KHULNA, July 26, (v7n) – State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam on Sunday said planting trees alone is not enough, stressing that proper care and maintenance of saplings are equally essential to maximise 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 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 across the country have been instructed to take necessary measures in this regard, and emphasised expanding the use of environmentally friendly block technology as an alternative to traditional bricks.

The meeting was chaired by KCC Administrator Nazrul Islam Manju, with Chairman of Khulna WASA and freedom fighter Mohammad Moniruzzaman attending 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.

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