C

ontents 1.
Introduction
1.1 1.2 Climate Change : The Global Scenario Climate Change: Picture in Bangladesh

2.

Biotechnology: Solution to the Problem?

2.1 H o w

Climate Change And Biotechnology

World Scenario And Bangladesh Perspective
The role of biotechnology to fight global climate change can be crucial. By reducing greenhouse gases and fine-tuning agricultural and industrial processes, the developed countries are already profiting from it. Being a country very prone to natural disaster, Bangladesh too is starting to realize its importance. This report tends to show various biotechnological approaches taken by different nations and how these can help us prepare for the future. An action plan in this regard has also been proposed. Greater research and rapid implementation of the findings are crucial towards securing our nations progress and development against the disturbing future that lies ahead. Jalish Mahmud Riyad Exam Roll: 502, 4th Year Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Dhaka.

Can Green Biotechnology Improve the Situation?

2.1.1 Greenhouse Gas Reduction 2.1.1.1 2.1.1.2 2.1.1.3 2.1.2 2.1.3 Less fuel consumption on farms Carbon Sequestration Reduced Fertilizer Use

Crop Adaptation Protected and Increased Yield With Less Surface

2.2

How Industrial Biotechnology Can Tackle Climate Change

2.2.1 2.2.2 2.2.3 2.2.4 2.2.5 2.2.6 2.2.7 2.2.8 2.2.9 The Textile Sector Plastic Production Pulp and Paper Production and Bleaching Chemicals Industry Biofuels Food Industry Tanning and Leather Industry Dye Industry Industrial Biotechnology in Bangladesh

2.3

Bioeconomy
2.3.1 The 78.1 Billion Dollar Canadian Bioeconomy

3.

Discussion
3.1 3.2 Following the Golden Examples Constraints

3.3

Recommendations

4. 5.

Conclusion Reference

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure no. 1 2 3 4 Figure name Global temperature rise (1860-2000) Projected impacts of climate change Changing pattern in Bangladesh Bangladesh: One of the most climate vulnerable countries Page no. 7 7 8 8

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Impact of global warming on Bangladesh Vulnerability of Bangladesh to various natural calamities Water salinity intrusion in Bangladesh Water salinity in winter Soil salinity in (a) 1973 and (b) 1997 Impacts of SLR in Bangladesh SLR at three points in Bangladesh Agricultural emission of methane Agricultural methane emission in BD compared to that of Germany and Czech Republic Soybean area in Argentina: total, no-till and round up ready Bangladesh CO2 emission Sectoral consumption of natural gas in Bangladesh Fertilizer consumption in Bangladesh Even more mouth to feed US lbs of insecticide per planted acre and % acre of Bt corn Emission of CO2 per wash cycle using enzymes at 30C instead of 40C Potential GHG emission reduction from bio-based polymers Comparison of petroleum used by PLA and traditional plastics Comparison of emissions between plastics produced from petroleum and maize GHG emissions reduction in pulp bleaching Overview of chemicals that can be obtained from major biomass constituents by established or possible biotechnological processes Biofuels CO2 profile saving by feedstock Impact of enzymatic versus traditional wastewater treatment Scenario of Canada's GHG emission Proposed bioeconomy-based solutions to Canada's climate crisis Canadian industry sector GDP Main components of Canadas bio-based economy

9 10 11 11 11 12 12 15 15 17 18 20 21 24 25 28 29 30 30 31 32 33 35 37 38 39 39

LIST OF TABLES
Table no. 1 Table name Nitrous Oxide produced in agriculture (% of total) Page no. 16

Tractors per 100 sq. km

16

Context of C sequestration impact 2007 : car equivalents

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1. Introduction
Climate change is no longer something to happen in the future. It is here and it is now. Bangladesh is one of the most climate vulnerable countries in the world and will become even more so as a result of climate change. Floods, seasonal tropical cyclones, droughts and storm surges are likely to become even more frequent in the coming years. Some say that we are already late in taking proper actions and that this single problem can wipe the development we made in the last 20 years in reducing poverty and increasing income. Over the last 35 years, the Government of Bangladesh, with the support of development partners, has invested over $10 billion to make the country less vulnerable to natural disasters. These investments include flood management schemes, coastal polders, cyclone and flood shelters, and the raising of roads and highways above flood level. In addition, the Government of Bangladesh has developed state-of-the-art warning systems for floods, cyclones and storm surges, and is expanding communitybased disaster preparedness. But is that enough? Being a developing country, how far can we afford to fight against the ever-increasing climatic problems? Due to our delayed response and glaring negligence about climate change, its impacts are going to be too fast and too furious for our natural world to cope up with. So, besides taking necessary actions to save our people and property, we have to bring about a significantly positive change to help our environment revitalize. Many scientists around the world are now referring biotechnology as the magic bullet against climate change. It has been scientifically proved that biotechnology can indeed contribute to a low carbon footprint and make our crops better prepared to face the worse consequences of climate change. Moreover, the significant role industrial biotechnology can play to bring down green house gas emission rate and energy consumption is also worth mentioning. What role is green biotechnology playing in helping to fight climate change? How will that role evolve in future? Whilst not an exhaustive overview of these issues, this project paper illustrates the benefits that biotechnology can have in the areas of greenhouse gas reduction, industrial energy-consumption reduction, crop adaptation to climate change and dealing with the twin issues of climate change and population growth. The ultimate goal is to show the potentials of biotechnology as the most powerful tool against battling climate change in Bangladesh.

1.1 Climate Change: The Global Scenario

The intergovernmental panel on climate change predicts that global temperature will rise between 1.8 to 4 C by the last decade of the 21 st century.1 The 2006 report by economist, Nicholas Stern, commissioned by the UK government, warned that temperatures could increase by 2 to 3C in the next fifty years, and if nothing is done, by as much as 5 to 8C by the end of the century a catastrophic scenario.2

Mann (1999) showed the changes in global temperature (1860-2000) and reportedly, 1998 was the warmest year ever (up to 2000).

Figure 1: Global temperature rise (1860-2000)

Climate changes most obvious manifestation would be the change in weather conditions: more heat waves, storms and floods caused by melting glaciers (which could affect more than 30% of the worlds agricultural lands). Unabated, climate change could cost the world at least 5% of GDP each year; if more dramatic predictions come to pass, the cost could rise to more than 20% of GDP.

Figure 2: Projected Impacts of Climate Change

Among the other worrying consequences of climate change predicted by the Stern Report are declining crop yields, ocean acidification, malnutrition and heat stress, population displacement and threatened ecosystems. These effects could be particularly dramatic in the light of growing population levels: in order to feed the overall population, the world faces the daunting task of having to double its rate of agricultural production over the next 25 years3, having already quadrupled it in the last 50 years.

1.2 Climate Change: Picture in Bangladesh

Over the years, the temperature changing pattern has shown a significant change and points toward a continuous rise (fig 4). As we know, temperature rise is the ultimate factor that drives the other effects of climate change. So, this indicates a horrifying future ahead. Even if we stop all sorts of climate-changing activities now, the future calamities (by 2050) predicted by IPCC (Intergovernmental panel for climate Control) in their conference at Brussels (2007) are inevitable. Millions of people will have to leave Bangladesh for their lives, as the sea level rise and annual floods and cyclones will inundate significant portions of the country.

0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 0.0 -0.2 -0.4 -0.6

Deviation (C)

Y ear

Figure 3: Temperature changing pattern in Bangladesh

Bangladesh already is in the top country list of tropical cyclones and floods (fig 4). The three main calamities are: flood, cyclone and annual drought. The overall area-specific vulnerability to different calamities is shown in fig 6.

