The Department of Environmental Science at the International University of Business Agriculture and Technology (IUBAT) organised a national seminar titled “Enhancing global sustainability and sustainable future” on 10 December 2025.

The seminar brought together faculty members, environmental experts, policymakers and students to discuss pathways towards building a resilient and climate-smart future.

The programme began with the national anthem, followed by a minute’s silence in memory of IUBAT Founder Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr M Alimullah Miyan and former Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Mahmuda Khanum.

Prof Dr Md Ataur Rahman, Chair of the Department of Environmental Science, delivered the welcome address and keynote speech, stressing the need to reform consumption patterns and human behaviour to achieve long-term resource sustainability.

In her remarks, Prof Selina Nargis, Treasurer and Director of Administration of IUBAT, highlighted the close link between environmental protection and sustainable development, calling for collective action by individuals, industries and governments.

Faculty members Dr Md Shafiqul Islam, Dr M Rehan Dastagir and Dr Ferdous Ahmed presented research findings on the role of urban greenery in reducing air and noise pollution in Dhaka. Dr Sohag Miah, Assistant Professor at the University of Chittagong, shared examples of campus initiatives focused on conserving native tree species and engaging students in long-term plantation programmes.

Bidhan Chandra Pal, Founder and Managing Director of Probha Aurora, discussed Bangladesh’s role in the UNESCO Greening Education Partnership and encouraged participants to focus on scalable innovations rather than relying solely on climate compensation mechanisms.

Guest of honour Masud Iqbal Md Shameem, Director of the Department of Environment, spoke on national environmental policy priorities and regulatory measures required for sustainability.

Dr Susan Vize, Head of Office and UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh, highlighted key outcomes of COP30 held in Belém, Brazil, emphasising implementation, accountability and youth engagement in shaping the next global sustainability framework.

In his presidential address, IUBAT Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Abdur Rab urged individuals and institutions to adopt practical everyday measures for resource conservation, saying global commitments only become effective when translated into local action.

The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Mariym Sultana Marry, Assistant Professor of the Department of Environmental Science, followed by the presentation of tokens of appreciation and a group photograph.

The event reaffirmed IUBAT’s commitment to sustainability education through its compulsory environmental science course, annual sustainability day and community-based initiatives aimed at contributing to national and global sustainability goals.