Grameen Bank has launched a nationwide initiative to plant 10 million trees to mark its 50th anniversary, aiming to address climate change and protect the environment. The tree-planting programme was inaugurated yesterday at the Mahipur Kalapara branch in the Patuakhali zone, according to a report published on August 16, 2026. The bank began in Jobra village, Chattogram, in 1976 as a small microcredit project.

Professor Dr Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, chairman of Grameen Bank, attended the inauguration as chief guest. Managing Director Sardar Akhtar Hamid, Company Secretary Abdus Sabur Md Bakius, zonal and area managers, and local dignitaries were also present. Chowdhury said the institution had begun a fight against climate change after starting its fight against poverty 50 years ago.

Hamid said the programme seeks to improve nutrition and economic security for member families while making the country more climate-resilient. Distribution of fruit, forest and medicinal saplings among members is under way at Grameen Bank's 2,528 branches across the country. Planting in household yards and open spaces will continue throughout the year.