BUET hosts seminar on nature-based solutions for Dhaka’s peripheral futures

The Department of Architecture at BUET held a seminar titled "Nature-Based Solutions for Peripheral Futures of Dhaka: Bridging Micro-Scale Placemaking and Macro-Scale Urban Transformation for a Resilient Urban Vision" on November 22, 2025, at the BUET Council Building.

The Urban Design and Landscape Division organised the event, with support from GIZ as the knowledge dissemination partner and Credence Housing Ltd as the logistics partner.

Around 130 participants attended. Professor Dr Abu Borhan Mohammad Badruzzaman, Vice Chancellor of BUET, chaired the session. Professor Dr Abdul Hasib Chowdhury attended as special guest. Mohammad Azaz, Administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation, was the chief guest but could not attend due to health concerns.

The seminar focused on the role of nature-based solutions in addressing climate adaptation, biodiversity loss, waterlogging, heat stress and public health risks. Speakers discussed the rapid transformation of Dhaka's northwestern periphery caused by embankment construction, landfilling, real estate expansion and hard infrastructure.

Fourth-year Urban Design Studio projects were presented, exploring how nature-based solutions can support resilient urban transformation. An exhibition of selected student work accompanied the seminar.

Design studio teachers and students presented their findings. Professor Dr Nasreen Hossain delivered the keynote on nature-based placemaking. Associate Professor Apurba K Podder discussed changing peripherality in Dhaka, and Assistant Professor Alia Shahed spoke about socio-spatial dimensions of a multi-scalar approach. Students analysed blue–green systems and community interactions in peripheral areas.

Panellists included Dr Khurshid Zabin Hossain Taufique, Iqbal Habib and Feisal Rahman, with Professor Dr Nasreen Hossain moderating. They stressed integrated planning, ecological restoration, economic viability, community engagement and long-term stewardship.

The seminar ended with a commitment to advancing nature-based solutions to support a resilient and ecologically balanced future for Dhaka's peripheries.