By Mononjoy Mondal from Shyamnagar, Satkhira
BARCIK–PORIBESH project held its Reflection and Annual Strategic Meeting to strengthen climate adaptation actions and improve livelihoods for marginalized rural communities living in the climate-vulnerable southwestern coastal region of Bangladesh. The meeting aimed to review progress, reflect on challenges, and set strategic priorities for 2026, with a strong focus on climate resilience, food security, social justice, and the rights of climate-vulnerable and marginalized communities.
The meeting brought together 17 staff members of BARCIK–PORIBESH project team and was held at the CCDB Climate Center in Sreepur, Gazipur, on 19–20 December 2025. The venue was selected for its extensive demonstrations of climate adaptation technologies developed across different ecological zones of Bangladesh, offering practical insights relevant to BARCIK’s coastal working areas in Satkhira.
Participants reviewed the progress of 2025 activities interactive and openly discussed key implementation challenges faced at the field level. Particular attention was given to how climate-induced stresses such as soil salinity, erratic rainfall, heat stress, and freshwater scarcity are increasingly affecting agriculture, livelihoods, and access to safe food and water. The discussions emphasized the need for locally adaptable, cost-effective solutions that strengthen community resilience while improving economic, social, and political participation.
As part of the learning process, the team observed and analyzed a wide range of climate-resilient and environment-friendly practices showcased at the CCDB Climate Center. These practices, drawn from six ecological zones of Bangladesh, were examined for their relevance to coastal and climate-stressed contexts. Group discussions focused on effectiveness, affordability, sustainability, and the potential for replication at community and CSO levels. Several practices were identified as suitable for adaptation and demonstration in BARCIK–PORIBESH working areas, including three-layer and vertical vegetable farming, drip irrigation, solar dryers for vegetable preservation, the use of coconut husk and coco dust for seedling production, saline water treatment for household use, and improved clay stoves for energy efficiency.
The outcomes of the Reflection and Annual Strategic Meeting will contribute to BARCIK–PORIBESH’s 2026 action plan. Moving forward, BARCIK will prioritize scaling climate-resilient agriculture, strengthening community capacities, and advancing environmental and climate justice. Selected adaptation practices will be piloted and demonstrated in project areas to support sustainable livelihoods and improve food security for vulnerable communities.
Key Learnings
- Climate adaptation initiatives must be location-specific and grounded in local ecological realities.
- Low-cost, nature-based solutions can significantly enhance food security under changing climate conditions.
- Experimentation-based learning plays a vital role in community acceptance and wider adoption of new practices.
- Strong coordination among CSOs, community groups, and service providers improves access to public services and resources.
Conclusion
The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to stand with climate-affected communities. By learning from practical solutions and grounding actions in local realities, BARCIK–PORIBESH moves forward with renewed clarity to protect livelihoods, food, and dignity in a changing climate.
