The revitalization of the Baral River, recently transformed from a moribund stream into a thriving waterbody following the removal of the Charghat sluice gates, stands as a definitive testament to the efficacy of the “Open Approach” to river management. Against this backdrop of tangible progress, the Bangladesh Environment Network (BEN) has formally launched its 2025 Fundraising Campaign, aiming to capitalize on two decades of struggle that are finally yielding significant ecological returns.
The campaign announcement comes on the heels of international recognition for the movement’s ground-level impact. Organizers noted that the persistent partnership between BEN and the Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA) has not only resuscitated the Baral but also earned BAPA the prestigious Mark Angelo Award on World River Day. However, the committee cautioned that despite these victories, the trajectory of environmental degradation in Bangladesh remains steep. In the name of development, reckless deforestation, wetland encroachments, and the toxic dumping of industrial waste continue unabated, driven by powerful vested interests and bureaucratic inertia.
Addressing the current political landscape, the campaign leadership acknowledged a cautious optimism following recent political upheavals in Bangladesh. With an environmentalist now at the helm of the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, there is hope for a shift in governance. Yet, history suggests a persistent gap between policy declaration and implementation. Consequently, BEN leadership argued that the responsibility of protecting the environment cannot be left solely to the government; a robust, well-funded civic movement is essential to bridge this gap, oppose land grabbers, and ensure scientific facts supersede false narratives.
To sustain these critical efforts, BEN has outlined a strategic budget for the upcoming year with a fundraising target of $25,000 USD. The funds are earmarked for specific operational needs: 15 lakh BDT for BAPA’s regular contributions, 4 lakh BDT for enhanced grassroots mobilization, and substantial allocations for the annual BAPA-BEN conference and disaster contingency funds. Thanks to interest from existing capital funds, the net requirement has been kept efficient, yet the need for broad participation remains urgent.
The fundraising drive has already seen a robust response, with contributions currently totaling $23,425. To bridge the remaining gap, the committee is calling for widespread support from the Non-Resident Bangladeshi (NRB) community. Professor Azizur Molla, spearheading the initiative, emphasized that BEN maintains a transparent 501(c)(3) status, ensuring that donations go directly toward empowering BAPA’s activities in Bangladesh.
Supporters are encouraged to participate immediately to maintain the momentum of the past 25 years. Contributions can be made via check payable to “Bangladesh Environment Network” sent to Prof. Azizur Molla at the College of Health Professions in Grand Rapids, MI, or via Zelle or Chase Bank to aziz4rahman@gmail.com (noting the donor’s name and email in the memo). The committee reiterated that whether through financial support or joining the fundraising team, active participation is vital to ensure that the betterment of Bangladesh’s environment in the coming years.
