Global Climate Strike: Bangladeshi youths call for just energy transition, ending fossil finance

Youth activists in Bangladesh have once again called for immediately ending the financing of fossil fuel-based power projects, prioritising investments in transition to renewable energy and mobilisation of vital climate finance.

As the world grapples with the devastating impacts of climate change, the young voices rose in unison during a climate strike, spearheaded by Fridays for Future Bangladesh and YouthNet for Climate Justice, in front of the National Press Club in the capital on Friday.

Young activists from 25 districts across the country attended the programme. They dressed in solemn black attires symbolising the dire consequences of the fossil fuel industry. Holding aloft banners and placards, they demonstrated unwavering commitment to reducing global carbon emissions and holding governments accountable for their climate actions.

Sohanur Rahman, executive coordinator of the YouthNet for Climate Justice, said, "We cannot afford to add more fuel to the fire. The era of new fossil fuels is over. Our future depends on leaving them in the ground."

"It is time we say no to new fossil fuels and embrace clean energy alternatives. We need an immediate and fair transition from fossil fuels. The longer we wait, the greater the cost to our planet and our future. Equity must be at the heart of our fossil fuel phase-out. We cannot leave communities behind in this critical shift."

Shakila Islam, national coordinator of the YouthNet for Climate Justice, said, "We will not be fooled by greenwashing any longer. Real solutions mean real action, not empty promises. The time for genuine climate solutions is now.

"We will not accept half-measures or false claims. Corporate interests should not dictate climate policy. It is time to put people and the planet first. We will not allow the fossil fuel industry to hijack our future. Their influence must end for real climate action to thrive."

Professor Saleemul Huq, an eminent climate expert and adviser to the COP28 Presidency, said, "The climate crisis is a clear and present danger. The world's wealthy bear responsibility for climate problems, while the poor endure the brunt.

"Governments must globally pressure polluters. Fighting climate injustice is a collective endeavour, demanding the effort of every individual. We must swiftly transition to equitable and sustainable renewable energy sources, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels."

He also said, "The youth have fearlessly embraced this challenge. I proudly stand with them in their unwavering quest for a better future. It is time to translate words into meaningful actions in the battle against climate change, securing a just and habitable world for generations to come."

Prof Ahmad Kamruzzaman Majumder, chairman of the Center for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS), said, "Defend our right to clean air, end the tyranny of toxic fossil fuels. It is time to phase them out and embrace renewable energy for a secure, clean and equitable future. Expanding renewables is not an option; it is our path to better air quality and energy resilience."