Exotic trees harmful to soil, environment

Monsoon is the best time to plant trees. That is why, the government inaugurates the tree plantation season in June every year, and it continues till September. What does not get enough attention, however, is the importance of choosing the right kind of trees. According to a recent study, planting of exotic trees can negatively impact native biodiversity.

Many people in Bangladesh plant exotic trees like eucalyptuses intentionally or unintentionally. This tree provides more money because of the timber and as it grows very fast compared to other trees. However, it has a number of adverse impacts on our life and environment. This tree dries up groundwater through transpiration at a rate 18-20 times more than any other tree. If eucalyptuses are allowed to grow around a natural reservoir for about 10 years, water level is likely to reduce by 20 per cent, says another study. Even the leaves of this tree cannot be easily decomposed and as such causes harm ro the soil.

Experts say that pollen emission from the eucalyptus flowers is also high, which may cause respiratory problems to humans. Despite all the negative impacts of eucalyptus, people are still planting it for financial gain. As our ground water level is decreasing, we need to have a plan through which we will be able to get rid of harmful exotic trees like eucalyptus.

Badsha Faysal,

Jurain, Dhaka,

badshafaysal1998@gmail.com