove illegal brick kilns.

He also underscored the importance of ensuring the permanent closure of defunct brick kilns while promoting the use of eco-friendly block bricks in government projects.

About air and plastic pollution, Saber Hossain urged the authorities concerned to take district-specific action plans targeting road construction, brick kilns, waste management, and single-use plastics.

He encouraged innovative approaches to environmental protection and pollution prevention, including the cessation of banned polythene shopping bags and single-use plastics in government offices at grassroots level.

In addition, the minister stressed the necessity of DCs' active involvement in safeguarding forest lands, combating illegal encroachment, and curbing activities such as illegal sawmills and lead-acid battery recycling.

He emphasised the role of DCs in overseeing and supporting the implementation of ongoing climate change projects across districts, ensuring their effective execution.

Environment Secretary Dr Farhina Ahmed, Director General of Environment Department (DoE) Dr Abdul Hamid and Chief Conservator of Forest Md Amir Hosain Chowdhury were present at the conference.