S. M. Saiful Islam Kabir,  Sundarbans

The world's largest mangrove forest, the Sundarbans, contributes nearly Tk 5,500 crore to the economy annually, according to a study conducted by the Institute of Forestry and Environmental Sciences (IFES), University of Chittagong.

According to the survey, the Sundarbans’ primary economic value comes from three sectors: tourism, protection from natural disasters, and biodiversity-based dependence.

However, researchers emphasized that the true environmental value of the Sundarbans is almost impossible to quantify in monetary terms.

Financial Contribution from three key sectors include cyclone protection and disaster mitigation: Tk 3,881 cr, tourism sector earnings: Tk 414 cr and  biodiversity and local dependency: Tk 1,161 crore

The survey was supported by Winrock International, USAID, and the John D. Rockefeller Foundation. Conducted during 2015-16, the research was led by Dr. A. H. M. Raihan Sarkar, economist M. Nurun Nabi, and GIS analyst Emran Hasan.

A Living Natural Wall : 

Over the past century, 508 cyclones have formed in the Bay of Bengal, of which at least 17% directly struck Bangladesh. The Sundarbans' trees and vegetation have played a crucial role in mitigating the devastating impact of storms like Cyclone Sidr (2007) and Aila (2009).

The survey found that the green barrier of the Sundarbans helps deflect cyclone winds hundreds of meters upward, thereby reducing damage and protecting coastal homes, crops, and resources.

Tourism Appeal and Revenue : 

Drawn by its rich biodiversity and culture, many domestic and international tourists visit the Sundarbans each year. Major tourism festivals include the Rash Mela and Bonbibi Mela.

Survey data shows 81% of tourists were first-time visitors, and 90% came through package tours. On average, each tourist generates Tk 65,746 in revenue.

However, 82% of tourists expressed dissatisfaction with tourism facilities in the region. The report recommends establishing an eco-tourism training center to improve tourism management.

Livelihood Dependence on  Sundarbans : 

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), around 3.5 million people are directly or indirectly dependent on the Sundarbans for their livelihood.

Locals collect honey, beeswax, crabs, golpata (nipa palm), fish, shrimp, and medicinal plants from the forest. Although the collection of fuelwood and shrimp fry is banned, many people still engage in these activities.

Forest Department Initiatives : 

A.Z.A. Hasanur Rahman, Divisional Forest Officer of the Western Sundarbans, stated that the government is taking continuous steps to preserve the heritage of the Sundarbans.

He said, “Coastal communities are being trained and made aware to protect the wildlife and resources of the Sundarbans. They are going door to door to educate people on conservation methods.”

Key recommendations are iIncrease entry fees to the Sundarbans, expanding  mangrove forest areas, strict enforcement of laws to curb illegal forest activities, ban on infrastructure development inside forest areas and training for tour operators

Dr. Raihan Sarkar commented, the true value of the Sundarbans cannot be measured in money. This survey only reflects a limited portion.”

Economist Nurun Nabi added, this research will help policymakers take practical steps to conserve the Sundarbans.”