Abstract:
This paper explores the intersection of environmental protection and sustainable development in Bangladesh, with a specific focus on the legal framework governing these issues, particularly in light of a recent landmark judgment by the Supreme Court. Environmental protection and sustainable development have become pressing concerns globally, and
Bangladesh is no exception. The country, facing severe environmental challenges like air and
water pollution, deforestation, and climate change impacts, requires a robust legal framework
to address these issues while ensuring long-term development. This paper provides a
comprehensive legal study of the environmental situation in Bangladesh, particularly focusing
on the recent landmark judgment by the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. The paper analyzes the
implications of this ruling, exploring how it advances the cause of sustainable development by
encouraging the integration of environmental considerations into development policies. It also
discusses the role of the judiciary in enforcing environmental rights and ensuring
accountability for environmental harm. the paper critically assesses the challenges in
translating legal provisions into tangible environmental protection outcomes, including
political, administrative, and societal barriers. It argues that while the judicial intervention is
significant, achieving sustainable development in Bangladesh requires comprehensive reforms
that involve coordinated efforts from the government, the private sector, and civil society. The
paper concludes that legal reforms, backed by strong implementation and public participation,
are essential to ensure environmental sustainability and promote sustainable development in
Bangladesh.
