The project environmental screening indicated that nearly all components
would have a positive (or an insignificant negative) effect on the
Bangladesh environment. Since the project is intended to benefit the environment
in several ways, this assessment is not surprising. The Project is expected
to benefit the environment by rehabilitating existing sal forest stands,
and the remnants of the region’s tropical moist forests. The conservation
components of the Project will enhance the viability of a number of threatened
wildlife species and forest ecosystems. Plantations, particularly on the
char lands, will need to be carefully planned to avoid adverse environmental
impacts. A crucial element here is clarity and transparency regarding ownership
of the land and of the products from afforestation activities.