As Bangladesh moves forward with an ambitious plan to expand its green cover, experts are urging the government to prioritise native tree species to restore biodiversity and ensure long-term ecological balance.
When the government announced a large-scale tree plantation programme, concerns resurfaced over past afforestation practices. Research shows that in the 1980s, social forestry initiatives—introduced on the advice of the Asian Development Bank—promoted eucalyptus and acacia plantations across the country, a move experts now describe as environmentally harmful.
“Bangladesh has many fast-growing native species. Whenever a new plan is made, it must be based on scientific knowledge and data. Only then will these 250 million tree plantations benefit the country,” said Dr. Mohammad Jasim Uddin, a professor at the University of Dhaka.
The government has since banned the use of such foreign species in afforestation programmes.
According to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the “National Green Mission” aims to plant 250 million trees over the next five years. The programme will focus on restoring degraded forest lands in Cox’s Bazar, Bandarban, Mymensingh, and Sylhet.
Environment Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo said, “Our goal is to cover the hills with greenery by planting 13 million saplings in government degraded forest lands in Cox’s Bazar, Bandarban, Mymensingh, Sylhet, and other districts. We are preparing to begin nationwide plantation from mid-May.”
Experts say foreign species like eucalyptus and acacia can damage ecosystems when planted outside their natural habitats. These trees consume large amounts of water, release chemicals into the soil and create monocultures that displace native plants and wildlife.
“When exotic trees were planted, a large part of endangered and specialised wildlife began to disappear,” said Ashiqur Haman Sami.
Conservationist Dr Mohammad Ali Reza Khan said tree selection should prioritise species that support pollinators and wildlife, including birds, butterflies and small mammals.
Researchers recommend native species such as jackfruit, mango, garjan, koroi and hijol, which can provide timber, fruit and fuel while supporting ecosystems. Studies suggest that mixed plantations of native trees can increase pollinator presence by up to 40% and improve soil stability.
Analysts also stress the importance of community involvement, including village nurseries and roadside planting along more than 21,000 km (13,000 miles) of highways, to ensure long-term maintenance.
Government data shows that nearly 300,000 acres of forest land—about 54% of protected areas—are currently under illegal occupation. Experts say that reclaiming this land is crucial for the success of the plantation programme.
They add that if these lands are recovered and scientific planning is ensured, the initiative could significantly improve Bangladesh’s green cover and biodiversity.
