In a bid to combat air pollution and actively involve citizens in environmental protection, the Bangladeshi government has launched a novel initiative. The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change has announced that anyone who captures photographic evidence of waste being burned in public and submits it to the authorities could receive a reward. The ministry confirmed the programme in a press release issued to the media today.
Bangladesh consistently ranks among the countries most affected by air pollution globally, with concentrations rising sharply during the dry winter months. Recognising that open waste burning significantly contributes to deteriorating air quality, the ministry hopes that citizen reporting will enable timely governmental intervention.
According to the press release, individuals are requested to email images to climatechange2@moef.gov.bd. Submissions must include the sender’s name, phone number, location of the incident, area address, and the time of occurrence. Each month, submitted photographs will be verified and assessed, with the top ten entries receiving awards.
Officials have expressed optimism that the programme will encourage public participation, which is expected to aid in controlling and reducing air pollution levels across urban and rural areas.
Recent studies highlight the urgency of such initiatives. The World Bank’s November 2024 report, “Clearing the Air: Addressing Bangladesh’s Air Pollution Crisis”, found that open burning of waste contributes 11% to Dhaka’s overall air pollution. Similarly, the 2025 Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) update notes that air pollution poses the single largest external threat to life expectancy in Bangladesh, shortening the average lifespan by approximately 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 |
Health experts warn that children are disproportionately affected by pollution-related illnesses. Hospital admissions for respiratory conditions have steadily increased over recent years, with rising cases of pneumonia, bronchitis, and asthma. There is also an alarming increase in tuberculosis prevalence among vulnerable populations.
The ministry emphasises that citizen participation in reporting waste burning is a crucial step towards tackling air pollution. By combining public vigilance with official intervention, the government hopes to not only curb environmental hazards but also raise awareness about responsible waste management and public health protection.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to engage communities in sustainable practices and to transform environmental responsibility into an actionable civic duty. Citizens are encouraged to participate actively, helping ensure cleaner air for present and future generations.