© AF/Jessie Namnika Daru
The PRISTINE project tackled plastic pollution across both the upstream and downstream areas of the Sundarbans Reserve Forest by creating a recycling value chain for Single-Use Plastics (SUP) that is transparent, traceable, and inclusive. At its core was the development of a mobile application, called Wastex, to track plastic waste from collection to recycling, documenting the contributions of waste collectors to the circular plastic economy.
By integrating a digital registry system, the project formalized the role of informal waste pickers, enhancing their recognition, securing their participation in formal waste management systems, and improving their livelihoods.
It also reduced occupational health risks by promoting safer collection practices and providing structured opportunities for income generation.
Through this approach, PRISTINE not only removed harmful plastics from sensitive ecosystems but also empowered marginalized waste workers, linking environmental protection with social and economic benefits. The project is a model for addressing plastic waste challenges in ecologically critical areas while supporting community resilience and sustainable livelihoods.
FROM MONGLA TO MANGROVE | BEATING PLASTIC POLLUTION, SKETCHING A GREENER FUTURE
PRISTINE was supported by the PLEASE Project, which is implemented by the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP), supported by the World Bank, and with implementation support from UNOPS (United Nations Office of Project Services)
© AF/Farhan HaqueThis nationwide study examines the growing demand and supply dynamics of wood-based products in Bangladesh, with a focus on wood chips, sawdust, and furniture. Driven by rapid urbanization and a furniture sector growing at 15–20% annually, the country faces increasing pressure on timber resources. While local production and imports contribute to meeting demand, restrictions on harvesting from natural forest... Read more
Location: Khulna, Bagerhat, Jashore, Jhenaidah, Bogura, Dinajpur, Tangail, Mymensing, Gazipur, Dhaka, Narayanganj, Barisal, Sylhet, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Chattogram, Rangamati
© AF photo libraryArannayk Foundation strengthened community-based conservation across key biodiversity areas (KBAs) through the facilitation and networking of Co-Management Organizations (CMOs). In the Sundarbans, this included the Sundarbans Region Co-Management Society (formerly the Sundarbans CMO Network), while in the northeast, the Greater Sylhet CMO Network brought together CMOs from Tanguar Haor, Hakaluki Haor, and H... Read more
Location: Sylhet, Sunamganj, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Satkhira, Bagerhat, Barguna, Khulna
© Zawyad Bin MostofaThis initiative focused on conserving big cat species, particularly the clouded leopard within the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot by safeguarding transboundary forest ecosystems in Bangladesh’s Chittagong Hill Tracts and India’s Mizoram. The project combined habitat management, community-based conservation, and cross-border collaboration to strengthen ecological resilience, reduce human–wildlife conflict,... Read more
Location: Rangamati, Bandarban, Mizoram
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