By Shimul Biswas, from Singair, Manikgonj
The world’s nature and biodiversity are under serious threat today. Climate change, industrial pollution, excessive use of chemicals in the name of agricultural modernization, deforestation, encroachment, and filling up of canals and wetlands have created enormous pressure on the environment. As a result, biodiversity and food security as well as public health are at risk.
In this context, the Green Coalition Committee of Singair Upazila has been formed with the goal of protecting the natural environment, agricultural ecology, and biodiversity while advancing climate justice.
Facilitated by BARCIK, the committee involves environmentally conscious people from different professions, along with local organizations and institutions. The committee has already started activities on the ground. Its first initiative was a human chain demanding the re-excavation of the Nurani Ganga River in Singair. It also organized two separate tree plantation programs at the banks of Noyabari Ghoramara canal and Kasta canal, where more than 500 saplings of palm, date, medicinal, and other endangered tree species were planted.
Committee members believe that rivers, natural water bodies, and trees enhance environmental beauty and directly contribute to soil fertility, water conservation, air purification, and biodiversity protection. Natural water bodies sustain agriculture and ecosystems, while local tree species such as palm and date play significant roles in rural culture and ecological balance. Palm trees help to reduce lightning strikes, date trees contribute to the rural economy and traditions, and medicinal plants provide both eco-friendly solutions and sustainable healthcare options for future generations.
The initiatives undertaken by the Green Coalition Committee aim to restoring endangered local biodiversity, reestablish natural balance, ensure sustainable agroecology, and involve local people in eco-friendly activities.
The committee’s member secretary (a BARCIK representative) said,“We want farmers, workers, students, and people from every profession to join this environmental movement. The environment belongs to all. Therefore, protecting it is everyone’s responsibility.”
The Green Coalition Committee’s vision goes beyond tree planting. It has planned campaigns for the conservation of canals, ponds, and wetlands, conservation of local seeds, improvement of agricultural ecosystems, and awareness programs promoting eco-friendly livelihood.
Environmental protection cannot be achieved through a single initiative. It requires long-term, continuous planning with active participation of people from all stakes. The Green Coalition Committee is moving in that direction. Their efforts demonstrate that through collective action, it is possible to protect the environment, ecology, agricultural diversity, and food sovereignty.
This initiative is about conservation and it is a pledge to create a healthy, livable planet for future generations. Small steps like these can inspire positive change in society. If the movement continues consistently, Singair upazila could emerge as a model for sustainable agriculture and green environment conservation.
