DHAKA, Aug 9, 2026: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo has urged people to continue planting and caring for trees after the National Tree Fair 2026, stressing that the real work begins after the fair.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the fair at the Forest Bhaban in Agargaon on Sunday, he said every sapling purchased from the fair should be properly planted and regularly maintained.
The minister said collective participation by families, educational institutions, youth groups and communities could help Bangladesh achieve its target of increasing tree cover to 27 percent by 2035.
He said the tree fair was more than a platform for selling saplings, describing it as a nationwide initiative to promote environmental protection, greening and climate resilience.
The government has planned to plant 250 million trees over the next five years, alongside initiatives to create green jobs and expand nursery entrepreneurship. The minister stressed that planting trees alone is not enough; ensuring their survival through proper protection and care is essential.
The closing ceremony was attended by Bangladesh Climate Trust Managing Director Kazi Rawnakul Islam Tipu and Chief Conservator of Forests Md Amir Hossain Chowdhury, among others. Awards and certificates were also presented to individuals and organisations for outstanding contributions to tree planting, biodiversity conservation and related competitions.
