Dhaka: State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shaikh Faridul Islam announced today that the government plans to plant 2 crore Keora trees on 4,400 acres of coastal land by December this year. The announcement was made during the concluding session of a two-day programme at Jahangirnagar University, focusing on sustainable plastic waste management practices.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Shaikh Faridul Islam highlighted the government’s achievements, including reclaiming over 2,300 acres of forest land and planting 2.85 crore trees. The government is also set to implement a carbon credit programme for the first time under this initiative. The event, titled “Sustainable Plastic Waste Management Practices in Jahangirnagar University (Source Segregation Campaign),” was organized by Jahangirnagar University Central Students’ Union and NextEra for Environment, Equity and Rights.
The state minister addressed the threat posed by plastic pollution, microplastic pollution, and lead contamination to both the environment and public health. He mentioned the newly published Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy, which mandates manufacturers of plastic products to manage the waste generated from their products. Additionally, a new law is in the works to create a lead-free Bangladesh.
Shaikh Faridul Islam emphasized that enacting laws and policies is insufficient without ensuring source-based waste segregation and identifying sources of pollution. He called for the implementation of the “Four Rs” in plastic waste management-Reject, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle-and urged the use of biodegradable bags where possible. He encouraged students to promote environmental awareness and lead initiatives in plastic waste management within their communities.
The state minister also urged Jahangirnagar University authorities to eliminate single-use plastics on campus, setting an example for other universities. JU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan, who presided over the event, stressed the importance of effective initiatives and government cooperation in reducing noise and air pollution, protecting water bodies, and developing waste management systems on the campus.
The event was attended by JU Pro-VCs, the Treasurer, the Director of the Students-Teacher Counselling Centre, a UNIDO Bangladesh delegation, student leaders, and general students.