Standard Chartered and BRAC launch climate-resilient initiatives for farmers, fishermen

Standard Chartered Bangladesh, in partnership with BRAC, has successfully completed two agricultural initiatives aimed at uplifting farmers in the haor areas of Sunamganj and Habiganj and the Barind region. These initiatives help mitigate the adverse effects of climate change in flood- and drought-prone areas. Additionally, a second initiative has improved the livelihoods of 560 fishermen in the Sundarbans.

Under the first initiative, Standard Chartered and BRAC provided farmers with resilient seed inputs, 353 types of essential agricultural technologies, post-harvest storage solutions, and training opportunities. The project also advanced sustainable agricultural mechanisation by introducing modern equipment and techniques, improving efficiency and productivity. To further protect lives and livelihoods in haor regions, 34,825 palm trees were planted to reduce lightning-related fatalities, an increasingly common threat due to erratic weather patterns. In the Barind region, 28 solar-powered irrigation pumps were installed, lowering irrigation costs and creating additional income opportunities through water trading. This comprehensive intervention addressed key phases of the agricultural cycle, equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to enhance sustainability and food security.

The second initiative focused on strengthening the livelihoods of small-scale fishermen by providing essential equipment, including boats and nets. With limited access to their own tools, many fishermen struggle to sustain their trade. By equipping 560 fishermen with resources tailored to their needs, the initiative is enabling them to take control of their economic futures. Two types of boats—large engine-powered vessels and smaller boats—were distributed to accommodate different fishing needs. A total of 10 large boats and nets were provided to support deep-sea fishing, particularly for Hilsa, while 56 small boats and nets were allocated for catching white fish within the mangrove forest area.

Bitopi Das Chowdhury, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand & Marketing at Standard Chartered Bangladesh, said, "Farmers and fishermen are at the heart of Bangladesh's economy, yet their livelihoods are among the most vulnerable to climate change. By equipping them with the right tools, knowledge, and sustainable solutions, we can help them not just survive, but thrive. Through our partnership with BRAC, we are championing resilience, modernisation, and financial inclusion—ensuring that those who feed the nation have the resources they need to build a stronger, more sustainable future."

As Bangladesh's long-term partner in progress, Standard Chartered has been deeply embedded in the nation's growth story for over 120 years. The Bank remains committed to driving commerce, fostering inclusive development, and investing in communities through impactful initiatives that create lasting change. BRAC, founded by Sir Fazle Hasan Abed in 1972, is one of the world's leading non-profit organisations, dedicated to empowering communities facing poverty, illiteracy, and social injustice. With a presence in all 64 districts of Bangladesh and operations across 11 other countries, BRAC continues to drive sustainable development with a special focus on women and children.