Bangladesh has enacted two ground-breaking ordinances aimed at strengthening forest conservation and wildlife protection, marking a major shift in the country’s environmental governance, according to Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan.
The Advisory Council on Thursday approved the Forest and Tree Conservation Ordinance, 2025 and the Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Ordinance, 2025, in a meeting chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at his Tejgaon office.
Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan hailed the ordinances as historic steps toward safeguarding country’s forests, biodiversity and wildlife.
She said the new laws will significantly enhance environmental security and help preserve a safe ecological future for the next generations.
A ministry press release noted that the century-old Forest Act of 1927 is no longer adequate to address today’s environmental challenges, including population pressure, rapid urbanization, illegal encroachment and widespread deforestation.
The newly approved Forest and Tree Conservation Ordinance introduces provisions for natural forest protection, securing forest boundaries, ensuring the rights of indigenous communities, restoring degraded forestlands, controlling invasive species and using advanced technology to prevent illegal occupation. It also updates the list of trees that may or may not be felled.
The Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Ordinance, 2025 replaces the 2012 Act, which officials said faced implementation barriers and had become outdated due to changes in international wildlife conservation standards.
The new ordinance prohibits all forms of wildlife hunting, killing, trafficking, and commercial use, while mandating strict penalties.
It also establishes a Wildlife Trust Fund to support wildlife rescue, treatment, rehabilitation, research, training and awareness programs.
The ordinance emphasizes protecting endangered species and fostering human–wildlife coexistence.
It further ensures active involvement of experts, local communities, academic institutions and volunteer groups in conservation initiatives.
SH
