By
Quazi M. Ahmed
Founder & President, BOND
As climate change becomes a defining challenge of our time, the role of Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) in driving green innovation and sustainable development has never been more vital. Bangladesh, while highly vulnerable to environmental shocks, also holds immense potential for sustainable growth. What if this potential could be unlocked through the knowledge, capital, and commitment of NRBs?
At BOND (Bridging Organization with NRBs for Development), we believe the Bangladeshi diaspora can be a powerful force for environmental transformation. From launching eco-friendly startups to initiating clean energy projects and advocating for sustainable policy reforms NRBs are already contributing to a greener future.
Why Green Innovation Matters Now
- Bangladesh is at risk. Rising sea levels, erratic weather, and pollution threaten lives and livelihoods.
- Global urgency. The world is shifting toward green economies; Bangladesh must not be left behind.
- NRBs are well-positioned. Many NRBs work or study in countries leading in green technology and sustainability practices.
How NRBs Are Driving Change
Across the world, Bangladeshi-origin professionals, academics, and entrepreneurs are leading the way in sustainability. Here’s how:
1. Clean Energy Solutions
- Solar energy startups and off-grid electricity projects for rural homes
- Investment in biogas and wind energy for agriculture and coastal communities
- Advising local utility providers on renewable integration
2. Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security
- Training farmers in regenerative farming and hydroponics
- Importing eco-friendly tools and techniques from abroad
- Supporting organic food businesses in Bangladesh
3. Eco-Entrepreneurship
- Launching green businesses such as zero-waste packaging and eco-textile brands
- Building green buildings and smart, energy-efficient housing
- Promoting sustainable fashion and circular economy ventures
4. Tech for Sustainability
- Developing mobile apps to monitor air/water quality
- Innovating climate data systems for flood forecasting and early warning
- Using AI and blockchain for carbon tracking and environmental reporting
Case in Focus: Real Impact by NRBs
- Canada to Cumilla: A Bangladeshi-Canadian engineer set up a solar microgrid in a remote village, powering 200+ homes without harming the environment.
- London to Lalmonirhat: An NRB-led NGO introduced sustainable irrigation systems that reduced water usage by 40%.
- Silicon Valley to Sylhet: A tech-savvy NRB developed a drone system to monitor forest degradation in the Sylhet region.
These are not just projects they’re stories of hope, proof that global ideas can have local impact.
What BOND Is Doing
BOND actively facilitates:
- Knowledge exchange between NRBs and local innovators
- Collaborative partnerships with green tech firms and universities
- Funding opportunities for NRB-led sustainability ventures in Bangladesh
- Policy advocacy for environmental reforms using diaspora voices
We aim to be the bridge that connects brilliant minds with meaningful missions.
Let’s Co-Create a Greener Future
Are you an NRB with a passion for sustainability? Whether you’re an engineer, entrepreneur, researcher, or student your insight and action matter. BOND invites you to:
- Share your green ideas
- Partner on pilot projects
- Mentor local changemakers
- Invest in sustainable startups
Together, we can ensure that Bangladesh is not just climate-resilient but climate-smart.Let’s turn green dreams into real impact. With the power of the NRB community, sustainability is not a hope, it’s a plan.