Figure 4: Bangladesh: One of the most climate vulnerable countries

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Figure 5: Impact of global warming on Bangladesh

From the figure above, it is clear that the effects of climate change and global warming is going to be very harsh indeed. Although Bangladesh has little contribution to climate change compared to other countries, its people are going to be among the first to experience the consequences. The geological position of Bangladesh has made it very vulnerable. Among its neighboring nations in South Asia, Bangladesh comes 2nd in the least energy consumption per capita list (after Nepal). In 2004-05, the energy consumption per capita was only 89 kg. With the rise of GDP, the energy demand, however, is going to increase by 50% within a few years.

11

Figure 6: Vulnerability of Bangladesh to various natural calamities

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Increased temperature will cause even more natural calamities. As we have seen in the recent years, devastating floods (i.e. 1988, 1998) and cyclones (SIDR,AILA) are occurring with narrow intervals, which signals drastic climate change. There are also rise in water salinity intrusion in the mainland (fig 6 and 7) and soil salinity (fig 8). Both of these factors causes fall in crop yield.

Figure 7: Water salinity intrusion in Bangladesh

Figure 8: Water salinity in winter

In the last 35 years, soil salinity and water salinity have taken an alarming form. During the winter, saline water gets even deeper into the mainland, causing steep fall in agricultural yields.

a
Figure 9: Soil salinity in (a) 1973 and (b) 1997

The Third Assessment Report (TAR) of IPCC indicates that the global sea level rise will be 9-88 cm (from 1999 to 2100). The SAARC Meteorological Research Centre (SMRC) analyzed sea level changes of 22 years historical tide data at three tide gauge locations in the coast of Bangladesh. The study revealed that the rate of sea level rise (SLR) during last 22 years is many fold higher than the mean rate of global sea level rise over 100 years.

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TAR/ NAPA
100 90 80 70 SLR (cm) 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Year 2030 Year 2050 Year

SMRC
9 8 7 mm/ yr 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
Year 2100

Hiron Point

Char Changa Station

Coxs Bazar

Figure 10: Impact of SLR in Bangladesh (ref. Institute of water modeling, 2006)

Figure 11: SLR at three points in BD

SLR will have powerful overall impacts on Bangladesh5, as summarized below In case of static altitude of the coastal areas with stagnant delta development process 10 cm SLR 2020 inundate 2% of the country 25 cm SLR 2050 inundate 4 % of the country 1m SLR 2100 about 17 % of the country Twenty million people, engaged in salt/ shrimp production, fishery/ agriculture, and other businesses will be directly affected. As a result of 1 metre rise in sea level, 29,846 sq. km coastal area will be inundated; 14.8 million people will be landless, and tens of thousands of people will be environmental refugees. Rice production will be drastically reduced Impacts of climate change will have the following effects on Sundarbans5: 10 cm SLR will 25 cm SLR will 45 cm SLR will 60 cm SLR will 1 - M SLR will inundate inundate inundate inundate destroy 15% of the Sundarbans 40% of the Sundarbans 75% of the Sundarbans 100% of the Sundarbans Whole Sundarbans

Species like Sundari, main economic species in the Sundarbans, would be replaced by less valuable Goran and Gewa. Human habitation possible prevents inland migration.

Loss of the Sundarbans and other coastal wetlands would reduce breeding ground for many estuarine fish, which could reduce their population.

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2. Biotechnology: Solutions to climate Change?

Biotechnology has several different sectors that can contribute to the solutions of global climate change. In many countries, the government and private sectors are working alike to combat climate change with this new and sophisticated biological tool. The roles of agricultural biotechnology (also known as Green Biotechnology) and industrial biotechnology (White Biotechnology) are worth mentioning in this respect. In the upcoming sections, we will see how these technologies put forward novel solutions to climatic problems. Well also see examples of how they are implemented around the world and how the problems they are attributed to can be solved in similar fashion in Bangladesh. European Union countries are chiefly shown as models. Also, discussions on how a bio-based economy can help our country boost its biotechnological approaches can be greatly beneficial to understand its potential both economically and strategically.

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2.1 How can Green Biotechnology improve the situation?

Green biotechnology offers a toolbox which can help farmers produce food sustainably through: 1. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction 2. Crop adaptation 3. Crop protection and increased yield from less available arable land

2.1.1 GREENHOUSE GAS REDUCTION

Agriculture is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. Agricultural practices-such as deforestation, cattle feedlots and fertilizer use - currently account for about 25% of all greenhouse gas emissions. Agriculture is also a major source of methane and nitrous oxide (N2O), with latest estimates showing that it accounts for 48% of methane emissions and 52% of N2O emissions in the EU. It is important to mention that N2O has 310 times and methane has 20 times more ability to trap heat than CO2.
Solutions

Whilst there is no one solution to these problems, given the likely impacts of climate change on agricultural productivity and the role played by agricultural practices in contributing to global warming, agricultural biotechnology techniques will play a role as one of the solutions available in the fight against climate change. Green biotechnology can help farmers produce food sustainably through: i) Less fuel consumption on farms through a reduced need to spray crops ii) Carbon sequestration iii) Reduced fertilizer use and N2O emissions

2.1.1.1 Less fuel consumption on farms

GM herbicide tolerant crops help farmers by reducing the need to plough fields in preparation for planting crops saving fuel. This resultant reduction in tractor use also helps to protect the structure of the soil which reduces erosion. The agricultural practice of ploughing is also known as tillage and the second example below explains how GM crops reduce fuel use by allow for the adoption of reduced tillage or no tillage systems. In addition, GM Insect Resistant Crops have been developed to require fewer insecticide treatments. This in turn means a reduction in fuel use and lower CO2 emissions since farmers need to spray pesticides less frequently on their fields. # Barfoot and Brookes study (2009)6 indicated that, in terms of greenhouse gases, each litres of tractor diesel consumed contributes an estimated 2.75 kg of CO2 into the

16

atmosphere. Therefore, the fuel savings associated with making fewer spray runs (relative to conventional crops) have resulted in permanent cuts in CO2 emissions. # The adoption of reduced tillage or no-tillage systems in respect of fuel use results in reductions of carbon dioxide emissions of 88.81 kg/ha and 35.66 kg/ha respectively.
Data and examples of EU as a model

In 2007 this amounted to a reduction of 1,144 million kg of CO2 (arising from a reduction of 416 million litres of fuel). Over the period 1996 to 2007 the cumulative permanent reduction in fuel use was estimated at 7,090 million kg of CO 2 (arising from a reduction of 2,578 million litres of fuel).
Bangladesh Perspective

In Bangladesh, the majority of methane emission is blamed on agriculture. This may be because of using low-octane-number diesel. Data shows that >65% methane is produced in agricultural processes7 (fig: 11), which is way over most of the European countries (fig: 12).

