People's Republic of Bangladesh ( Bangladesh )

The Situation of Environmental Education in Bangladesh
   History: -Bangladesh is one of the rich biodiversity areas in the world. People live in harmony with nature and have traditional knowledge for environmental conservation. Since 1960, however, the situation of Bangladesh environment has changed because of the over use of chemical fertilizer and pesticides.  Lack of sustainable natural resource management plan and the problem of over population have created huge pressure on natural habitat. In this situation, environmental education is indispensable for the survival of Bangladesh peoples. Yet, it is very difficult to provide environmental education because of educational materials and allocation of budget.
   Government initiatives: - Formal environmental education is being providing by the government. The curriculum has been developed and included in the school syllabus up to secondary level. Government has also environmental awareness programs on different medias. 
   NGOs: - The NGOs are the key players in environmental education. They developed EE materials like books and booklets, video programs, and etc. They are providing EE education through their non-formal; post literacy, continuing education and development education programs.
   Private Sector: - Private sectors are not much involved in EE but they are contributing a little in environmental protection.

 By Dr. M.A.Hakim
 Country Coordinator, Bangladesh Eco-Village Network (BEN)