Dhaka: Climate activist Harjeet Singh, Global Convenor of the Fill The Fund campaign and Strategic Advisor to the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, met with leaders of the South Asian Climate Change Journalist Forum (SACCJF) at a city hotel on Wednesday. The discussion centered on Bangladesh’s renewable energy targets and the challenges of making energy transition both realistic and inclusive.
“Energy transition must be rooted in ground realities,” Harjeet Singh said, stressing that renewable energy goals will only succeed if they reflect Bangladesh’s socio-economic conditions and existing infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, technology transfer, and inclusive planning so that vulnerable communities are not left behind. “A realistic approach will accelerate Bangladesh’s shift to sustainable energy while protecting livelihoods,” he added.
Harjeet also cautioned that most climate finance from multilateral development banks (MDBs) comes as loans rather than grants, creating extra burdens for vulnerable countries.
Assaduzzaman Shamrat, Executive President of SACCJF, observed, “Energy transition also requires strong public awareness and accountability. Journalists have a vital role in ensuring people understand what’s possible, what’s not, and how policies affect their daily lives.” He said balancing feasibility with practical planning would help renewable projects achieve lasting success.
Other leaders present included Karamot Ullah Biplob, Secretary General of SACCJF, and Masum Billah, President of the Bangladesh chapter of SACCJF. The meeting also touched on how regional partnerships can strengthen renewable energy adoption and the role of civil society in tracking progress and advocating reforms.
The discussion underscored how Bangladesh’s energy transition, while challenging, must be carefully designed to match local needs. SACCJF leaders reaffirmed their commitment to evidence-based reporting, ensuring that climate and energy debates across South Asia remain focused on both practicality and impact.
Among others, executive committee members of the Bangladesh chapter of SACCJF were present at the event Imran Hossain Sumon, Sajibur Rahman, Sheikh Shahrukh, Minakshi Choudhury and Md. Shafiul Al Imran.
