By Mamun Kabir
There is no alternative to planting trees to protect ourselves from the devastating impacts of climate change. Trees not only cool the environment but also purify the air, prevent soil erosion, and play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity. Widespread tree plantation is a sustainable solution to tackle the climate crisis.
Although reliable and precise official or international data on forest cover in Bangladesh immediately after independence in 1972 is limited, research and earlier reviews by the Forest Department indicate that about 20% of the country’s total land area was covered by forests at that time—approximately 2.7 to 2.8 million hectares. Natural forests in Sundarbans, the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Madhupur tract, and Sylhet regions were comparatively well preserved then. However, soon after independence, rapid population growth, agricultural expansion, infrastructure development, and human-induced activities such as land grabbing and deforestation led to a rapid decline in forest areas.
Forest cover in Bangladesh has been continuously decreasing over the past few decades. According to the Global Forest Resources Assessment published by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, about 17.6% of the country’s land area was forested in 1990, approximately 2.6 million hectares. Due to deforestation, population pressure, and poor management, this figure fell to 14.5% by 2020. It is estimated that by 2025, forest cover will further reduce to around 14%, although updated official data is not yet available. This information serves as a warning that, without effective initiatives now, negative impacts on biodiversity and climate will intensify. Therefore, large-scale tree plantations and forest conservation are urgent necessities.
The influx of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar to Bangladesh in 2017 has caused extensive and long-term damage to the forests in Ukhia and Teknaf upazilas of Cox’s Bazar district. To establish refugee camps, a large number of trees were cut down from local forest areas, leading to widespread deforestation and a rapid decline in green cover. According to reports from the United Nations and various environmental organizations, forest cover in this region has decreased by approximately 30-40% within just a few years (IUCN, 2019). The tree felling has not only reduced environmental cooling but also adversely affected soil health and atmospheric balance. As forest cover diminished, soil retention capacity declined, increasing the risk of soil erosion and floods during heavy rainfall, which in turn has caused landslides in hilly areas and waterlogging in low-lying regions. According to surveys conducted by the Bangladesh Forest Department and local assessments, the rate of soil erosion in many parts of Ukhia and Teknaf has doubled over the past five years (Forest Department Survey, 2021).
The climate and environmental impacts are also profound. Due to deforestation, summer temperatures have risen and air pollution has increased, raising health risks for the local population. The habitats of wildlife such as birds and forest animals have shrunk, leading to a loss of biodiversity and destabilizing the local ecosystem. The socio-economic effects of forest loss are also evident; local people have been deprived of easy access to timber, bamboo, and other forest resources, negatively impacting their livelihoods and economy. Moreover, tensions and conflicts over forest resources between refugees and host communities have increased (BRAC, 2020).
There are several challenges in restoration and conservation efforts. The lack of adequate land, financial constraints, and insufficient involvement of local communities hinder forest recovery. Despite initiatives by international organizations and the government, effective coordination and sufficient funding are lacking, limiting the implementation of forest conservation plans. Community-based afforestation, awareness raising, and sustainable management are urgently needed to protect these forests and improve environmental conditions and people’s quality of life (UNDP Report, 2022).
We can say, the 2017 Rohingya refugee crisis has severely damaged the forests of Ukhia and Teknaf in Cox’s Bazar, negatively affecting the environment, biodiversity, and local livelihoods. Immediate and effective measures are essential for the sustainable restoration and conservation of these forest areas.
Trees act as a natural and sustainable solution to mitigate climate change. They absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and store it in their wood, leaves, and roots—a process known as “carbon sequestration.” Through this, trees reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases and help control global warming. Simultaneously, trees provide shade and release water vapor, which helps cool the environment and maintain soil moisture—crucial for combating high temperatures. Maintaining forest areas also reduces the risk of climate-induced disasters such as cyclones, droughts, floods, and landslides, which is especially important for climate-sensitive countries like Bangladesh.
Moreover, trees support the water cycle, protect groundwater levels, and reduce air pollution. Forests are habitats for biodiversity, forming an interconnected and balanced ecological system. A healthy forest environment not only reduces the effects of climate change but also supports long-term food security, health, and sustainable livelihoods. Hence, it is the responsibility of policymakers and each one of us to engage in tree planting and forest conservation to ensure a livable planet for future generations.
Due to climate change, coastal areas of Bangladesh—such as Satkhira, Khulna, Barguna, Patuakhali, and parts of Bhola—are facing severe storms, floods, salinity intrusion, soil erosion, and drought. Selecting resilient tree species is vital to survive these harsh conditions. For coastal areas, trees must be chosen based on their salt tolerance, fast growth, soil-binding ability, and resistance to storms and cyclones.
One of the most suitable trees for coastal areas is Bain (Avicennia spp.), a key component of mangrove forests. Bain trees grow well in saline water and protect coastal lands from floods and tidal surges, while also providing natural habitats for marine life like fish and crabs.
Another important species is Geowa (Excoecaria agallocha), which adapts easily to saline environments and effectively protects riverbanks and reduces storm damage. Planting this tree near coastal embankments or riverbanks helps prevent soil erosion.
Goran (Ceriops decandra) is a fast-growing mangrove species that thrives in saline and waterlogged areas. It helps conserve soil on embankments and chars (river islands) and creates natural barriers.
Sonaloo (Cassia fistula), Hijol (Barringtonia acutangula), and Korch (Pongamia pinnata) are moderately salt-tolerant trees suitable for planting along coastal canals, school compounds, or roadsides. These trees cool the environment, provide shade, and create a more livable atmosphere.
Among fruit and timber trees, neem, babla, jackfruit, coconut, and betel nut are particularly suitable but must be salt-tolerant varieties. These trees not only benefit the environment but also economically support coastal families. Bamboo is also highly effective in coastal regions, being fast-growing, storm-resistant, and useful for controlling soil erosion and acting as a natural barrier.
Some special techniques must be followed for planting trees. For example, raising the planting site on mounds helps protect saplings from waterlogging. Proper drainage must be ensured to avoid water stagnation. Involving local communities in community-based afforestation increases awareness, responsibility, and ensures effective maintenance.
Planting trees in climate-vulnerable coastal areas not only protects the environment but also ensures social and economic stability. Proper species selection and sustainable forest management can make the lives, livelihoods, and biodiversity of coastal communities safer and more resilient.
The best time for planting trees in Bangladesh is during the monsoon months of Ashar and Srabon (June to August). This period, known as the rainy season, features abundant rainfall and moist, soft soil that facilitates root establishment.
The rainy season is considered the ideal time for planting because natural rainfall reduces the need for irrigation. The naturally moist and soft soil allows saplings to be planted easily and helps their roots spread quickly. Rainfall during this time creates a favorable environment for early growth, which is critical for the healthy development of young plants. Additionally, cloudy skies reduce the intensity of direct sunlight, protecting new saplings from heat stress. For these reasons, planting during the rainy season greatly increases survival rates and promotes healthy growth. Thus, planting trees during the monsoon is the best strategy for successful afforestation to protect the environment and combat climate change.
However, some exceptions exist. Fruit trees such as mango, jackfruit, and lychee are better planted in spring (February–March). In areas with low rainfall or drought-prone zones, ensuring proper irrigation while planting is essential.
Environmental protection is the responsibility of each one of us. This monsoon, let us each plant at least one tree—for ourselves, for future generations, and the Earth.
Author: Mamun Kabir, Environmental Activist