Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has urged people across Bangladesh to work together to protect wildlife and preserve the country’s natural environment, saying environmental conservation should be a shared responsibility between the government and the public.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Environment Fair and the National Tree Plantation Campaign at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre on Thursday, the prime minister said, “Bangladesh should become a safe home for every form of life.”
He warned that biodiversity is facing increasing pressure from rapid population growth, climate change, unplanned urban development, deforestation and the loss of rivers and wetlands.
According to the Prime Minister, these challenges are damaging the habitats of wildlife as well as aquatic plants and animals, threatening the country’s ecological balance.
Tarique Rahman said, "Protecting ecosystems is essential not only for wildlife but also for human well-being. He stressed that a healthy environment cannot be achieved without safeguarding all living creatures.”
He also appealed to the public to treat animals with care, urging people not to be cruel to wildlife or domestic animals such as dogs and cats.
He said lasting environmental protection would only be possible through active public participation alongside government initiatives.
Beginning his address with a verse from the Holy Quran, the PM said, "Nature has been created for the benefit of humanity, while also placing a responsibility on people to protect rivers, forests, wildlife and all other elements of the natural world.”
He referred to scientific evidence showing that human health and environmental health are closely connected, describing the Environment Fair and Tree Fair as investments in a healthier and more sustainable future for both present and future generations.
The Prime Minister also called for stronger national efforts to address climate change, saying environmental conservation is no longer optional but essential for Bangladesh’s future.
He mentioned, "The government has adopted a long-term strategy to increase forest cover, restore ecological balance and expand tree planting across the country, while ensuring that newly planted saplings receive proper care.”
Encouraging wider public involvement, Tarique Rahman added, "Tree planting should become a nationwide social movement involving individuals, schools, businesses and local communities.”
He further added that protecting forests, biodiversity and wildlife would strengthen Bangladesh’s ability to cope with climate-related threats, including floods, cyclones, rising temperatures and increasing salinity.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to environmentally friendly policies and green development initiatives outlined in its election manifesto. He said economic growth and environmental protection must progress together, as sustainable development depends on the responsible management of natural resources.
He also highlighted the importance of raising environmental awareness among younger generations and encouraging greater participation in climate action.
During the programme, the Prime Minister presented the National Environment Award 2025, the National Wildlife Conservation Award 2026 and the National Tree Plantation Award 2025. He also distributed profit-sharing cheques to leading beneficiaries of the Social Forestry Programme.
The event was attended by Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo; State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shaikh Faridul Islam; Prime Minister’s Special Assistant Saimum Parvez; and other senior officials.
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