Photo: BSS

KHULNA, July 26, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Environment, Forest and 
Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam today said planting trees alone is not 
enough, stressing that proper care and maintenance of saplings are equally 
essential to maximize their environmental benefits.

He called for making tree plantation a regular practice in both social and 
family life, adding that suitable tree species should be selected based on 
the environmental and ecological characteristics of each district and region. 

The state minister made the remarks while addressing a discussion on tree 
plantation as the chief guest at the Shaheed Altaf Auditorium of the Khulna 
City Corporation (KCC) on Sunday.

He urged authorities and citizens to continue tree plantation initiatives 
throughout the year instead of limiting them to the monsoon season, saying 
large-scale afforestation plays a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and 
maintaining ecological balance.

Sheikh Faridul also announced that no brick kiln would be allowed to produce 
bricks by burning wood.

He said all deputy commissioners and upazila nirbahi officers (UNOs) across 
the country have been instructed to take necessary measures in this regard. 

He also emphasized expanding the use of environmentally friendly block 
technology as an alternative to traditional bricks.

The meeting was chaired by KCC Administrator Nazrul Islam Manju while 
Chairman of Khulna WASA and freedom fighter Mohammad Moniruzzaman attended it 
as special guest.

Among others, KCC Secretary Md Reza Rashid, Chief Engineer Mashiyuzzaman 
Khan, officials from various departments, representatives from all 31 wards, 
and journalists were present at the event.

Later, the state minister planted a tree at Shaheed Hadis Park in Khulna.