Blossoming change in Godkhali, Bangladesh

The Bangladesh Environment and Development Society (BEDS) is a nationally and internationally recognised non-profit organisation dedicated to building climate-resilient communities and fostering harmony between people and nature. Working with PUM, BEDS combined traditional farming experience with modern expertise, opening doors to increase incomes, reduce chemical use and strengthen a flower sector that supports both people and the planet. This project in Godkhali demonstrates how learning, innovation and collaboration can transform livelihoods while protecting the environment.

BEDS, founded in 2010 by environmentalists, academics and social activists, envisions a Bangladesh where ecological balance and human well-being thrive together. Its focus lies in empowering vulnerable communities through capacity building, sustainable resource use, climate adaptation and eco-friendly livelihoods that protect nature while improving social and economic conditions. Key areas include mangrove restoration, biodiversity conservation, renewable energy and the integration of forestry, fisheries and agriculture.

A shared vision for growth

BEDS invited PUM expert Jan van Leeuwen to collaborate on strengthening farmers’ knowledge in cultivation, post-harvest management, storage, branding and marketing. The goal is to modernise the flower value chain through sustainable, market-driven practices that increase competitiveness in both local and export markets.

During his visit, Jan visited numerous nurseries and flower farms across the Godkhali region to understand local challenges and opportunities. These visits were followed by interactive trainings for growers and BEDS staff, focusing on topics such as soil management, crop planning, and post-harvest handling. This hands-on approach allowed participants to directly apply new insights to their daily work.

This collaboration combines traditional farming experience with modern expertise, opening doors to higher incomes, reduced chemical use and a flower sector that supports both people and the planet.

Growing together

Godkhali, often called the flower capital of Bangladesh, produces most of the country’s flowers and holds great promise for rural prosperity. Yet farmers have long faced challenges such as low prices, limited access to competitive markets and declining soil health.

Through hands-on training, field visits and open discussions, Jan and BEDS are enabling farmers to adopt sustainable techniques that improve soil fertility, enhance flower quality and strengthen market connections. This collaboration is not only about better farming methods but about turning passion into progress, building confidence among farmers and growing together towards a more sustainable future.

When effort blossoms into impact

The results are already visible across Godkhali. Farmers are embracing organic and sustainable approaches that restore soil health, lower input costs and improve production quality. With new marketing insights and value-addition techniques, producers are achieving better prices and entering new markets. Some have even diversified through nurseries and agro-tourism, creating new opportunities for rural development.

Mr. Asfrafull

Bangladesh Environment and Development Society (BEDS)

“Our collaboration with PUM has been truly transformative. Their expert guidance enabled us adopt modern cultivation techniques, improve production quality and reduce costs. Farmers are now more confident, skilled and better connected to markets. This partnership not only increased income but also strengthened the community’s capacity for sustainable growth.