Dhaka faces significant environmental challenges common to rapidly industrializing mega-cities, but there is a growing movement toward sustainability.
* **Air Quality:** Dhaka frequently experiences poor air quality, particularly during the dry winter months (November to March), driven by vehicular emissions, construction dust, and traditional brick kilns. AQI levels can drop significantly during the monsoon season. * **Water Quality:** The Buriganga River, historically the lifeblood of the city, suffers from severe industrial and domestic pollution. However, government initiatives are underway to relocate polluting industries (like tanneries) and dredge the waterways. * **Protected Areas:** The Bhawal National Park in Gazipur offers a protected recreational forest area. Within the city, the National Botanical Garden and Ramna Park serve as vital green lungs. * **Sustainability Efforts:** The government has banned single-use polythene bags (though enforcement varies) and is pushing for greener technologies in the brick-making industry. The new Metro Rail system is a major step toward reducing carbon emissions from traffic.