The prime minister addressed the issue during the opening of the '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 government's focus on protecting the Sundarbans while carrying out development projects. Despite protests from environmentalists and leftist groups regarding the construction of a coal-based power plant near the Sundarbans, the government has reassured that the plant will not cause any harm to the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sundarbans were granted this status in 1997 during a previous Awami League government led by Hasina. Hasina stated that the Sundarbans have been consistently safeguarded by the government. She emphasized that Bangladesh owes its preservation to the Sundarbans. Plans are being made by the government to expand the mangrove forest using artificial methods. Hasina mentioned that the Awami League government has successfully achieved a 17 percent growth in the country's forest area and aims for a 25 percent increase. She also highlighted the government's efforts in promoting a balance between environmental conservation and socially responsible forestry. She suggested the implementation of 'smart patrolling' to safeguard the area and emphasized the importance of creating a 'green seawall' to protect against natural disasters. Additionally, efforts are being made to provide alternative employment opportunities for those who depend on the Sundarbans. The prime minister also mentioned a trust fund she established to address climate change, with Tk 31 billion allocated for it so far. However, she expressed disappointment that many developing countries have not contributed to the fund. She stated that despite receiving numerous promises, they were given little financial assistance. However, they made good use of what was received. The prime minister emphasized that Bangladesh has demonstrated self-reliance and is gaining recognition for it.