Bangladesh needs to strategically combine artificial intelligence (AI), circular economy strategies, and sustainability objectives to stay competitive in a shifting global environment, experts emphasized recently. They cautioned that technology alone is insufficient for ensuring sustainability without robust institutions, research-driven reforms, and effective execution.
AK Enamul Haque, the Director General of the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS), stressed the importance of utilizing local data and research effectively rather than blindly adopting foreign models and regulations. Speaking at a seminar titled “Integrating Artificial Intelligence, Circular Economy and Sustainability” organized by the Bangladesh Chamber of Industries in Dhaka, Haque highlighted the need for context-specific, evidence-based policymaking.
Haque noted that Bangladesh possesses significant data on waste management but struggles with its integration into policy decisions. He pointed out that simply enacting laws is not the solution, as evidenced by the ineffective traffic systems in Dhaka. Haque proposed behavioral solutions, such as redesigning buses with platform-level doors to mitigate unsafe roadside stops.
Regarding AI, Haque urged a cautious approach, highlighting the financial challenges and energy consumption associated with many AI companies. He emphasized that AI should complement human values and consciousness and be strategically applied for efficiency gains.
Md Moniruzzaman, a professor at the Bangladesh Institute of Governance and Management, underscored the urgency of harmonizing economic growth with sustainability for a resilient future. He emphasized the necessity of aligning policy and practice with circular economy principles to balance environmental, social, and business interests.
Nawshad Mustafa, Director of the SME and Special Programs Department at Bangladesh Bank, discussed how a combination of regulatory pressure and financial incentives is driving sustainable practices in the industry. Mustafa emphasized the need for enforcement and financial motivations to encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices.
SM Zulfiqur Ali, Research Director at BIDS, highlighted significant mismatches in Bangladesh’s labor market based on recent tracer studies. He pointed out that a substantial percentage of National University graduates are either unemployed or working in fields unrelated to their academic qualifications, reflecting both vertical and horizontal mismatches.
Mohammad Shahab Uddin, Director of the Office for International Affairs at the University of Chittagong, emphasized the transformative potential of integrating AI with circular economy principles. He discussed how AI can optimize material flows, enhance recycling systems, and support product life cycle management, especially in sectors like e-waste.
Shahab Uddin stressed the importance of governance, digital infrastructure, and skilled human resources for successfully integrating AI into sustainability frameworks. He highlighted Bangladesh’s leadership in green garment factories and LEED certification, positioning the country well to leverage advanced circular technology for improved resource efficiency and waste reduction.
