Khulna: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) Board of Directors Chairman Anwar Aldin today inaugurated a yearlong tree plantation programme in Khulna, organized by the local socio-cultural organization Haridashkati Swadhinata Sangsad. During the event, held at the Haridashkati Football Ground in Haridhali Union of Paikgacha Upazila, Aldin emphasized the necessity of transforming tree plantation into a social movement, highlighting the critical role trees play in the ecosystem and in human life.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Aldin underscored the economic contribution of a 50-year-old tree, estimated at approximately $188,000, due to its provision of shade, comfort, beauty, and oxygen. He further noted that a fully grown tree can supply enough oxygen for ten adults, stressing the importance of trees in maintaining environmental balance amid challenges such as climate change, deforestation, and unplanned development.
The event was chaired by Sheikh Al-Ehsan, President of Haridashkati Swadhinata Sangsad, and moderated by its General Secretary Sheikh Shahriar Selim. Various advisers, UP members, committee members, and club members were also in attendance, contributing to the programme's community-driven approach.
Aldin highlighted that tree plantation is considered a noble act in Islam, known as Sadaqah Jariyah, and emphasized the importance of protecting forests and biodiversity to secure the future. He called for widespread participation in tree planting activities to mitigate the harmful effects of climate change and urbanization, advocating for the planting of native, fruit-bearing, timber, and medicinal trees in various locations.
The chairman also addressed the importance of conserving indigenous species alongside tree plantation efforts, urging every household to plant more trees. He pointed out the historic initiative of planting five crore (50 million) trees, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, as a transformative effort to protect Bangladesh's environment.
Sheikh Al-Ehsan echoed Aldin's sentiments, stating that Haridashkati Swadhinata Sangsad has been actively working with underprivileged communities. As part of the campaign, saplings will be distributed to students, and trees will be planted along roadsides and unused lands to enhance the resilience of the coastal southern region against climate change impacts.