With rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and unpredictable rainfall becoming increasingly common, climate change is no longer a distant concern—it is a present reality. In Sapahar Upazila, students, teachers, entrepreneurs, and community members came together with a shared message: “Now is the time to act for the climate.”
On the occasion of World Environment Day 2026, a day-long program was organized under the SMART (Sustainable Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation) Project, implemented by Ghashful with support from Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF). This year’s global theme, promoted by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), emphasized “Now For Climate.”
The program began at Sapahar Pilot High School with a colorful rally featuring students carrying placards and chanting slogans to raise environmental awareness. The rally drew attention from local residents and set the tone for the day’s activities.
In the discussion session, Upazila Rural Development Officer Md. Alamgir Hossain highlighted climate change and rising global temperatures as major challenges of our time. He emphasized the urgent need for environmentally friendly lifestyles and sustainable technologies, particularly at the grassroots level.
To engage young minds, a climate awareness quiz competition was organized, where ten students were awarded prizes. A symbolic highlight of the event was the inauguration of a garden named “Pushpokanon,” where participants planted flower and fruit saplings—promoting biodiversity and carbon reduction.
SMART Project Coordinator Md. Mostafa Kamal emphasized that collective small actions—such as adopting eco-friendly practices and planting trees—can lead to meaningful long-term impact.
While the fight against climate change cannot be won in a single day, initiatives like this demonstrate how awareness and community engagement can sow the seeds of lasting change.