The Bangladesh Centre for Advanced Studies (BCAS) is helping people to adapt lives and livelihoods to the dangers and risks associated with climate change.
BCAS focuses on the poorest, such as women, the elderly and the disabled, along with farmers, fishermen, landless labourers, shrimp cultivators and rickshaw pullers. The most marginalised people are increasingly the hardest hit by climate change precisely because they are poor and lack the voice, assets, services and information necessary to adapt.
BCAS is working with marginalised communities to build a climate resilient society and equip people with the skills and confidence to find innovative and profitable ways to protect livelihoods against climate change, such as:
Floating allotments: floating beds are prepared in areas affected by water logging. Vegetables and spices such as pumpkin, okra, garlic and ginger are cultivated. Growth and crop yields are higher than normal farming practices and the floating allotments can withstand prolonged flooding.
Tree planting: planting trees improves the environment by preventing erosion, as well as providing income generating opportunities.
Duck rearing: in the flood plain and other areas, duck rearing is an effective alternative livelihood, especially for women.
Crab fattening: farming crabs is an excellent income source for people living in areas affected by water salination, tidal surges and the rising sea levels.
On 5 June 2009, the communities involved gathered together to mark World Environment Day and used it as an opportunity to raise awareness about climate change and share their experiences with others in the community including local government.