Figure 12: Agricultural methane emission (% of total)

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Figure 13: Agricultural methane emission in BD compared to that of Germany and Czech Republic
(Blue line: Bangladesh; Orange: Czech Republic and Tan: Germany)

Similar studies show that >90% N2O is attributed to agricultural processes8 (Table: 1).
Table 1: Nitrous Oxide produced in agriculture (% of total)

Year Value

1990 91.88

1995 93.83

2000 91.32

2005 91.86

With technological advancements, the use of tractors and other agricultural machineries is increasing gradually8. (Table: 2)
Table 2 : Tractors per 100 sq. km

Year 1961 Tractors 0.87 (per 100 sq. km arable land)

1971 2.57

1981 3.77

1991 2.32

2007 3.76

From this data, we can calculate the amount of GHG produced per 100 sq km. 1 Gallon diesel = 3.79 litres of diesel 100 sq. km = 0.404 acre Gallons of diesel needed per acre = 0.72 So, gallons of diesel needed for 0.404 acre = 0.72 X 0.404 = 0.29 So, 0.29 X 3.79 litre = 1.1 litre diesel is needed per 100 sq. km arable land From Barfoot and Brookes study, we can calculate that 1.1 X 2.75 kg = 3 kg CO2 is produced by 1 tractor in BD. So, 4 tractors produce more than 12 kg of CO2 in an area hourly.

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In Bangladesh, we have more than 5000 tractors now. So, they theoretically produce 15000 kg CO2 per hour. So, if we can reduce the amount of diesel being used (by using GM crops), we have a great chance to reduce GHG emission in our agricultural sectors.

2.1.1.2 Carbon sequestration

As previously mentioned, crops developed with agricultural biotechnology reduce the need for tillage or ploughing, allowing farmers to adopt conservation or no-till farming practices. Undisturbed soils absorb carbon and convert it into organic matter in the ground. If left undisturbed for several years, the organic matter becomes a stable sink for carbon. As a result, over time soil quality is enhanced and becomes carbonenriched since more crop residue can be left on the fields. In addition, since the soil is not inverted by ploughing, less carbon in the soil becomes oxidized through exposure to the air and therefore less CO2 is released into the atmosphere. Even a single tillage pass, however, aerates the soil and releases carbon back into the atmosphere. One report estimates that an acre of no-till land stores 0.64 metric tons more carbon each year than an acre of land in conventional tillage. Data and examples In 2007, the no-till area nearly doubled in the US and a 5-fold increase was recorded in Argentina, with GM herbicide tolerant (HT) soybeans estimated to account for 95% of the no-till soybean area9. Besides soil preservation, no-tillage agriculture saves fossil fuel use in tractors, and decreases the economic costs and environmental impact of productive farming. The figure below depicts the high correlation between GE soy-bean adoption and no-till growth in Argentina.

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Figure 14: Soybean Area in Argentina: Total, No-Till, and Roundup Ready

According to Barfoot and Brookes (2009)10, the additional amount of soil carbon sequestered since 1996 has been equivalent to 83,179 million tonnes of carbon dioxide which would otherwise have been released into the global atmosphere. Details of the carbon dioxide savings for 2007, identified by Brookes and Barfoot are shown in the table below.
Table 3. Context of C sequestration impact 2007 : car equivalents

Bangladesh Perspective

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Bangladesh has a very high atmospheric CO2 amount and the emission of CO 2 is ever increasing (fig 6). Generally the forests of Bangladesh can sequester 92 tC/ha, on average and 190 tC/ha in the reforested degraded hill forests in particular 11 . I n 2 0 0 0 , t h e t o t a l p l a n t a t i o n a r e a o f B a n g l a d e s h

Figure 15: Bangladesh CO2 emission

u n d e r r e f o r e s t a t i o n a c t i v i t i e s was 625,000 ha, with an annual planting rate of 22,000 ha. With a huge pool of existing plantation and natural forests in Bangladesh, it can be assumed that Bangladesh is playing a major role in mitigating global warming. Bangladesh has a lot of degraded forestlands and other wastelands to be reforested. Like the examples shown in case of US and other countries, GM crops with higher photosynthetic ability and C sequestration capacity can significantly reduce CO2 in the atmosphere.

2.1.1.3 Reduced fertilizer use

Nitrous oxide or N2O has a global warming potential (GWP) of 296, or about 300 times greater than carbon dioxide. This means that one kilo of nitrous oxide is equivalent to 296 kilos of CO2. In addition, nitrous oxide stays in the atmosphere for more than 100 years. N2O from agricultural fields happens when nitrogen fertilizers applied to crops interact with common soil bacteria. Reduced fertilizer use will also mean less nitrogen pollution of ground and surface waters. A lot of debate is going on the overuse of chemical herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers. They become an environmental hazard because they undergo degradation by microorganisms and ultraviolet light which releases toxic chemicals in the environment. Using biotechnology, bacterial pesticides and viral pesticides are being developed which will help in reducing the use of chemical pesticides. Biofertilizers are also being used in place of chemical fertilizers to further reduce the environmental hazards caused due to chemical fertilizers. The term biofertilizers is used to refer to the nutrient inputs of biological origin to support plant growth which is generally achieved by the addition of microbial inoculants as a source of biofertlizers. Biofertilizers broadly includes the following categories12: A) Symbiotic nitrogen fixers- The diazotrophic microorganisms are the symbiotic nitrogen fixers that serve as biofertilizers e.g. Rhizobium sp., Bradyrhizopium sp.

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B) Asymbiotic nitrogen fixers- The asymbiotic nitrogen fixing bacteria can directly convert the gaseous nitrogen to nitrogen rich compounds. On the death of these nitrogen fixers, the soil becomes enriched with nitrogenous compounds thereby serving as biofertilizers e.g. Azobacter sp., Azospirillum sp. The blue green algae, multiply in the water logging conditions and fixes the nitrogen. They accumulate the biomass which helps in improving the physical properties of the soil. This is useful for reclamation of alkaline soils besides providing partial tolerance to pesticides. The most common blue green algae are Azobacter sp. and Azospirillum sp. Azolla, which is an aquatic fern contains an endophytic cynobacterium Anabaena azollae in the leaf cavities providing symbiotic relationship. Azolla with Anaebaena is useful as biofertilizer. C) Phosphate solubilising bacteria- Some bacteria like Thiobacillus, Bacillus are capable of converting non-available inorganic phosphorus present in the soil to organic or inorganic form of phosphate. Data and examples GM rice and canola has been developed13 that uses nitrogen more efficiently, so the plants need less fertilizer. This so-called Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) technology produces plants with yields equivalent to conventional varieties but which require significantly less nitrogen fertilizer because they use it more efficiently . This technology has the potential to reduce the amount of nitrogen fertilizer lost by farmers every year due to leaching into the air, soil and waterways. Bangladesh Perspective Bangladesh largely depends on chemical fertilizers because of its high crop demand and limited arable land. With the population being doubled in less than 40 years, the everincreasing pressure on whatever amount of land remain, makes it extremely difficult to have enough yield without fertilizers. The more fertilizer is used, the more N gets into the environment. With its extensive river-system, the situation is worsened for the biodiversity as the harmful chemicals are washed away with rain. The following figures show the nations dependence on fertilizer.

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Figure 16: Sectoral Consumption of natural gas in BD

In 2009, WWR Bio Fertilizer Bangladesh Ltd. has formally released its first high quality organic fertilizer, produced from fruits and vegetables waste from the markets of Dhaka15. The new born bio fertilizer, named Waste Concern Jaiba Sar (WCJS), is being produced on the organic waste composting plant at Bhulta (Narayanganj) in the outside areas of Dhaka. The Bio Fertilizer is recently approved by the government in Bangladesh. The plant, the first of its kind in the country with a huge capacity, uses local fruit and vegetable waste from the citys markets as raw materials.

