Matin Sagor , Staff Reporter || There is no alternative to tree plantation to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change and maintain environmental balance, State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam said on Sunday.Speaking as the chief guest at a sapling distribution and tree plantation programme at Gazaria Government Technical School and College in Munshiganj, he said a target has been set to plant more than 5.5 crore trees across the country following the prime minister’s directive.The programme was organised by Renaissance International Foundation.The state minister said temperatures in Bangladesh are rising at an alarming rate due to climate change, making tree plantation essential to protect the environment.More than three crore saplings have already been planted across the country through government and private initiatives, he said.He added that another two crore mangrove saplings would be planted in coastal areas during the upcoming winter season.Sheikh Faridul Islam stressed that planting trees alone would not be enough. Proper care and protection of the trees must also be ensured.He also advised families to plant at least one tree after the birth of a child.Speaking about plastic and polythene pollution, the state minister said thin polythene bags and single-use plastics are causing serious damage to the environment, soil and water bodies.He said the government is placing importance on implementing a refuse policy to discourage the use of polythene as part of efforts to combat pollution.Munshiganj-3 MP Kamruzzaman Ratan attended the event as the chief discussant.District Commissioner and District Magistrate Syeda Nurmahal Ashrafi chaired the programme, while District Police Superintendent Menhazul Alam PPM addressed the gathering.Renaissance International Foundation Chairman Ataur Rahman inaugurated the programme. Gazaria Upazila Nirbahi Officer Umme Hafsa Nadia, acting principal of Gazaria Government Technical School and College Jesmin Sultana, Officer-in-Charge of Gazaria Police Station Nakeeb Akram and representatives from different levels were also present.