Tackling Climate Threats
Strengthening Resilience in Bangladesh’s Shrimp Sector.
Studio Wide Angle, deeply connected to Bangladesh’s landscapes, recently undertook a pivotal project with ACI Agribusiness in 2023: documenting the “Climate Resilient Sustainable Shrimp Value Chain” initiative. This project aimed to fortify the black tiger shrimp industry in Satkhira, a region in the Ganges Delta increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Through this collaboration, we sought to capture and convey the resilience and innovation embedded within this industry, essential for the livelihoods of thousands of local farmers.
Our journey began with a profound understanding of the critical role shrimp farming plays in Bangladesh’s economy and the unique challenges this sector faces due to climate change. Satkhira, with its vast tidal plains and proximity to the Bay of Bengal, has long been a hub for shrimp farming. However, the region’s low-lying topography makes it exceptionally susceptible to rising sea levels, soil salinity, unpredictable weather patterns, and natural disasters. These environmental challenges directly threaten the sustainability of shrimp farming, which is a crucial source of income for local communities.
In documenting this project, our primary objective was to illustrate the innovative strategies being implemented to overcome these challenges. ACI Agribusiness introduced several interventions aimed at increasing climate resilience across the shrimp value chain. These included new breeding methods, improved water quality management, disease control measures, and the development of robust farmer associations. Additionally, the introduction of contract farming models and access to microfinance were critical components designed to empower farmers and ensure the long-term sustainability of their operations.
Through our lens, we captured the profound impact these interventions had on the ground. We documented how farmers, equipped with new skills and resources, were better prepared to adapt to the changing climate. The project’s goal of bringing 18,750 hectares of farmland under sustainable management was not just an ambitious target; it was a lifeline for 7,500 farmers and their families, offering them a path to greater economic stability and resilience.
Our storytelling approach was driven by a deep respect for the farmers and their journey. We aimed to highlight their resilience in the face of adversity, their willingness to embrace new methods, and their hope for a more secure future. The documentary we produced not only showcased the technical aspects of the interventions but also told the human stories behind them—stories of struggle, adaptation, and perseverance.
The challenges faced by shrimp farmers in Satkhira are emblematic of broader issues affecting Bangladesh’s agricultural sector. Climate change is not a distant threat; it is a reality that is already impacting livelihoods across the country. The need for climate resilience is urgent, and projects like this one are crucial in building that resilience.
At Studio Wide Angle, we recognize the power of visual storytelling to inspire change. Through this project, we aimed to raise awareness about the critical importance of climate resilience in the shrimp farming sector and beyond. By bringing these stories to a broader audience, we hope to galvanize support for continued efforts in sustainable agriculture and climate adaptation in Bangladesh.
Our experience with this project reaffirmed our commitment to using our skills and expertise to document and support initiatives that drive positive change. The resilience of the shrimp farming community in Satkhira serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when innovation, collaboration, and determination come together. As Bangladesh continues to navigate the challenges of climate change, Studio Wide Angle stands ready to contribute to the ongoing efforts to build a more sustainable and resilient future.