25 crore trees to be planted in five years, local species to get priority: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today announced a government programme to plant 25 crore trees across Bangladesh over the next five years, with priority to be given to local and environment-friendly species.

He also said the government has taken a strict position against deforestation, hill cutting, destruction of mangroves and killing of wildlife.

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The prime minister made the remarks while addressing a programme at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Dhaka to mark World Environment Day, the Environment Fair, the National Tree Plantation Campaign and the Tree Fair 2026.

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Photo: PMO

"The current government has taken a programme to plant 25 crore new trees in five years. But the purpose will not be served just by planting trees as we wish," he said.

He stressed the need to determine which species are suitable for different environments, soils and weather conditions, and said local species, including medicinal, fruit-bearing, bamboo, forest and endangered trees, should get priority. He also called for research into the environmental suitability of fast-growing species such as eucalyptus and akashmoni.

Tarique said afforestation should focus not only on planting trees but also on preserving ecosystems that can support birds, animals and insects. He also emphasised protecting old trees that have become part of local ecosystems.

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Photo: PMO

The prime minister said protecting rivers is essential for agriculture, food security and water security.

"Human society must give importance to soil, rivers, forests, biodiversity and natural resources for its own interest. If we cannot save our rivers, then it will not be possible to ensure agriculture, food security or water security," he said.

He said the government has started implementing a programme to excavate and re-excavate 20,000 kilometres of rivers and canals across the country to improve irrigation and strengthen climate resilience.

Calling climate change an everyday reality, Tarique said cyclones, floods, droughts, heatwaves, river erosion and salinity were affecting agriculture, health, the economy and public life.

He said the government has also begun work to reduce plastic waste and promote organic fertiliser, recycling, waste-to-energy projects and the national implementation of the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle (3Rs) policy.

The prime minister said protecting the environment requires public participation.

"Do not be cruel to wildlife. Do not behave inhumanely with dogs and cats. For the safety of human society itself, citizen initiatives are also necessary, along with the government, to ensure the safety of every living being and every life," he said.