Tree plantation programmes at sugar mills and the planting of sugarcane for the 2026-27 season have begun to help protect the environment, preserve biodiversity and strengthen the agriculture-based regional economy.
The programme was inaugurated on Sunday at Kanta Agricultural Farm in Setabganj through the planting of improved sugarcane varieties and different species of trees, as part of the government’s initiative to plant 250 million saplings.
Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industries Corporation (BSFIC) Chairman Md Shamsuzzaman Suruj inaugurated the programme. Members of the BSFIC board and senior officials were present.
A target has been set to plant 1,000 trees at each sugar mill, totalling 15,000 trees, during the 2026-27 fiscal year.
Speaking at the event, the BSFIC chairman said sugarcane plays an important role in maintaining environmental balance due to its high carbon absorption capacity. As the crop remains in the soil for an extended period, it also helps reduce soil erosion and environmental risks.
He said sugarcane by-products, including bagasse and molasses, can be used to produce renewable energy and organic fertiliser, contributing to the development of a green economy.
He also stressed large-scale tree plantation in hills, cities, villages, roads, educational institutions, coastal areas, char lands and government forests to mitigate climate change impacts and reduce risks from floods and droughts.
Speakers said combining tree plantation with sustainable agriculture could contribute to greening the country, creating rural employment and strengthening local agricultural economies.
