DUET holds tree plantation, climate discussion marking World Environment Day
Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology, Gazipur, marked World Environment Day 2026 on Sunday with a tree plantation programme and an open discussion on climate change, highlighting its commitment to environmental stewardship.
The university's Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Research organised the event to raise awareness about environmental conservation and emphasise the urgency of addressing the adverse impacts of climate change.
Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology Professor Dr Engineer Mohammad Iqbal attended the event as the chief guest.
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Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology, Professor Dr Md Arefin Kawsar, was present as a special guest, while Professor Dr Md Monowar Hossain, Director of the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Research, chaired the event.
The tree plantation began in the morning at Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmad Hall, where saplings of various species were planted.
Following the plantation, an open discussion titled "Climate Change: Today's Action, Tomorrow's Security" took place.
Speaking as chief guest, Professor Dr Engineer Mohammad Iqbal said, "We are observing World Environment Day at a time when climate change has emerged as one of the major challenges for human civilisation. Policy decisions alone are not enough to address the impacts of climate change. Awareness, responsibility and effective initiatives are also needed."
He noted that planting a tree is not merely placing a sapling in the soil, but also laying the foundation for clean air, a safe environment, and a liveable planet for future generations.
He urged all to pursue sustainable development through a balanced approach between technology and nature.
Professor Dr Engineer Mohammad Iqbal also noted that the government has placed special emphasis on environmental conservation, tree plantation, and climate-resilient development to build a green, clean, and sustainable Bangladesh.
"I believe educational institutions have a critical role in advancing this national initiative. Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology must lead in fostering future leadership, awareness, positive social change, and the movement to protect the environment," he said.
Speaking as a special guest, Professor Dr Md Arefin Kawsar emphasised the importance of environmentally friendly lifestyles, expanded greening, and climate-resilient infrastructure.
He also called on the younger generation to become more active and engaged in addressing the challenges of climate change.
Director of the Institute of Water and Environment Professor Dr Md Akramul Alam also spoke at the event.
In his concluding remarks, Director of the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Research, Professor Dr Md Monowar Hossain, stressed the need for ongoing tree planting and research-based initiatives to build a safe and sustainable world for future generations and to address the climate crisis.
He thanked all participants for their involvement in the programme.
Deans of various faculties, departmental heads, directors, provosts, office heads, teachers, students, officials, and employees of the university attended the tree-planting programme and the open discussion.