(A)

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(B) Figure 17: Fertilizer consumption in Bangladesh (A) and (B)14

2.1.2 CROP ADAPTATION

Agriculture accounts for 70% of all water use (96% of overall water withdrawal in Bangladesh); if current trends continue, predicted water shortages in agriculture have been identified as the single most significant constraint on crop production over the next 50 years. The gravity of the problem becomes apparent when we consider experts predictions that agricultural output will need to double by 2050 to feed a growing population. In EU, high water-stress areas are expected to increase from 19% today to 35% by 2070, implying significant changes in the quality and availability of water resources. Agricultural biotechnology can play a significant role in enabling farmers to improve yield by using water more sustainably and helping to cope with water scarcity. This works in two main ways: i) By reducing water loss ii) By improving drought tolerance i) Minimising water loss from agriculture Agricultural biotech practices have been developed to reduce the amount of ploughing required before planting their crops. This means the soil surface is not inverted which helps trap soil moisture. Under drought conditions this can mean the difference between having a crop to harvest and crop failure. Less ploughing also means less fossil-fuel use, less CO2 emission and less soil erosion. ii) Improving drought tolerance Plants react to stresses such as drought by consuming large quantities of stored energy normally used for growth and seed production. Drought conditions can therefore drain the plants energy reserves, resulting in irreversible damage to the plant or even death. Agricultural biotechnology practices which improve drought tolerance have an immediate positive impact on the plants resilience and the energy available to it for growth to maturity and seed production. Current research projects

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Drought-tolerant maize has now entered the regulatory phase of development in the US, demonstrating that a GM solution to this important issue is well beyond the theoretical stage. The Water Efficient Maize for Africa (WEMA) partnership, led by the African Agriculture Technology Foundation (AATF), is a five-year public-private partnership aiming to develop new African drought-tolerant maize varieties incorporating the best technology available internationally. The varieties developed through the project will be distributed to African seed companies through AATF without royalty and made available to smallholder farmers as part of their seed business. The national agricultural research systems, farmers groups, and seed companies participating in the project will contribute their expertise in field testing, seed multiplication, and distribution. The project will involve local institutions, both public and private, and in the process will expand their capacity and experience in crop breeding, biotechnology, and biosafety. The current timing for the availability of the crop is 2017. Kenya has recently announced its intention to commence field trials with this type of maize. Hybrid crops have been developed to tolerate drought and periodic water deficits. Over the next decade, several companies plan to introduce GM crops that will further improve drought tolerance. While no plant can grow without water, hybrids and varieties are being developed that use water sources more efficiently and therefore perform better during water deficits. Maintaining yields during water stress will help preserve grower incomes and yield more grain for the food and energy value chain, as well as reducing the need for irrigation. Bangladesh Status The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), with the help of two Bangladeshi organizations, has successfully tested the rice, which can survive up to 27 days without water16. The existing rice varieties in Bangladesh wither and die after 10 to 12 days if water is not available in the land. In 2010, Bangladesh witnessed the lowest rainfall in 15 years, a change experts characterized as an impact of global climate change. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department recorded 47,000 mm of rainfall in June, July, August and September 2010, compared to 56,000 mm in the same period of the last year, 60,000 mm in 2008 and 66,000 mm in 2007. The measurements are countrywide averages. Drought affected about 100,000 hectares (250,000 acres) of land in Bangladeshs Barindra and other northern districts during the July to September period. The new rice variety was even successful in Panchagar district, where rice normally cant be grown as a result of lack of rainfall. The rice is suitable to grow in the July to September cropping period, though cant be grown in winter as it is intolerant of cold, he said.In Bangladesh, the rice has produced 3.5 tonnes of rice per hectare in test plots. Existing rice varieties can produce up to 4.5 tonnes per hectare but only if there is no drought, experts said.

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India has already released the rice variety under the name Shahabagi in 2009, and it is now grown on 235,000 hectares of Indian farmland. Before sending the new variety to farmers in Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute carried out its own tests over the 2008 to 2010 period. The rice was also tested by 36 farmers in eight districts of Rangpur division, who said they were happy with the results. Some of them have even reported of having used only 44 kg fertilizer compared to 80 kg needed for traditional varieties. In Bangladesh, where up to 1 million hectares of land has been affected by salinity, a new salt-resistant variety of rice is helping thousands of small-scale farmers adapt. Developed by the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI), BRRI Dhan 47 withstands moderately saline water, yields about six to seven tonnes per hectare and is also able to be grown in shrimp enclosures. BRRI has successfully released 57 high-yielding Modern Varieties41 (MV) - (53 inbred and 4 hybrid). With appropriate management, and under favorable soil and environmental conditions, these MVs may yield 5-7 t/ha in the Boro, 3-4 t/ha in the Aus, and 4-5 t/ha in the transplant Aman seasons compared with no more than 2-3 t/ha of the traditional varieties. A few BRRI MVs are now widely grown in some other countries, such as, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Vietnam and West Africa. During the early years of research, BRRI followed IRRI in developing semi-dwarf photoperiod insensitive varieties. Over time, BRRI scientists deviated from the IRRI concept of dwarfism for high yield, and restructured the IR8 plant type to suit local agro-ecological and climatic conditions. Varieties with intermediate height, having relatively longer growth cycles and mild photo-period sensitivity have been developed. The MVs developed in the 1980s and 1990s, are suitable for varying ecosystems and have a wide range of disease and insect resistance, for example, BR17, BR18 and BR19 have been developed for the Boro areas (depressed basins) in the north-eastern region of Bangladesh, BR20 and BR21 for the high rainfall upland situation (direct-seeded Aus), BR22 and BR23 with photoperiod sensitivity for late transplanting in the Aman season after the recession of the flood water, BRRI dhan27 for the non-saline tidal areas, and BRRI dhan30, BRRI dhan 31 and BRRI dhan 32 for rainfed lowland areas. Very recently, eight varieties, of which two are aromatic, have been developed. These are awaiting final evaluation by the National Seed Board (NSB) for release as new cultivars. About 8,000 germplasms, most of which are local, have been collected and preserved in the BRRI gene bank. BRRI is now moving ahead with a radical idea, that of developing a new rice plant type with 'cluster grains' panicles. The new plants are expected to bring about 2025% yield improvement over the existing MVs. BRRI is now undertaking breeding for flash flood submergence tolerance in varieties : BR11 sub1, Swarna sub1,IR64 sub1, Sumba sub.

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2.1.3 PROTECTED AND INCREASED YIELD WITH LESS SURFACE

Agricultural biotechnology lessens the pressure for land use changes by increasing yields on existing land, due to reduced crop damage and by promoting more intensive use of existing land, e.g., double-cropping. As an example, China faces the onerous task of feeding a fifth of the worlds population with less than a tenth of global farmland. Confronted with land degradation, chronic water shortages and a growing population that already numbers 1.3 billion, it is perhaps not surprising that China recently announced its intention to invest $3.5 billion in research and development of GM plants17.

