DHAKA, June 20, 2022 (BSS) - Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Md Shahab Uddin today said the government is implementing afforestation program on a massive scale to prevent desertification and soil degradation.
"Work is underway to build a land degradation-neutral country by 2030 in line with sustainable development by preventing soil degradation," he said while addressing a seminar, organized by the Department of Environment (DoE), at its office here, marking the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2022.
Speaking as the chief guest, Shahab Uddin said the government, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, is implementing various projects and activities for prevention of deforestation, restoration of forests, creation of new forests, conservation of biodiversity, prevention of land erosion and protection of natural environment.
He said Bangladesh would be successful if the people plant trees at a higher rate as per their ability.
The environment minister said the effect of desertification is being seen in some areas of the northern region of Bangladesh.
"Therefore, it is necessary to take practical steps to prevent desertification and work towards its implementation. To prevent desertification and soil degradation, the land needs to be turned into fertile land to produce more food," he said.
This time, Shahab Uddin said, UNCCD's COP15 was held in Abidjan, the capital of Ivory Coast, to ensure the effectiveness of the land.
"I believe that in the light of this year's theme of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, concerted efforts to address the adverse effects of desertification and droughts have yielded positive results," he added.
Deputy Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Habibun Nahar, former Professor of Sher-E-Bangla Agriculture University Dr Abdul Hamid and Director of DoE's Dhaka Laboratory Dr Mu Sohrab Ali, among others, spoke at the meeting with DoE Director General Dr Abdul Hamid in the chair.
Chief Scientific Officer of Soil Resource Development Institute Dr Amir Jahid and Superintendent Engineer of Barind Multi-purpose Development Authority Md Abdul Latif presented separate keynote papers.
