This paper offers an economic evaluation of the floating garden as a means of adapting to climate change in Bangladesh. The study showed that the monthly income of some farmers using such gardens increased from US$12.02 to US$48.08. These folk farmers lacked alternative work especially during the monsoon period. The floating garden uses available natural resources, adjusts to wet conditions and helps the flood-prone people to earn a living, and can be an adaptive response to frequent disaster events in Bangladesh.
10 October 2013 in Science Journal of Agricultural Research and Management
Homestead agroforestry, in the form of homegardens, has a long tradition in many developing countries. These systems are an intimate mix of diversified agricultural crops and multipurpose trees planted, maintained by members of the household. This paper aims to explore the species composition commonly found in the homestead agroforestry systems in the Ganges valley of northern Bangladesh and their contribution to local livelihoods. Three villages i.e., ‘Capasia’, ‘Chak Capasia’ and ‘Baduria’ were selected as the primary study area. Data were collected by (1) rapid rural appraisal, (2) direct observation, (3) informal and structured interviews with a purposive sample of 90 households. A total of 53 plant species under 32 families were identified from the study area and it was found that the relative density were highest for Areca catechu (areca palm), Artocarpus heterophyllus (jackfruit) and Mangifera indica (mango). Financial analysis showed that homestead agroforestry net benefit increases with the increasing landholding classes. However, no significant difference was found between the number of species in different farm sizes, contrasting other studies that accused this relationship. The comparison of Shannon-Wiener index between agroforestry systems and natural forest showed no statistical difference, reinforcing the role of homegardens in biological conservation in Bangladesh. Therefore, increasing agroforestry practices in homesteads, should be the strategy for enhancing tree cover in order to meet basic needs of the local people and for environmental sustainability.
28 February 2025 in Chinese Journal of Urban and Environmental Studies
Background: Traditional birth attendants (TBAs) play a significant role in providing care to mothers and newborns in Bangladesh. Understanding their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding maternal and newborn health is crucial for improving maternal and child health outcomes. This qualitative study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of TBAs regarding maternal and newborn healthcare in Bangladesh. Methods: In‐depth interviews were conducted with 11 TBAs in local communities using a predeveloped and pretested interview guide, focusing on their understanding of safe maternal and newborn healthcare practices. Knowledge and practice of the TBAs related to maternal and newborn health were explored under several broad themes. Results: The study revealed a mix of beneficial and potentially harmful behaviors among TBAs in maternal and newborn health practices. While they recommend beneficial practices like exercise and hygiene during delivery, they also utilize practices lacking evidence or potentially harmful, such as traditional medicine use. TBAs demonstrated awareness of clean delivery importance but had varied adherence to hygienic practices. Knowledge and attitudes varied among TBAs, with some receiving formal training. Conclusion: This study highlights the imperative for educational interventions, training programs, and collaboration between TBAs and healthcare providers to enhance TBAs' knowledge and awareness. These efforts are crucial for improving maternal and child health outcomes in local communities across Bangladesh.