UNEP Recognizes Bangladesh's Green Campaign

Bangladesh's youth-led environmental initiative, Mission Green Bangladesh, has received international recognition from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) for its nationwide "Tree Plantation in 64 Districts" campaign.

UNEP acknowledged the initiative as part of its World Environment Day celebrations, citing its contribution to environmental conservation and climate change mitigation.

The recognition marks a significant milestone for Mission Green Bangladesh and highlights Bangladesh's growing role in addressing climate challenges and promoting sustainable development.

The campaign mobilised young volunteers across all 64 districts to plant and nurture native tree species while raising public awareness about climate change and environmental protection.

Organisers said the recognition demonstrates that grassroots environmental movements in Bangladesh can achieve global impact.

The initiative expressed gratitude to its partner organisations, including the Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association (BELA), Centre for Climate Change and Environmental Research (C3ER)-BRAC University, Waterkeepers Bangladesh, Centre for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS), Society for Asian Circular Innovation Network, Swapnopuri Welfare Organization, Project Management Institute (PMI), and Sustainable Research and Consultancy Ltd. (SRCL).

Mission Green Bangladesh Executive Director Ahsan Rony said the recognition carries greater responsibility.

"This UNEP recognition has increased our responsibility. Our journey to build a sustainable green Bangladesh will continue. Without the tireless efforts of thousands of volunteers, citizens and partner organisations nationwide, this achievement would not have been possible. This success belongs to everyone," he said.

On June 5, marking World Environment Day, more than 4,000 volunteers from over 100 national and local environmental organisations took part in tree plantation drives, human chains and awareness programmes across all 64 districts.

The campaign also included leaflet distribution, public awareness activities and citizen engagement highlighting air pollution, climate change and environmental conservation.

Organisers said the initiative has evolved into a year-round movement focused on planting and caring for saplings.

Trees were planted at schools, colleges, religious institutions, households and other suitable locations, while fruit and forest saplings were distributed free of charge to underprivileged families as part of the campaign's community-based environmental efforts.