The Bangladesh Environment Network (BEN) began its journey in 1998 with a humble vision—to unite non-resident Bangladeshis and their friends around the world in the noble cause of protecting the environment of Bangladesh and the global environment we all share. In 1999 it took the initiative to hold the first International Conference on Bangladesh Environment (ICBEN) with a view to unite the pro-environment forces of Bangladesh. One of the outcomes of ICBEN was the formation of Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA) in 2000 as a common platform for pro-environment organizations and individuals of Bangladesh. Since then BAPA and BEN, together with other pro-environment forces, have been working tirelessly for the protection of Bangladesh environment. As a result of this effort, success has been achieved along several dimensions.  

BEN Webinar #17: Crisis of the Teesta River:  Which Way Forward? :: Oct 25, 2025, Saturday, 9 PM  Dhaka Time :: Watch Live on YouTube

Join  BEN Webinar on Zoom

Seminar on the future direction of water development in Bangladesh held on February 1, 2024, at the BWDB headquarters (Pani Bhaban) in Dhaka, Bangladesh with a keynote by Dr. Nazrul Islam, founder, BEN

  Watch seminar on YouTube

The overall condition of Bangladesh environment still remains grave, and much more remains to be done in order for the degradation to stop and the damage that has already occurred to be repaired. BEN calls upon all non-resident Bangladeshis and their international friends to join this effort.

Using the technical expertise that exists among non-resident Bangladeshis, BEN has set up panels to study and suggest policy recommendations regarding all major environmental issues faced by Bangladesh. BEN channels technical expertise and financial contribution of non-resident Bangladeshis to support the activities of BAPA and other pro-environment forces in Bangladesh. However, BEN does not consider itself as a donor organization. Instead it views itself as part of a common struggle whose participants pool their resources for achieving success.

BEN is a self-reliant organization and does not rely on any outside organization for financing. It relies solely on the resources of its members. BEN thus promotes the spirit and philosophy of self-reliant public and social service.