Figure 18: Even more mouths to feed

Data and examples One of the early successes of biotechnology was the ability to insert genes from a naturally occurring soil bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), into maize, cotton, and other crops to impart intrinsic protection from insect feeding. For many farmers, Bt crops are proving to be a valuable tool for integrated pest management programs by giving growers new pest control choices. This is also the case for fungal diseases, a real problem for farmers in maize and cereal cultivation. As well as causing yield losses, some fungi can also produce toxic substances known as mycotoxins. There are over 300 known toxins, each with specific effects. For example, high levels of fumonisin, one of those 300, is associated with oesophageal cancer and neural tube defects. Since fungal infections arise at the point of insect damage, Bt maize is a powerful tool to reduce the level of fumonisin which could have significant benefits in developing countries, especially where unprocessed maize is a key part of the diet. The latest Brookes & Barfoot (2009) global impact study shows that since 1996, biotech traits have added 67.8 million tonnes and 62.4 million tonnes respectively to

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global production of soybeans and corn. The technology has also contributed an extra 6.85 million tonnes of cotton lint and 4.44 million tonnes of canola. This study also shows that if GM technology had not been available to the (12 million) farmers using the technology in 2007, maintaining global production levels at the 200 levels would have required additional plantings of 5.9 million ha of soybeans, 3 million ha of corn, 2.5 million ha of cotton and 0.3 million ha of canola. This total area requirement is equivalent to about 6% of the arable land in the US, or 23% of the arable land in Brazil.

Figure 19: U.S. Lbs. of Insecticide Applied per Planted Acre and % Acres of Bt Corn

Bangladesh Status

Bangladesh initially started its GM crop research with potatoes that are resistant to blight, and aubergines (eggplants) and chickpeas that are resistant to insect pests called the fruit and shoot borer and the pod borer. Recently, Bangladesh has approved Bt brinjal. The average shoot damage in Bt brinjal hybrids ranged from 0.06 percent to 0.4 percent as compared to 0.18 percent to 1.7 percent in non-Bt brinjal hybrids. The percentage of damaged fruits reportedly ranged from 2.5 percent to 20 percent in Bt brinjal to 24 percent to 60 percent in non-Bt counterparts18. Heavy use of pesticide sprays also adds to the cost of non-Bt brinjal production. On average, it costs Bangladeshi farmers US$300/ha to produce hybrid non-Bt brinjal. Of that, 60 percent is spent on crop protection (based on a field assessment and estimates prepared by BARI consultants). With growing Bt brinjal, it is possible to reduce the costs of small and marginal farmers by 25-80 percent, largely due to the reduction in pesticides spray. The major achievements of BRRI are42:

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Many advance breeding lines have been screened to identify materials tolerant to different abiotic stresses like salinity, cold, high temperature, flash flood, etc. BRRI dhan40 and BRRI dhan41 show and reproductive phases with salinity levels of 8-10 dS/m. BR10 and BR23 have shown similar tolerance score at reduction division stage with the same salinity levels. Strongly photoperiod sensitive variety is more affected by flash flood submergence than weakly sensitive and insensitive variety. The biochemical aspects of submergence tolerance have been explored. Regrowth of a tolerant variety during post submergence period was found to be associated with the amount of residual carbohydrate content and higher stability of chlorophyll during submergence period. Submergence tolerance was also found to be related with higher PDC and ADH activity. Younger seedlings (30 day old) from October seeded bed produced very low yield while sixty day old seedlings produced more than 5 t grain yield but thirty and sixty day old seedlings from November seeded bed can produce more than 5 t grain yield. All the BRRI varieties have the potentiality to produce roots at 7-14 DAT even when the mean minimum temperature is 120C. However, varieties differ in root growth. Grain yield of T. aman rice is affected by the amount and distribution of rainfall during lean period of October to November. Under such condition, insensitive, early maturing varieties can be harvested in early October and should be grown. Elongation of basal internodes with thinner culm made BRRI dhan32 vulnerable to lodging. The morphophysiological reasons for higher grain yield of BRRI dhan29 than BR3 and BRRI dhan28 than BR1 are probably due to a) better top 3 LAI during ripening phase b) higher crop growth rate and panicle growth rate and c) higher number of filled grain per panicle and filled grain per m2. IR64580-8-1-2B-9-1-2-1 and IR66043-2B-R-3-2-3-3 were selected for ratooning ability. Micronutrient-enriched rice43 : i) GR BRRI Dhan 29 is Vit A enriched ii) High iron and Zinc: BR7517-2R-2-1 has Fe (5.0-6.0 mg/kg). BR7517-2R-4-1 has >25 mg/kg Zn in polish rice. BRRI Hybrid Dhan2 has a growth duration of 148 days and the yield is 20% higher.

2.2 How Industrial Biotechnology Can Tackle Climate Change

Industrial or white biotechnology is one of the most promising new approaches to pollution prevention, resource conservation, and cost reduction. Industrial emissions have substantially fallen over the past 30 years in most western European countries. This is mainly due to technology improvements1. However,

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todays technologies will most probably not be sufficient and adequate to achieve the ambitious objective set by the European Union to become the world leader in combating climate change. Applications of white biotechnology can contribute to meet the EUs environmental objective to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 20% in 2020. It uses enzymes and microorganisms to make products in sectors such as chemicals, food and feed, paper and pulp, textiles and energy. By using biotech processes, all these sectors can make significant contributions to mitigating climate change. A newer example on how biotechnology solutions could help reduce carbon emissions is the harvesting of biogas from waste digesters and wastewater streams. Biorefineries are able to transform any bio-based waste material into a valuable feedstock for the production of other bio-based materials. The possible emission reductions for such processes are estimated to be as high as 633 million tons of CO2. Industrial biotechnology has the potential to save the planet up to 2.5 billion tons of CO 2 emissions per year and support building a sustainable future, a WWF report found. A recent report published by WWF Denmark identifies the potential to be between 1 billion and 2.5 billion tons CO2 per year by 2030, more than Germanys total reported emissions in 1990. The report identifies four fundamental dimensions of industrial biotechnology: Improved efficiency, the substitution of fossil fuels, the substitution of oil-based materials and the creation of a closed loop system with the potential to eliminate waste.

2.2.1 The textile sector

Enzymes have been used in detergents since the 1960s and since then have helped to reduce the amount of detergent released into the environment as well as decreasing the energy needed to do laundry. In fact detergent enzymes represent one of the largest and most successful applications of modern industrial biotechnology. Washing machines are one of the biggest consumers of household electricity, and 80% of the electricity for washing laundry is used to heat the water. With the new generation of cold water enzymes, washing temperatures can be reduced from 40C to 30C, without sacrificing cleanliness, and saving 30% of the electricity used on the laundry. This one small step has not only had an impact on electricity bills but has also significantly reduced CO2 emissions. Studies show that CO2 emissions can be reduced by 100 g per wash by washing at 30C rather than 40C19. (See Graph)

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Figure 20: Emission of CO2 per wash cycle using enzymes at 30C instead of 40C.

Enzymes partly replace other, often less desirable, chemicals in detergents and contribute to reducing both the duration of the washing cycle and water consumption. Enzymes are bio degradable, do not present risks to aquatic life, and so minimize the environmental impact of detergents. Use of enzymes in the laundering process leads to a reduction of eco-toxic substances between 5% and 60%, depending on the product.20 Textile bleaching is usually done using hydrogen peroxide followed by at least two rinses in hot water (80-95C). With the use of an enzyme that degrades residual peroxide during the second post-bleach rinse, water heated to 30-40C can be used and less energy is needed21. A comparison of the amount of water used in the bleach clean-up process shows that by using a specific enzyme22, 6300 to 19 000 liters of water per tonne of textiles are saved. By substituting the enzyme for a reducing agent in a hot rinse, additional savings of energy around 1,6 to 1,8 GJ/tonne of textiles can be made, and, owing to the reduced energy consumption, release of CO2 is lowered by 100-120 kg/tonne of textiles produced23. Another application of enzymes in the textile industry is in the treatment of cotton fibres. Traditionally, before cotton can be dyed, it goes through numerous processes including a series of chemical treatments and rinsing in water. With a biotechnology process, it is possible to reduce the use of chemicals and therefore the amount of water needed to rinse the fibers by as much as 30-50%. Compared to the traditional chemical process, the enzymatic process reduces the pH (acidity) from 14 to 9 (7 = pH neutral) and temperature from 95C to 55C, meaning that there are important energy savings. Also, the rinse water required is reduced by half, which in combination with the energy savings makes the process cheaper. Finally, fibre strength and softness are improved and, because the process is milder on the cotton, a higher yield is achieved24.

