The Bangladesh Environment Network (BEN), one of the leading organizations of Bangladeshi expatriates dedicated to environmental protection in Bangladesh and around the world, will celebrate its 28th anniversary with a day-long program on Saturday, July 18, in New York. The event aims to promote environmental awareness, encourage public
engagement, and inspire the younger generation to become actively involved in environmental advocacy.
According to the organizers, the anniversary celebration will take place from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Jewish Center in Jackson Heights. Theprogram will be open to the public.
Founded in 1998, the Bangladesh Environment Network has worked for nearly three decades to advance environmental conservation, river protection, climate change mitigation, pollution control, and sustainable development in Bangladesh. Working closely with the Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA), BEN has played a significant role in research, public awareness campaigns, and policy advocacy on a wide range of environmental issues.
One of the highlights of the anniversary celebration will be a special lifetime achievement recognition for Dr. Nazrul Islam, the founder of BEN and one of Bangladesh’s pioneering environmental activists. Organizers said the honor is intended to recognize his decades of
dedication and leadership in advancing environmental protection.
The event will feature panel discussions on environmental issues, experience-sharing sessions, award presentations, cultural performances, and a variety of activities for participants of all ages.
Students from schools, colleges, and universities will also have the opportunity to participate in an environmental-themed Reel competition, painting competition, and other awareness-building activities. Selected reels will be screened during the program, and winners will receive awards. According to the organizers, the initiative is designed to engage young people by using digital platforms to spread environmental awareness.
Organizers emphasized that environmental protection is not the responsibility of any single country but a global concern affecting the future of humanity. They have invited members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, environmental advocates, students, researchers, and all
community members to attend and support the initiative.
For additional information, interested participants may contact Dr. Md. Khalequzzaman, Global Coordinator of BEN; Rana Ferdous Chowdhury, Convener of the 28th Anniversary Celebration; or Ifzal Chowdhury, Member Secretary of the anniversary organizing committee.
At a time when the world is facing growing challenges from climate change, river encroachment, air and water pollution, deforestation, and biodiversity loss, organizers say the 28th anniversary is more than a milestone celebration. It is an opportunity to renew the collectivecommitment to protecting the environment for future generations.
They believe that expanding the environmental movement will require the active participation of young people, researchers, civil society, and the Bangladeshi diaspora working together toward a more sustainable future.
The anniversary program is being organized jointly by BEN’s New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut Chapters.
