Protecting nature key to sustainable tourism: Rizwana

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said that safeguarding country’s natural environment is crucial for building a sustainable and attractive tourism sector.

She made made these remarks during an event marking World Tourism Day 2025 in Dhaka.

“If we can protect nature, Bangladesh will become an even more attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists,” she told reporters after inaugurating a series of events including a rally, cycling event, city tour and food festival held at Agargaon in the capital.

The celebration was organized by Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism under this year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”

Rizwana, who also serves as Adviser to Ministry of Water Resources, emphasized the need for planned urbanization, a clean environment, safe waste management and the preservation of cultural heritage to support the growth of tourism in Bangladesh.

She highlighted that the government has already launched several initiatives aimed at encouraging the younger generation to participate in eco-tourism, cycling and heritage-focused travel.

“The natural beauty of our country; from tea gardens of Sylhet and beaches of Cox’s Bazar to the Sundarbans mangroves and waterfalls of the hill tracts, are priceless treasures,” Rizwana said. “Protecting these is the only path to ensuring sustainable tourism.”

She also urged citizens to practice responsible tourism to minimize the environmental footprint of travel and to preserve these resources for future generations.

Among others present at the event were Civil Aviation and Tourism Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin, Tourism Secretary Nasreen Jahan and Bangladesh Tourism Corporation Chairperson Syema Shaheen Sultana.