"On 24 June 2025, a symbolic protest gathering and awareness program were held at Shyamoli Park Ground in Mohammadpur, Dhaka, demanding an end to Japanese private investment in coal and LNG projects in Bangladesh. The event was organized in response to ongoing investments by Japanese financial institutions and energy companies in fossil fuel-based energy projects across Bangladesh and other Asian countries.
The gathering called upon Japanese banks and corporations to stop financing coal and gas projects and instead support Bangladesh’s transition to renewable and sustainable energy systems.
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The protest highlighted concerns regarding the involvement of Japanese institutions such as MIZUHO, MUFG, SMBC, and JERA in financing coal-fired power plants and LNG infrastructure projects. Participants argued that continued investment in fossil fuels threatens Bangladesh’s environmental sustainability, public health, climate resilience, and long-term energy security.
Sharif Jamil, Member Secretary of Dhoritry Rokhhay Amra (DHORA), presented the objectives of the gathering and emphasized that fossil fuel investments are causing environmental degradation and undermining Bangladesh’s renewable energy potential. He urged Japan to withdraw from coal and gas projects and support clean energy initiatives that align with sustainable development goals.
Professor Kamruzzaman Majumder, Chairman of the Center for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS), stressed the importance of energy security while warning against dependence on imported fossil fuels. He highlighted the economic and environmental vulnerabilities associated with coal and gas investments, particularly in the context of global crises and climate change.
Representatives from environmental organizations, farmers’ associations, academic institutions, and youth movements shared concerns about the impacts of fossil fuel projects on local communities, coastal ecosystems, agriculture, fisheries, and public health. Speakers called for greater investment in renewable energy technologies, including solar and wind power, to ensure a cleaner and more resilient future.
The event also featured a creative awareness segment by Mission Green Volunteers, who performed a flash mob storytelling presentation illustrating the environmental and social impacts of coal and gas projects and showcasing the benefits of renewable energy solutions. The program concluded with an educational puppet show performed by Mission Green Bangladesh.
Key Messages
Japanese financial institutions should stop investing in coal and LNG projects in Bangladesh.
Renewable energy offers a sustainable and environmentally responsible pathway for energy security.
Fossil fuel projects threaten public health, biodiversity, agriculture, fisheries, and coastal livelihoods.
Bangladesh should prioritize clean energy development and climate-resilient infrastructure.
International partnerships should support sustainable development rather than fossil fuel expansion.
Objectives
Raise public awareness about the environmental and social impacts of fossil fuel investments.
Advocate for a just and equitable energy transition in Bangladesh.
Encourage international investors to redirect financing toward renewable energy projects.
Strengthen youth and civil society engagement in climate and energy policy discussions.
Promote sustainable development and climate justice.
Outcomes
Increased public awareness regarding the risks associated with coal and LNG investments.
Strengthened collaboration among environmental and youth organizations.
Greater visibility of renewable energy advocacy efforts.
Enhanced public engagement on climate justice and sustainable energy policies.
Renewed calls for international financial institutions to support clean energy solutions.
Organizers
The protest gathering was jointly organized by Bangladesh Youth Climate Coalition, Bangladesh Krishak Federation, Center for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS), Center for Participatory Research and Development (CPRD), EquityBD, Environmental Research and Development Alternative (ERDA), Global Law Thinkers Society (GLTS), Brighters, Mission Green Bangladesh, Organization for Climate Resilience and Environment Conservation (OCREC), Khasia Students Union (KSU), Sacheton Foundation, Sundarbans O Upakul Surokkha Andolon, Young Climate Action Network (YOUCAN), 350.org, River Bangla, Gorjon, OAB Foundation, Climate Frontier, Youth Environment and Development Organization, Waterkeepers Bangladesh, and other partner organizations under the banner of Dhoritry Rokhhay Amra (DHORA).