2.2.2 Plastics production

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Plastics in general are important materials contributing significantly to environmental protection: due to their tailor-made properties (e.g. light weight, excellent insulation ability, tunable properties for optimum food protection, etc.) they reduce already energy use by 26% and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 56% across a variety of applications compared to alternatives25. Besides crude oil, natural gas and coal, biomass is an additional raw material source for plastics. Today, biotech processes allow for the production of biobased plastics from renewable resources. Even though today biobased plastics make up only a small portion of all plastics produced, they contribute to a reduction of dependency on fossil fuel in some specific sectors. In many cases, the production of biobased polymers has a great potential to reduce greenhouse gases. Using biotechnology processes to produce plastics, less energy may be expended, few resources are consumed and global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are reduced. Depending on the type of bioplastic, biobased polymers may contribute up to a 50% decrease in terms of energy consumption and up to 67% savings of CO2 emissions during the production process26.

Figure 21: Potential GHG emission reduction from bio-based polymers

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Figure 22: Comparison of petroleum used by PLA and traditional plastics

Figure 23: Comparison of emissions between plastics produced from petroleum and maize

2.2.3 Pulp and paper production and bleaching

GHG emissions reduction in pulp bleaching Converting wood into paper is an energy, water and chemical intensive process.The conventional chemical process requires boiling wood chips at around 160C before bleaching the pulp with chlorine dioxide. With the application of biotechnology processes, it is now possible to reduce the amount of chlorine chemicals by 10-15% and to cut the energy used during the bleaching process by 40% which means lower emissions during power generation27. Enzyme technology can also be applied during the bleach boosting or refining processes of kraft pulp [pulp from wood chips], resulting in less CO2 production28.

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Figure 24: GHG emissions reduction in pulp bleaching

2.2.4 Chemicals industry

Biotechnology can be used to produce various bulk and fine chemicals that are currently produced from fossil fuel based feedstock. Traditionally, the vitamin B2 manufacturing process starts with glucose and is followed by a sequence of six chemical steps. Since 1990, most chemical processes have been replaced by fermentation. Producers now use yeasts or fungi in a single integrated biological process. The move to bioprocessing for production of vitamin B2 resulted in a 40% cost reduction and in a drastic reduction of wastes and pollutants. The energy used in the chemical and the biotechnological processes is about equal: chemical synthesis uses more steam (energy) which comes from fossil fuels, but fermentation involves more electricity. However, compared to chemical synthesis, fermentation has reduced the use of non-renewable resources by 80%, volatile organic compounds by 50% and emissions to water by 66% while the residuals (34%) are inorganic salt and biomass. Out of every five full tanks of fuel in a car, one is consumed by tyre friction on the road. To reduce the energy consumed by the tyres hitting the road, a technology was developed using corn starch as a polymer filler that reinforces the tyres compounds and optimizes their properties. Traditional chemical compounds such as silicia and carbon black (which give tyres their deep black colour) can be replaced with a renewable and environmentally-friendly additive. This new technology decreases CO2 emissions by 7,7g/km. Last but not least, the improved filler helps reduce tyre noise level by some 50%.

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Figure 25: Overview of chemicals that can be obtained from major biomass constituents by established or possible biotechnological processes29

2.2.5 Biofuels
Several studies have been published on the eco-efficiency of biofuels 30, reporting CO2 savings with the present biofuel technologies between 20 and 80% (depending on the feedstock and conversion process) compared with using conventional petrol. And it is estimated that this can increase to 90% and higher for second generation biofuels such as cellulosic ethanol. Further innovation in the biofuel supply chain, such as high energy feedstock, less fuel intensive cultivation of crops and low carbon conversion processes could help to achieve further CO2 savings as well as a more sustainable use of biomass.

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Figure 26: Biofuels CO2 profile saving by feedstock31

2.2.6 Food industry

There are different drivers for the use of enzyme technology in the food industry. Enzyme technology can improve the quality of the food product, for instance, by making juice products that are more cloud-stable [that stays clear and does not precipitate particles from the pulp] or by reducing the content of unsaturated fat in fat spreads. The technology can further reduce processing costs by reducing chemical and energy use and processing time. Finally many enzymes applications in the food industry are advantageous mainly due to their impact on processing conditions in food manufacturing plants, where enzyme use may result in savings of energy and chemicals.
Reduced waste of bread by the use of maltogenic amylase

Recently a special amylase has been commercialized that diminishes the crystallisation of starch, reducing waste of bread by allowing bread to stay fresh and moist longer. This effect has provided industrial bakeries with new opportunities for changing their production and delivery setup in order to produce at larger, centralized bakeries and make fewer deliveries to retailers. The industry can save both money and energy, while less waste bread also means more efficient use of agricultural raw materials.

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There are significant environmental gains due to better utilization of agricultural raw materials. A reduction of GHG emissions of up to 54 t per million loaves of bread sold can be obtained32. The major contribution to the reduction of CO2 emissions is also, in this case, the agricultural load. Some 65% of the reduction stems from savings in the production of wheat, including agricultural emissions, production of fertilizer and traction. Some 15% of the reduction comes from savings in energy consumption during milling and baking and 15% comes from reduced transportation.

2.2.7 Tanning and leather industry

Enzymes have been used in the tanning industry for centuries because they are efficient in degrading protein and fat. In early times, the enzymes were derived from animal excrement and later on from the pancreases of cattle. Today, the enzymes are almost entirely produced by microbial fermentation. Soaking enzymes reduce the required soaking time, the surfactant [a molecule that lowers surface tension, e. g. increasing its wetting properties or assisting the formulation of emulsified liquids] and soda requirements during the tanning process. Reduced soaking time leads to electricity savings in turning the drum where the hides rest. Enzymes that remove hair during the tanning process reduce the sulfide requirements for the process. The environmental impacts of producing and delivering the enzymes to the tannery on the one hand and the savings in chemicals and electricity on the other have been evaluated via a LCA33 study. This comparison of conventional and enzyme-assisted bovine soaking and de-hairing /liming processes indicates that the application of enzymes in the tanning industry is justified by considerable energy savings and considerable reductions in the processes contribution to global warming. Assuming that the environmental improvements by switching from conventional to enzyme-assisted soaking and de-hairing/liming are applicable worldwide, the global saving potential is in the order of 8 million GJ of energy and 0.7 million tonnes of CO2 per year.

2.2.8 Dye industry

Thanks to the production of dyes through more environmentally friendly processes, as well as through wastewater treatment, enzymes can help to reduce the potential environmental impact of dyes. Bioprocesses to produce biobased colourants have been developed and recently patented as an alternative to traditional chemical synthesis. While the creation of chemical-based dyes requires temperature up to 70-90C in harsh conditions, the enzymatic synthesis of these colourants can be obtained at ambient temperature, under mild conditions.

