Safeguarding Coastal ecosystem from irresponsible commercial shrimp farming” (SECO)

The project concerns the protection of the Sundarban mangrove forest & tidal wetlands through responsible shrimp farming. The project aims to contribute towards the conservation of coastal ecosystem resources (wetlands, Sundarban forests and biodiversity through strengthening the capacity of the commercial shrimp farms. The project activities mainly focused on the safeguarding/preventive approach such as social mobilization, capacity building, advocacy & networking and knowledge management for policy advocacy. The project covers two coastal districts which are closest to the Sundarban forest; Khulna and Sathkhira in the SW coastal region of Bangladesh. The primary beneficiaries of the project are shrimp farm laborers, Shrimp farmers; Shrimp fry collectors (mostly women and children), and shrimp farm owners. The commercial shrimp farms will be capacitated to effectively communicate and consult with government agencies & NGOs concerning their access to and use of coastal natural resources. Shrimp farms will also be capacitated and encouraged to complying with GCC & EU rules pertaining to quality control. The project expects to improve the status of human capital & social capital among the commercial shrimp farm stakeholders by providing knowledge, skills, motivation, effective communication, shared values, cultural practices and co-operation to employ different strategies for safeguarding ecosystem and biodiversity resources. The promotion of wise use of natural resources and conservation of biodiversity resources through responsible shrimp farming will enhance the natural capital of the coastal region and ensure sustainability of natural resources for the poor.