2,000 Nipa palm seedlings planted along Sitakunda coast
The programme is supported by Coastal Forest Division, Chattogram
The students of Asian University for Women in Chattogram have planted 2,000 seedlings of Golpata tree, or Nipa palm, along the Guliakhali sea beach on the Sitakunda coast.
The initiative is intended to help fight the adverse effects of climate change.
A total of 35 students on Thursday planted the seedlings along the beach as part of the "Green Bangle Project". Following the plantation, they also participated in a beach cleaning campaign.
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Leader of the Green Bangle project, Associate Professor and researcher at the Asian University for Women, P Mose Selvalumar, said the deep roots of Nipa palm trees serve as a strong anchor for the soil, effectively minimising erosion caused by tidal waters. Moreover, the high carbon absorption capabilities of the tree play a crucial role in combating climate change.
Selvalumar further said the 2,000 seedlings have been planted along the Guliakhali beach, in collaboration with the Coastal Forest Division, on an experimental basis. There are plans to expand the plantation programme in the future.
Juice extracted from Nipa palm trees is used in producing molasses, while its leaves are crafted into a variety of handmade items.
Nuzaba Tasannum, assistant director for the Green Bangle project, said the tree plantation initiative aims to empower local women economically while fostering environmental sustainability.
The tree plantation programme is funded by the Swiss Philanthropy Foundation and implemented by Asian University for Women in association with the non-profit organisation Young Power in Social Action and the Coastal Forest Division, Chattogram.
The Green Bangle project, spearheaded by students of the Asian University for Women, aims to address climate change issues in Chattogram. Beyond tree planting initiatives, the project encompasses training programmes for local women.
