A lively discussion on Cox’s Bazar tourism and the need for greener energy drew local leaders, experts and community members to a town meeting where speakers laid out practical ideas to protect the coast and grow tourism in a way that helps people and nature. The meeting in Cox’s Bazar town opened with calls to stop using fossil fuels and to ensure hotels and services move to renewable power. Organizers said clean energy will lower costs for businesses, cut pollution, and keep the sea and beaches healthier. The session was chaired by Professor Nurul Amin Sikder Bhutto and moderated by Md. Imran Khan, with Dr. Mohammad Sanaullah as chief discussant and Mufti Abdullah Shaheen as a special guest. Bappi Sardar, the founder and chairman of the Green Movement, urged the development of planned and modern hotels while asking that unplanned motels be guided into proper planning. Speakers stressed the need to improve the municipal drainage system, modernize waste management, and set clear areas for street vendors so sidewalks and paths stay open for visitors and residents. Some participants said refugee settlements had damaged nearby forest areas and called for stronger forest protection, while others focused on preserving coral reefs, stopping hill cutting, and halting sand extraction from rivers to keep land and water safe. The meeting announced a new district committee for the Green Movement, issued identity cards to its members, and gave awards to local environmental helpers who have worked to clean up the area. Organizers said public involvement must come first and that rules should be shaped with help from people who live in the town so changes are fair and useful. Many speakers asked for small steps that can bring fast benefits, such as rooftop solar for hotels, better public toilets and drains, marked vending zones, and regular beach cleanups run by local volunteers. The discussion also focused on training and support for small businesses so they can meet higher standards and welcome more tourists without harming the environment. Plans were shared to work with hoteliers, shop owners, youth groups and municipal staff to test ideas and collect data on what works best on the ground. People at the meeting said they want changes that protect local livelihoods while keeping beaches clean and safe for visitors and families. The event closed with a promise to hold follow-up sessions, offer more training, and share simple plans that communities can use to make steady improvements. Participants left the meeting with a sense of hope that by mixing green energy, better planning and strong local voice, Cox’s Bazar can keep its beaches, culture and jobs while building a tourism sector that lasts for the long term for future generations too.
