Reviving coastal resilience: Green Bangle Project leads palm plantation drive at Guliakhali Beach

To strengthen coastal resilience and restore ecological balance, the Green Bangle Project, in partnership with local women from Sitakundu, YPSA, and the Asian University for Women, has completed the plantation of 1,040 sugar date palm saplings and 500 Palmyra seeds at Guliakhali Beach.

This initiative aims to enhance flood protection, combat coastal erosion, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the region's ecosystems. The palm trees, known for their resilience in saline environments, serve as natural buffers, stabilizing the soil and protecting against storm surges and rising sea levels, according to a press release.

The saplings and seeds were cultivated in the Green Bangle Home Nursery by trained local women from a larger eco-preneurship movement. These women, empowered through workshops organized by the Green Bangle Movement, have learned sustainable cultivation techniques and sold the saplings to the project, ensuring an income stream while promoting environmental conservation.

"This planting is a powerful testament to the dedication of the women of Sitakundu," said Dr. Paulraj Mosae, head of the Green Bangle Project. "Their work, driven by eco-feminism, women's empowerment, and eco-preneurship, contributes to a more resilient coastline that will protect future generations."

In addition to flood protection, these trees enhance biodiversity by providing habitats for various species, and their fruits, leaves, and stems offer economic opportunities, supporting local livelihoods.

This collaborative effort marks a key milestone in the ongoing push for sustainable environmental practices and demonstrates the strength of community-driven conservation, inspiring eco-friendly initiatives across the region.