Palm Tree Plantation

Objective:

• To protect the wall and nearby communities from the impact of annual cyclones in Sundarbans.
• To promote sustainable livelihoods and environmental conservation through palm tree plantation.
• To contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon footprint and promoting biodiversity.
• To empower local communities through skill development, employment, and income generation.

Why Palm Tree Plantation?

• Palm trees are a natural barrier against cyclonic winds and storm surges.
• They are high and strong, reducing the force of cyclonic winds and protecting nearby communities and infrastructure.
• Palm trees are never broken, ensuring a long-lasting natural barrier.
• Palm fruit is a high-value product in the market, providing a significant source of income for local communities.

Project Description:

• Plantation of 1,000 palm trees on the opposite side of the riverbank, adjacent to the wall, to act as a natural barrier against cyclonic winds and storm surges.
• Selection of palm tree species suitable for coastal areas and able to withstand high winds and saline conditions.
• Involvement of local communities in the plantation and maintenance process.
• Training and capacity building for local communities on sustainable palm tree management and cyclone risk reduction.

Environmental Benefits:

• Carbon Sequestration: 1,000 palm trees will absorb approximately 200 tons of carbon dioxide annually, contributing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Palm trees will provide habitat for various bird species, insects, and small mammals, promoting local biodiversity.
• Soil Erosion Prevention: Palm tree roots will hold soil in place, preventing erosion and landslides.
• Air and Water Purification: Palm trees will absorb pollutants and sediments, improving air and water quality.

Social Benefits:

• Employment Generation: Palm tree plantation and maintenance will provide employment opportunities for local youth and women.
• Skill Development: Training and capacity building programs will enhance the skills of local communities in sustainable palm tree management and cyclone risk reduction.
• Income Generation: Palm tree products (e.g., palm oil, palm leaves) will provide an additional source of income for local communities.
• Community Engagement: Involvement of local communities in the project will foster a sense of ownership and responsibility towards environmental conservation.

Project Components:

1. Site Selection and Preparation: Identification of suitable sites on the opposite side of the riverbank, adjacent to the wall; clearance of land; preparation of soil for plantation.
2. Palm Tree Plantation: Plantation of 1,000 palm trees adjacent to the wall, with a density of 100 trees per hectare.
3. Maintenance and Monitoring: Regular monitoring and maintenance of the palm trees, including pruning, fertilization, and pest management.
4. Community Engagement and Training: Training and capacity building for local communities on sustainable palm tree management and cyclone risk reduction.

First NGO Initiative in Sundarbans:

• Sukher Swarga Foundation is the first NGO to initiate a palm tree plantation project in Sundarbans.
• Our project aims to set a precedent for environmental conservation and social empowerment in the region.
• We are committed to working with local communities and stakeholders to ensure the success and sustainability of the project.

Why in River Wall beside in Sundarbans?

• The Sundarbans is a cyclone-prone area, and the river wall is critical infrastructure that protects nearby communities and ecosystems from cyclone impacts.
• Planting palm trees beside the river wall will provide additional protection against cyclonic winds and storm surges, reducing the risk of damage.
• Palm trees will stabilize the soil and prevent erosion, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the river wall.
• The palm tree plantation will contribute to the conservation of biodiversity in the area.

Project Beneficiaries:

1. Local Communities: 500 families will benefit through employment opportunities, improved livelihoods, and environmental sustainability.
2. Small-Scale Farmers: 200 farmers will gain training and support for sustainable agriculture practices.
3. Rural Youth: 300 youth will receive skill development and employment opportunities in plantation maintenance and eco-tourism.
4. Women’s Groups: 100 women’s groups will benefit from training and support for sustainable livelihoods and environmental conservation.
5. Local Wildlife: The project will enhance local wildlife conservation by creating habitats.