Grameen Bank launches drive to plant 1 crore trees

Grameen Bank has launched a nationwide initiative to plant 1 crore trees for its golden jubilee, aiming to combat climate change and protect the environment.

The tree-plantation programme was inaugurated at the bank's Mahipur, Kalapara Branch in Patuakhali on 15 August, according to a press release inviting members to join.

Grameen Bank Chairman Professor Dr Abdul Hannan Chowdhury inaugurated the programme as chief guest.

Grameen Bank Managing Director Sarder Akhter Hamed, Company Secretary Abdus Sabur Md Baquis, the zonal manager, the area manager and local dignitaries also attended the event.

"Fifty years ago, Grameen Bank started a war against poverty; today, we have entered a war against climate change," Professor Dr Abdul Hannan Chowdhury said.

"Planting 1 crore trees is not just a number; it is our green gift to future generations on our golden jubilee," he added.

Sarder Akhter Hamed said Grameen Bank's half-century journey had centred on fulfilling people's aspirations.

"Through the tree-plantation programme, we want to make the country climate-resilient while ensuring nutritional and economic security for the families of each of our members," he said.

Fruit, timber and medicinal saplings are being distributed among members through the bank's 2,528 branches across the country, inviting them to take part in the plantation drive.

The bank said it would continue planting saplings at homesteads and in open spaces throughout the year, inviting continued participation in the initiative.

The initiative that later became Grameen Bank began as a small microcredit project in Jobra village, Chattogram, in 1976.

It sought to alleviate poverty and social inequality by expanding women's economic participation and access to finance.

The institution said that, despite numerous challenges over the past five decades, it had developed into a trusted financial institution serving millions of people.