Women-Led Mangrove Nurseries Strengthen Climate Resilience

In early June 2025, community-driven mangrove restoration efforts have surged across the Sundarbans’ outskirts, led primarily by women from local coastal villages in Khulna and Satkhira. These restoration and nursery programs are empowering women, boosting rural incomes, and helping protect the coast from storms and erosion. The Bangladesh Environment and Development Society (BEDS) operates several nurseries through this program. Recently, they have trained over 12,500 local women in planting and maintaining native mangrove species. These women not only plant saplings but also engage in mangrove-based fish and shrimp farming, creating new livelihood options. Local leader Wasiul Islam from Khulna University explains, “By encouraging villagers to start mangrove cultivation, we are not only creating employment opportunities but also reducing pressure on the forest.”  This shows how forestry is serving both environmental and economic goals. One new digital tool aiding these efforts is a simple mobile app that guides women in monitoring sapling health and growth patterns. This low-cost tech uses GPS data and manual input to help track which areas need replanting or care — blending traditional forestry with modern methods. A recent milestone is the planting of over 100 acres of new mangrove coverage along embankments in Satkhira — part of a government-backed, community-based effort. The result is a growing green belt that absorbs up to 2.5 times more carbon than regular trees, making it a vital tool in Bangladesh’s climate response. Women involved are also earning income through the processing of mangrove products, such as honey and pickles, which they sell under the brand “Banajibi” at eco-tourist spots and local markets . This adds value beyond plantation work and builds community pride. Experts say these efforts contribute to both environmental and gender goals. They help stabilize coastlines, restore wildlife habitat, and grow rural incomes — while also fostering women’s empowerment. As climate change increasingly threatens Bangladesh’s low-lying coast, the women-led nurseries offer a niche, non-political solution with lasting impact. By combining traditional knowledge, simple mobile tools, and community care, this forestry initiative shows how blending sectors—community empowerment and forestry—can build a brighter, greener future for Bangladesh.