The prime minister addressed the issue during the opening ceremony of 'World Environment Day and Environment Fair 2017 and National Tree Planting Project and Tree Planting Day 2017' at the Bangabandhu International Convention Centre. She emphasized the importance of protecting the Sundarbans while carrying out development projects. Despite protests from environmentalists and leftist groups, the government has assured that the coal-based power plant in Rampal will not harm the Sundarbans. The Sundarbans, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 during a previous Awami League government led by Hasina, remains a focus of conservation efforts. Hasina stated that they have consistently worked to safeguard the Sundarbans. She mentioned that Bangladesh owes its safety to the mangrove forest. The government is strategizing to expand the forest artificially. Hasina highlighted that under the leadership of the Awami League government, there has been a 17 percent growth in the forest area, with a goal of achieving a 25 percent increase. She also mentioned that the government has successfully established a balance between protecting the environment and promoting socially responsible forestry practices. She suggested the implementation of 'smart patrolling' to safeguard the region and emphasized the importance of creating a 'green seawall' to protect against hurricanes and floods. Additionally, measures are being taken to help those who depend on the Sundarbans find alternative sources of income. The prime minister also mentioned creating a trust fund to combat climate change, with Tk 31 billion already allocated. She expressed her disappointment that some developing countries had not contributed to the fund. She mentioned that despite receiving numerous promises, there was minimal financial assistance provided. However, the assistance received was effectively utilized. The prime minister stated that Bangladesh has demonstrated self-reliance and is being acknowledged for their independent efforts.