Staff Reporter: ‘Biophilia: Reconnecting People, Climate, and Culture,’ a unique event organized by the Embassy of Switzerland as part of its ‘Climate Action at Local Level’ (CALL) program, was held today at a renowned convention center in Dhaka. GenLab, a youth-led think-and-do tank, planned and executed this day-long festival as the climate communications partner. The vibrant festival brought together diplomats, policymakers, local leaders, artists, innovators, and citizens to celebrate the unified power of community-led climate action and culture.
The chief guest for the inauguration was Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Honorable Adviser to the Interim Government’s Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. Valentine Achancho, Country Director and Representative for the Asia and Pacific Division of the International Fund for Agricultural Development, attended as a special guest. Chief Guest Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hassan said, “Knowledge-based initiatives and global unity and solidarity are essential to address the climate crisis. We have limited time and resources, so we need to take collective action. This crisis is not just a question of survival, but also the security of future generations and the very existence of many nations.”
Corinne Hêche Piniyani, Chargé d’affaires of the Embassy of Switzerland, and Shirin Lira, Program Manager of the embassy’s Governance, Climate Change, and Environment wing, welcomed the guests and shared details of the day’s program. says press release
The event began with a lively musical performance titled ‘Sounds of the Soil,’ which harmoniously blended the talents of Santal, Baul, and urban artists. Their folk-fusion melodies echoed the eternal bond between humans and nature, dedicating the day to the reconnection of climate, culture, and community.
In the morning, a visual storytelling session highlighted the core spirit of biophilia. This was followed by ‘CALL Talks: Voices from the Climate Frontlines,’ where Ratul Dev, Executive Director of GenLab, emphasized the crucial role of climate communication in amplifying grassroots voices in policy and global discussions. Community representatives shared their inspiring stories of resilience and adaptation from the field. A special part of this session was a panel discussion called ‘Synergy for Local Climate Solutions,’ where policymakers, experts, and practitioners exchanged views on cooperation in locally led climate action.
The afternoon focused on innovation and creativity. The ‘Climate Innovation Spotlight’ showcased initiatives by local innovators, startups, universities, and field workers on renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, waste management, and early disaster warning systems. One of the day’s main attractions was an exceptional sustainable fashion show, ‘Threads of the Earth.’ It combined natural fabrics, recycled designs, and traditional weaving with poetry, choreography, and visual presentations. Each garment told a story of resilience and sustainability.
Beyond the main stage, the day-long ‘Biophilia Beyond the Stage’ featured various interactive activities. Visitors explored the ‘In Light’ nature photography exhibition, participated in the collaborative ‘CALL Canvas’ art project, engaged with project displays at the ‘Climate Village,’ and virtually experienced the realities of climate vulnerabilities through ‘Climate Lens VR.’ Guests also expressed their personal pledges for climate protection on the ‘Tree of Commitments,’ a symbol of collective responsibility and hope.
The evening’s cultural program showcased the fusion of art and climate protection. Renowned theater group ‘The Theatrical Company’ staged a poignant play about the climate crisis and human struggles. This was followed by a fantastic performance by the popular band, Joler Gaan, whose songs told stories of nature, rivers, and human survival. The festival concluded with ‘Echoes of the Delta,’ a poetic blend of dance, music, and storytelling that deeply inspired the audience.
The closing session and climate pledge, titled ‘Friends of Climate,’ were attended by several distinguished guests. The chief guest was M. Sakhawat Hossain, Adviser to the Ministry of Shipping. Muhammad Fazlul Kabir Khan, Adviser to the Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources, served as the principal climate pledge taker. Among others, European Union Ambassador and Head of Delegation in Bangladesh, Michael Miller; former Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University, Dr. Ainun Nishat; and Secretary-General of the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, Dr. Kabir M. Ashraf Alam, ndc., were present in the occasion. Everyone present pledged their commitment to climate protection and vowed to strengthen local leadership.
A significant part of the event was supported by Switzerland the celebration of the ‘Climate Action at Local Level’ (CALL) network. This network is a joint initiative of nine Swiss NGOs: CBM (Christian Blind Mission), Enfants du Monde, GAIN (Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition), HEKS/EPER, Helvetas Bangladesh, Solidar Suisse, Swisscontact, Swiss Red Cross, and Terre des Homme supported by
In her closing remarks, Corinne Hêche Piniyani, on behalf of Switzerland, reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening climate resilience in Bangladesh. M. Sakhawat Hossain, Adviser to the Ministry of Shipping, said, “If we want to save our rivers and the livelihoods of the people who depend on them, we must invest in green skills and green infrastructure. The future of our workforce lies not in resisting change, but in leading it.” Finally, the principal climate pledge taker, Muhammad Fazlul Kabir Khan, encouraged and inspired everyone to commit to and lead climate protection efforts.
Biophilia 2025 will be remembered not just as a one-day event, but as a unique symbol of unity and commitment that connects people, climate, and culture. Through a blend of natural food and fashion, art and innovation, and theater and music, the event demonstrated that the reconnection of people, climate, and culture is more important than ever for a sustainable future.
