Architects have underscored the urgent need to protect Cox’s Bazar’s fragile ecosystem at the ‘Discourse by the Shore’ – Architects’ Summit 2025, held at the Mermaid Beach Resort on Pechardwip along the Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf Marine Drive.
The two-day event united over 60 architects to explore sustainable tourism, climate-resilient design, and architecture’s role in safeguarding the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Curated by award-winning architect Marina Tabassum, the summit emphasised balancing tourism growth with environmental preservation.
“Cox’s Bazar faces mounting environmental challenges, yet meaningful tourist experiences are lacking,” Tabassum noted, advocating for designs that respect Bangladesh’s unique context. Discussions highlighted eco-tourism’s potential to protect the region’s pristine beaches and empower local communities while addressing climate change threats.
Ehsan Khan, architect of Cox’s Bazar’s master plan, shared strategies for sustainable development, stressing the need to preserve the area’s biodiversity while fostering economic growth.
A panel discussion on ‘Eco-Tourism and Sustainability in Architectural Practice’ featured Tabassum, Khondaker Hasibul Kabir, Khan, and other experts, sparking innovative ideas for climate-responsive architecture.
The summit included an exhibition of contemporary works by leading Bangladeshi architects, spotlighting their contributions to the nation’s architectural landscape.
The event, organised by a team including Saiqa Iqbal Meghna, Didarul Islam Bhuiyan, Suvro Sovon Chowdhury, Rashed Hasan Chowdhury, Khandaker Ashifuzzaman Rajan, and Tabassum Zarin Tithi, fostered collaboration among architects, environmentalists, and policymakers.
AM Ziauddin Khan Pablo, architect and Chairman of Mermaid Eco Tourism Ltd, emphasised architects’ responsibility: “We must design for a sustainable future, integrating innovation with conservation.” Anisul Haque Chowdhury Shohag, Managing Director of Mermaid Beach Resort, added, “The insights shared by these architects are vital for Cox’s Bazar’s sustainable growth.”
The summit positioned Bangladesh as a potential global leader in eco-tourism and sustainable design. By fostering dialogue on climate-resilient architecture, it laid the groundwork for future collaborations to protect Cox’s Bazar’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
As the region faces growing tourism and environmental pressures, the event’s outcomes promise to shape a resilient, sustainable future for one of Bangladesh’s most iconic destinations.
Source: UNB