In a significant move to combat air pollution and actively engage citizens, the Bangladeshi government has unveiled a new initiative. The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change has announced that anyone who captures photographic evidence of waste being burned in public spaces and submits it to the ministry could be eligible for a reward. The programme was confirmed in a press release circulated to the media earlier today.
Bangladesh is frequently cited among the countries most affected by air pollution, with concentrations worsening during the dry winter months. Recognising that open burning of waste is a major contributor to atmospheric pollution, the ministry hopes that citizen reporting will allow prompt government action to curb such practices.
According to the press release, citizens are encouraged to email their photographs to climatechange2@moef.gov.bd. Submissions must include the sender’s name, mobile number, exact location, address of the area, and the time of the incident. Each month, submitted photographs will undergo verification, and the top ten entries will receive awards in recognition of their contribution.
Officials emphasise that the initiative is intended not only to identify and curb pollution but also to foster a sense of civic responsibility and environmental awareness among the general public.
Recent reports underline the urgency of such measures. The World Bank’s November 2024 report, “Clearing the Air: Addressing Bangladesh’s Air Pollution Crisis”, found that open waste burning contributes approximately 11% to Dhaka’s overall air pollution. Similarly, the 2025 Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) update highlights that air pollution is the largest external threat to life expectancy in Bangladesh, shortening the average lifespan by roughly 5.5 years.
| Indicator | Data / Impact |
| Increase in PM2.5 concentration (1998–2023) | 66.2% rise |
| Reduction in life expectancy due to pollution | 2.4 years |
| Potential life expectancy gain if PM2.5 reduced | 6.2 years |
| Contribution of open waste burning in Dhaka | 11% |
| Most polluted regions | Dhaka and Chittagong |
| Health impact on children | Increased cases of pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma, TB |
Medical experts warn that children are disproportionately affected by air pollution-related illnesses. Hospital admissions for respiratory conditions, particularly pneumonia, bronchitis, and asthma, have increased over the past few years, alongside a rise in tuberculosis incidence.
The ministry stresses that active citizen involvement is crucial to controlling air pollution. By combining public vigilance with official intervention, the government aims to reduce environmental hazards, promote responsible waste management, and protect public health.
This initiative represents a broader strategy to integrate technology, community engagement, and environmental stewardship, transforming citizenship into a proactive force for cleaner air. Authorities encourage all residents to participate, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable environment for future generations.
