Published: 12:00 AM, 03 May 2026
Green by Design: Matarbari – A Test Case for Sustainable Development in Bangladesh
Zillur Rahman
There comes a time in any development journey when the existing norms and assumptions are questioned. The Matarbari project may well become one of those defining moments for Bangladesh, not so much because of its size as because of how this scale is being addressed.
The main question posed by the project is straightforward yet fundamental to the nation's continued progress: Can Bangladesh develop on a grand scale without repeating the previous environmental mistakes?
In terms of connectivity and importance, the Matarbari Port Access Road, currently under development with support from the Japanese government, Max Infrastructure Limited, and several other stakeholders, offers a promising solution. Not only does the road provide access to the planned deep-sea port, thereby improving logistics efficiency, but it also opens a path to the further economic development of Cox's Bazar and the surrounding region. Overall, the project presents a unique opportunity to shift the paradigm and allow the country to overcome its historic constraints on port capacity.
Nevertheless, what sets the project apart is how this major infrastructure is being created.
In general, Bangladeshi construction relies excessively on fossil fuels such as diesel, consumes high amounts of electricity, and uses traditional materials. The methods used have been productive but not environmentally sustainable. On the other hand, what makes the Matarbari project stand out is the willingness to pursue alternative approaches.
In particular, the implementation of large-scale solar power for most of the construction activities is a crucial innovation that significantly lowers the need for diesel. Besides helping the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the use of renewable energy also delivers significant savings in energy costs and provides energy independence. Moreover, the solar energy system is expected to alleviate pressure on the national grid, as electricity generated by solar panels will reduce peak demand on the grid.
What is more important is that green technology in construction can be applied to all aspects of the process.
For instance, using AAC (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) instead of traditional bricks in construction helps to minimize air pollution in the industry, which is still responsible for most greenhouse gas emissions in Bangladesh. At the same time, these materials help to save money since they are lighter and more thermally efficient.
Finally, the implementation of electric transportation during construction provides another way to reduce on-site emissions. Typically, diesel-fueled trucks are used at construction sites, making construction activity the major source of air and noise pollution in the area. Electric vehicles eliminate the negative impact of these factors.
In summary, it seems that Matarbari serves as a test case, showcasing the potential of eco-friendly construction techniques in Bangladesh.
This leads us to an important question: Is it scalable?
Typically, flagship projects receive considerable attention and are usually developed with the assistance of foreign partners and advanced technology. On the contrary, the true challenge will come in implementing sustainable solutions on a regular basis.
Several issues will arise in the process. First, eco-friendly technology is more expensive than conventional construction practices. Moreover, if there is no regulatory framework supporting the transition, contractors' reluctance to invest additional capital may become a problem. To achieve its goal, Bangladesh must provide sufficient incentives and guidance for local companies to adopt sustainable construction methods.
Finally, the claims about environmental friendliness and energy-saving measures need to be verified to ensure that green technologies are truly effective and not merely marketing buzzwords. In turn, this requires greater transparency from companies involved in construction.
Despite potential obstacles, the Matarbari project deserves attention for its underlying message.
Overall, it seems the country is now facing the possibility of developing a new growth strategy focused not only on creating the necessary infrastructure but also on ensuring sustainable construction methods. The involvement of local businesses such as Max Infrastructure Limited in the process is indicative of the growing awareness of environmental issues among domestic companies.
In conclusion, it is important to note that sustainable development can only be achieved if green practices are internalized within the country, rather than relying on international partners.
Zillur Rahman is a political analyst and
President at the Centre for Governance
Studies (CGS) and hosts
‘Tritiyo Matra’ on Channel i.
