United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) president-designate Alok Sharma has highlighted the importance of the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest spread over neighboring nations India and Bangladesh, saying it plays a significant role as a carbon sink.

On a trip to Bangladesh, the India-born British politician traveled to the Sundarbans and saw how the natural defenses of the mangrove forest protect villages from high wind speed and storm surges, The Daily Star reported.

"I learned more about how this vital carbon sink protects local communities from cyclones and storm surges. Nature is the key to keep 1.5C in reach. Preserving it must be a priority for all," he said.

Sharma welcomed Bangladesh's climate leadership and ambition ahead of COP26, or 26th Conference of Parties, to be held in Glasgow, UK, in November.

Bangladesh signaled a transition from coal and submitted an ambitious climate plan during the COP26 president's visit.

"The next decade will be 'make or break' for our planet, and effective global collaboration will be vital to tackling the pressing challenges the world faces. So I am delighted to have witnessed the UK-Bangladeshi climate partnership in action, and heard such positive ambition from my Bangladeshi friends," he said.

"I am inspired by the innovative work I have seen here to address some of the worst effects of climate change, and hope that Bangladesh will continue to lead by example ahead of COP26 which is our best hope of building a brighter future."

The Sundarbans forest covers an area of around 10,000 square km and is home to the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger.
 
The region has garnered international attention for man-animal conflicts as well as its residents’ daily battle against climate change.
 
Besides the Royal Bengal Tiger, the region is also known for Monitor Lizard, Estuarine Crocodile, Olive Ridley Turtle and other fauna.
 
(SAM)