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Figure 27: Impact of enzymatic versus traditional wastewater treatment

Enzymatic treatment of coloured wastewater was shown to cut toxicity towards human cells in half. An LCA34 showed that, as compared to classical chemical sludge, enzymes can reduce by 10 times the impact on global warming, reduce by a factor of 2 the impact on the ozone layer, reduce by a factor of 3 the impact on abiotic [non living components in the environment) depletion and decrease by a factor of 3 the impact on marine toxicity.

2.2.9 INDUSTRIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY IN BANGLADESH

In the field of industrial biotechnology Bangladesh is yet to make real breakthroughs. Modern biotechnological programs involving gene transfer technology have yet to be started in real earnestness. Whatever has been possible is through classical/old bio technology methods. However, the results are quite encouraging and a good number of projects are in advanced stage which can be taken up for commercialization35.

Bioconversion and bioprocessing of agricultural and agro-industrial residues for feed, fuel and chemicals. Genetic improvement of industrial micro-organisms like citric acid producing Aspergillus niger through gamma radiation.(has reached commercial stage) Mass scale production of Spirulina (has reached commercial stage). Production of biofertilizer (has reached commercial stage). Production of amylase and gluco-amylase for scarification of low cost starch. Production of microbial biomass protein and single cell protein. Production of tannery enzymes: There are 175 tanneries in Bangladesh now. The enzymatic dehairing and bating of hides have been widely accepted as an

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alternative to the chemical process (Manachini et al. 1988). However, use of commercial enzyme (a mixture of alkaline protease and lipase) in the bating step needs import of about 400 MT of bating powder, costing almost 25 million BDT. Recently, a new Bacillus strain FS-1 has been found36 which can do the de-hairing process with 100% efficiency. Commercialization of this strain after proper modification can both save money and help improve the environmental damage done by the chemical steps. Production of alcohol from agroindustrial residues a few distilleries in the country are already utilizing >50,000 MT of molasses for the production of ethyl alcohol. Preservation of fruits, vegetables and spices by radiation and bioprocessing. Bioenrichment of cereal food by microbial fermentation. Emission reduction: WWR reduces greenhouse gas emissions from solid waste by preventing both the composition and the emission of greenhouse gas. Prevent emission of greenhouse gas: In a landfill organic matter decays anaerobically. On degradation it releases methane, a gas that contributes to the greenhouse effect 21 times more than CO2. This makes capturing the gas eligible for receiving carbon credits. Within the Recycling Center Concept the landfill gas is being captured and used to generate energy. An example project, the Dhaka Landfill Gas to Energy project, was registered by WWR in December 2005. Prevent composition of greenhouse gas: The WWR composting methodology is aerobic, turning organic waste into compost without producing methane. The methodology obtained approval by the CDM Executive Board under registration number AM0025. Application of the methodology generates Certified Emissions Reductions (carbon credits). The first project under the AM0025 methodology, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, was registered by WWR in May 2006. This project aim was to reduce CO2 emission by 80,000 tons between 2006 and 2010. Bangladesh Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR) has developed spirulina tablets, which is both a medicine and health food. Bangladesh has innovated the technique for large-scale bioremediation (through duckweed) of arsenic from groundwater. Bioindicator (Azolla filiculoidis) for arsenic pollution has been developed.

Bangladesh holds great possibility in industrial biotechnology. The chief export sector is the garments industry, where various chemical processes are done. The tannery industry is also a rich, but old-tech sector. In these two sectors other countries have done marvelous jobs in implementing biotechnology. These two sectors only can greatly reduce energy consumption and harmful gas and chemical emission. Bangladesh has a very cheap labor which can greatly elevate the success probability of industrial biotechnology. The sequencing of the jute genome opens the door for various research (on its tolerance to stresses) and industries on the GOLDEN FIBRE and this can greatly contribute to our economy as well.

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2.3 Bioeconomy
Bioeconomy refers to all economic activity derived from scientific and research activity focused on understanding mechanisms and processes at the genetic and molecular levels and its application to industrial process. It is closely linked to the evolution of the biotechnology industry. The evolution of the biotechnology industry and its application to agriculture, health and chemical or energy industries is a classic example of bioeconomic activity.

2.3.1 The $78.3 Billion Canadian Bioeconomy

Biotechnology is driving an economic shift to a broader bio-based economy which integrates biologic products and technologies, derived from renewable resources, into new sustainable production and manufacturing processes. Canadas bioeconomy solution has lessened the GHG manifold. CO2 emission is reduced more than 240 mt37. And these processes are very much economically profitable as well. Canadas bio-based economy is valued at 78.3 billion dollars. At 6.4 percent of the GDP, this footprint is larger than the automotive and aerospace sectors respectively.38, 39

Fig 28: Scenario of Canada's GHG emission

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Fig 29: Proposed bioeconomy-based solutions to Canada's climate crisis

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Figure 30: Canadian industry sector GDP

Figure 31: Main components of Canadas bio-based economy

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3. Discussion
3.1 Following Golden Examples
"Given the nature and magnitude of the challenge, national

action alone is insufficient. No nation can address this challenge on its own. No region can insulate itself from these climate changes. That is why we need to confront climate change within a global framework, one that guarantees the highest level of international cooperation."
- Ban Ki-Moon,
UN Secretary General As can be seen in this report, many countries in the world are acting fast to mitigate the likely climatic problems they might suffer from. They have made strong legislative decision towards implementing the newest technology available to fight climate change. Many countries have adopted biotechnology as their ultimate weapon in this race against time and have already started getting the results. But what we have to understand is this is a global problem and only a few countries cannot do much of a good while all the rest are neglecting the issue. Bangladesh, although being a low contributor to global warming, might be the first to encounter the destructions of nature. As discussed above, many EU countries have adopted biotechnology and profited both economically and environmentally. They have significantly lessened the GHG emission in the respective fields and the energy consumption graph in those sectors are also downwards. Agricultural sectors have recently been revolutionized by the introduction of biotechnology. Via crop adaptation, reduction of GHG, carbon sequestration, increased yield and virtually all sectors in agriculture they have both shown promise in acting against climate change and meeting their food demand. Within a few years they have already set a standard for other countries that are soon going to follow. From the developed countries perspective, it was a huge challenge to come up with a controversial idea (biotechnology) to reshape their already-established industries. But here too, they have shown the courage to lead the world in building a greener planet. It is very much expected now that within decades, their technology, being further refined, will show them light in the dark days ahead. The fact that daunts countries like us to adopt biotechnology is the risk that is associated with it. Being economically insolvent, we cannot that much afford to gamble with our industries. That is why the traditional industries and agricultural systems are still a great threat to climate. But the adoption of bio-based economy can be even more economical, as shown by the example of Canada. So both technically and economically, biotechnology has proved its user-friendliness.

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We all understand the threats of climate change to our country. But it is high time that we react quickly and join with the forces battling against this monstrous problem. For safeguarding the future of our next generations, climate change must be faced seriously and biotechnology just shows the required potential.

3.2 Constraints
There are a lot of technical and legislative constraints towards building a bio-based economy. The biggest truth is the lack of government initiative to uplift biotechnology. The crop and forest biotechnology policy has only been finalized in 201040. The National Institute of Biotechnology has not been able to show the promise that is expected of it. The following difficulties make the matter worse: Inadequate financial resources to carry research programs. Inadequate number of qualified researchers and technicians in the institutions. Unappealing salary and incentives for researchers and technicians. Weak coordination and networking among the research institutes and universities involved in biotechnology research. Inadequate fellowship program for higher education and research Unavailability of databases of scientific community and recent progress on Biotechnology research and development in the country Inappropriate purchasing mechanisms and customs licenses consistent with the nature of biotechnology products. The majority of biotechnology samples require rapid and environmentally controlled transport. Inadequate private sector investment for promotion of biotechnology research and business. Difficulties in transferring technologies to the users due to inadequate infrastructure and support services. Time needed to develop biotechnology products is long.

