DHAKA, Bangladesh, May 15, (V7N) – In a move to safeguard the environment, ecosystem, and biodiversity of the country, the government has imposed a ban on the plantation, collection, and sale of eucalyptus and akashmoni saplings.

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change issued an official notification to this effect today.

According to the notification, aligning with national and international commitments, all governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as individuals, are now mandated to replace these invasive species in afforestation programs with native fruit-bearing, timber, and medicinal plants.

The notification highlights that these invasive species consume excessive amounts of groundwater, leading to the depletion of soil moisture and severely impacting dry and seasonal climate zones.

Furthermore, the leaves of eucalyptus and akashmoni trees contain toxins that, upon falling to the ground, render the surrounding soil infertile and unsuitable for other plant species. These trees also pose a significant threat to local biodiversity, as many native plants, insects, and birds are unable to find shelter or sustenance in them.

The Ministry has urged all stakeholders to actively promote and participate in the plantation of native species to effectively protect the environment and biodiversity of Bangladesh.

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