, April 8 -- Leading environmentalists, researchers and energy experts on Wednesday called for urgent investment and stronger policy support for renewable energy, warning that Bangladesh must act fast to reduce its heavy reliance on imported fuel amid global uncertainties.

Speaking at a round-table discussion, they said the country's import-dependent energy system has become increasingly vulnerable, further strained by the instability in the Middle East.

The speakers noted that renewable energy is now more viable than ever, with the cost of solar equipment and battery storage dropping by nearly half in recent years.

With timely and effective measures, the government's target of generating 40,000 MW of renewable electricity by 2040 coul...