3.3 Recommendations
Bangladesh needs a clear policy, institutional development and funding for the application of biotechnology to solve the problems in agriculture, industry and environment. Integration of molecular and cellular biology with conventional breeding technologies can be used for the development of new and improved crop varieties The recommended action plan also includes-

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Provide appropriate environment to encourage research and investment in the field of biotechnology. Use of biotechnology to achieve sustainable agricultural development, food security and safety. Develop infrastructure and human resource development on biotechnology. Strengthen the public awareness programme on the recent development of biotechnology. 3 species (Heritiera fomes, Sonnerata apetala and Avicennia officinalis) are suitable for mangrove forestation in the coastal zone of Bangladesh. Conduct extensive research on these species and try to transfer their resistance gene to other fast growing plants to confer and strengthen the coastal shield. The giant tiger prawn P. monodon, Indian White Shrimp (P. indicus) and Western White Shrimp (P. vannamei) are very much salinity-tolerant. So their genes should be looked up for and should be tried for transferring to other species of shrimp. As a result, the huge shrimp business in the coastal regions can be saved by conferring salinity-resistance. Finding cure of the massive top-dying disease of sundari tree via biotechnology. This will provide greater shelter of sundarbans and its flora and fauna. Introduce the newly-identified Bacillus FS-1 in the tannery industries. Build database of endangered species and proper biotechnological approach to safeguard their existence.

4. Conclusion
Biotechnology in Bangladesh is still in its dormancy, although Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission had a program titled Genetic improvement of industrial microorganisms as early as 1970's. Modern Biotechnology (rDNA technology) is still in its initial stage in Bangladesh. Yet, Bangladesh holds a great possibility in playing a vital role against climate change. We have a rich genetic resource of plants, animals and microbes. The necessary policies, though late, have been formulated. There are a good number of graduate and non-graduate students and young scientists who will soon fill the gap of experts needed for these techniques. A number of universities are now teaching biotechnology and some very enthusiastic and talented new researchers are being produced there. These universities are also pioneering in different sectors of biotechnology. Salinity-tolerant, drought-tolerant, water-stress-tolerant crop species are being worked on here and these are the exact tools we need to combat the impacts of climate change. The whole world is working together in this issue. So, all the resources are now available for industrial and agricultural application. Bangladesh has already been successful in sequencing the jute genome. This can just be the large-scale-boost that is needed to uplift our position in pioneering biotechnology research in different environmental sectors.

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For hundreds of years the people and the natural world of Bangladesh have sustained different natural calamities. So, with the aid of biotechnology, this country definitely holds the potential to find good enough solutions for the upcoming climatic problems and build a green planet livable for the upcoming generations.

5. Reference:
1. Working group 1, IPCC: Climate Change 2007 2. Stern Review on the economics of climate change, HM Treasury, 2006 3. Speech by Jack Wilkinson, President IFAP February 2008 http://www.ifap.org/en/publications/documents/Finland-Speech.pdf 4. Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan, 2009 5. Climate Change and Strategic Adaptation Provisions for Coastal Bangladesh, National Seminar on Mangrove for Sustainable Livelihood & Adaptation to Climate Change (08) 6. Global impact of biotech crops: economic and environmental effects 1996-2007 Barfoot, P. and Brookes, G.(2009) www.pgeconomics.co.uk 7. www.tradingeconomics.com 8. www.indexmundi.com 9. Conservation Tillage and Plant Biotechnology: How New Technologies Can Improve the Environment By Reducing the Need to Plow Richard Fawcett, Dan Towery, Conservation Technology Information Center 10. GM Crops:global socio-economic and environmental impacts 1996-2007, Barfoot P. and Brookes, G (2009) 11. Danesh, Man, Masao FORESTS TO CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION: CDM in Bangladesh 12. Biotechnology: A Guide To Genetic Engineering. Wm. C. Brown Publishers, Inc., 1993 13. http://www.arcadiabio.com/ 14. www.tradingeconomics.com 15. http://www.wwrgroup.com/pages/FirstApprovedBioFertilizerinBangladesh.php 16. www.trust.org 17. www.sciencemag.org vol 321 5 September 2008, Richard Stone 18. Bt Brinjal: Introducing Genetically Modified Brinjal (Eggplant/Aubergine) in Bangladesh: Meherunnahar and paul 19. Life Cycle Assessment Supports Cold-Wash Enzymes International Journal for Applied Science (2005) 20. http://bio4eu.jrc.ec.europa.eu/documents/Bio4EUTask2Annexindustrialproduction.pdf , p.84 21. OECD, The Application of Biotechnology to Industrial Sustainability, 2001 22. Novozymes 23. OECD, Biotechnology for clean industrial products and processes, 1998. 24. EuropaBio factsheet Naturally cleaner cotton, http://www.europabio.org/documents/COTTON.pdf

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25. GUA Gesellschaft fr umfassende Analysen, The Contribution of Plastic Products to Resource Efficiency, Vienna, 2005 26. http://bio4eu.jrc.ec.europa.eu/documents/Bio4EUTask2Annexindustrialproduction.pdf , p.145 27. OECD, The Application of Biotechnology to Industrial Sustainability, 2001. 28. Environmental Assessment of Enzyme Assisted Processing in Pulp and Paper Industry Int J LCA 13 (2) 124 132 (2008) 29. Brew project (under the European Commissions GROWTH Programme) - Medium and long-term opportunities and risks of the biotechnological production of bulks chemicals from renewable sources 30. http://ies.jrc.ec.europa.eu/WTW.html 31. McKinsey; Eucar/Concawe/JRC well-to-wheels study, 2003, 2005 32. Oxenbll and Steffen Ernst. Environment as a new perspective on the use of enzymes in the food industry. Food Science and Technology, vol 22 (4), 2008. 33. Per H Nielsen. Environmental assessment of enzyme application in the tanning industry. Leather International (August/September 2006) 34. FP6-NMP2 505899-Sophied- Activity report-2008 35. Biotechnology and development: challenges and opportunities for Asia By Sachin Chaturvedi 36. F. Sharmin. and M. Rahman Isolation and Characterization of Protease Producing Bacillus strain FS-1. Agricultural Engineering International: the CIGR Ejournal. Manuscript FP 06 009. Vol. IX. April, 2007 37. Biological and Biotechnology Solutions to Climate Change, BIOCAP CANADA Foundation 38. Statistics Canada, CANSIM Table 379-0025 & 379-0027: Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at basic prices, by NAICS, Geography = Provinces & Canada (for 0025 and 0027), Year = 2007; Seasonal adjustment = Seasonally adjusted at annual rates; Prices = Chained 2002 dollars. 39. Measuring the bio-based economy: A Canadian perspective, William Pellerin, D. Wayne Taylor. Journal of Industrial Biotechnology. December 1, 2008, 4(4): 363-366. doi:10.1089/ind.2008.4.363. 40.Crop biotech update, ISAAA International Service for the Acquisition of Agribiotech Applications. 41. Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) www.brri.gov.bd 42. http://www.brri.gov.bd/success_stories/index.htm 43. Bangladesh Rice Research Institute Research Achievement 2007-08, M A Salam

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