The Centre for Climate Change and Environmental Research (C3ER), BRAC University, successfully hosted the final round of Mangrove Hackathon 2025: Nature-Based Innovations for Climate Action on 27 February 2025 at CSS Ava Center, Khulna under the NABAPALLAB project. The event was graced by Chief Guest, Mr. Mohammad Saiful Islam, Deputy Commissioner (DC) and District Magistrate of Khulna, along with Special Guest Ms. Shelina Shelly Khan, Chief of Party, NABAPALLAB, Humanitarian and Climate Action Program, CARE Bangladesh. The session was chaired by Dr. Ainun Nishat, Professor Emeritus and Advisor, C3ER, BRAC University.
The hackathon provided a platform for young innovators and entrepreneurs from climate-affected areas to present nature-based solutions for protecting mangrove ecosystems and enhancing climate resilience. Participants collaborated with academia, researchers, and experts to develop innovative and locally driven strategies to address pressing coastal challenges. This initiative aimed to foster collaboration among youth, academia, researchers, and policymakers while promoting youth-led climate solutions.
Leading up to the final round, C3ER, BRAC University and Brighters, in partnership with OAB Foundation, Renew Earth, Sharub Youth Team, and FFCRJ, conducted several digital and awareness campaigns. These efforts encouraged young minds to explore the impacts of climate change on mangroves and generate innovative solutions for mangrove-dependent communities across Satkhira, Khulna, and Bagerhat. The hackathon focused on six key thematic areas: climate and weather information services, locally-led nature-based solutions, renewable energy solutions for businesses, climate-resilient WASH services, climate-resilient small infrastructure, and climate-resilient and nature-positive livelihoods for marginalized communities.
The campaign successfully engaged over 155 youth, leading to the submission of 35 innovative ideas. To refine their concepts, C3ER, BRAC University facilitated consultation sessions, helping participants analyze climate impacts, feasibility, and innovation potential. Following these sessions, participants resubmitted their improved ideas, which were evaluated by an expert judging panel. The top 10 most impactful and innovative ideas were selected for the final round, where participants pitched their solutions in front of experts, stakeholders and judges. The top 4 champions of innovative ideas were prized BDT 15,000 based on the judge’s score.
The Mangrove Hackathon 2025 not only showcased groundbreaking ideas but also reinforced the role of youth in driving climate resilience and adaptation. Through collaboration, mentorship, and community engagement, the event marked a significant step toward sustainable, locally led climate action.
