Background: Leaf litter from fruit trees such as Psidium guajava, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Citrus limon, Litchi chinensis, and Mangifera indica accumulates significantly in agroforestry systems of southern Bangladesh, particularly in Khulna. Inadequate management of this organic waste can hinder soil aeration, reduce fertility, and contribute to pest problems. Microbial degradation using indigenous bacterial consortia presents an environmentally sustainable approach to accelerate decomposition and recycle nutrients back into the soil.

Aim of the study: To isolate and characterize bacterial consortia from decomposing fruit tree leaves and evaluate their efficiency in degrading mixed leaf litter in the agroforestry systems of Khulna, Bangladesh.

Methods: Leaf litter samples from five fruit tree species were collected and processed for microbial isolation using standard serial dilution and culturing techniques. Bacterial strains were identified based on colony morphology and biochemical characteristics. Selected strains were combined into consortia and tested on mixed leaf litter substrates under controlled conditions. Degradation efficiency was assessed through weight loss measurements, visual decomposition scoring, and enzymatic activity assays over a 30-day incubation period.

Result: All bacterial consortia demonstrated substantial degradation capacity, with the highest decomposition observed in consortia containing cellulolytic and ligninolytic strains. Mixed leaf litter showed higher biodegradation rates than individual species, indicating synergistic effects among microbial communities. Guava and lemon leaves decomposed more rapidly than mango and jackfruit leaves, which exhibited more resistant lignocellulosic structures.

Conclusion: Bacterial consortia isolated from naturally decomposed leaf litter offer an effective, eco-friendly solution for managing agroforestry waste in tropical regions. Their potential for large-scale application could significantly improve soil health and reduce the environmental burden of organic waste in Bangladesh’s fruit-based agroforestry systems.

Background: Bangladesh, particularly rural areas like Kotalipara, faces increasing climate-related challenges such as flooding, riverbank erosion, and cyclones. Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) offer a sustainable approach to climate mitigation and resilience, yet their adoption remains limited due to various socio-economic and institutional barriers.

Aim of the study: This study aimed to assess the awareness, perceptions, and willingness of the Kotalipara community to engage in Nature-Based Solutions for climate mitigation.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 563 residents of Kotalipara using structured, face-to-face interviews. Participants aged 18 years and older, residing in the area for at least one year, were included. Data were collected on sociodemographic characteristics, environmental awareness, knowledge and attitudes toward NbS, barriers to implementation, and willingness to engage. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis using SPSS version 26.

Result: Among respondents, 91.6% were aware of climate change impacts, with flooding (86.5%) and riverbank erosion (70.5%) being the most recognized issues. Knowledge of NbS was moderate (67.1%), but active participation was low (23.4%), primarily hindered by a lack of knowledge (83.8%) and funding (70.7%). Despite these barriers, 73.2% supported nature-based climate actions, and 62.0% expressed willingness to engage in future initiatives. Traditional ecological practices were still widely used (55.4%), and 70.7% supported integrating these practices with modern NbS strategies. However, trust in local institutions remained low (38.4%).

Conclusion: The community of Kotalipara demonstrates strong awareness of environmental issues and a positive attitude toward Nature-Based Solutions, although actual participation remains limited due to knowledge gaps, financial constraints, and institutional challenges. Strengthening education, financial support, and policy integration is essential for enhancing NbS adoption and building climate resilience at the local level.

Background: Air pollution is a significant environmental health issue, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where it is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. In Bangladesh, air pollution is a critical concern, with rural and semi-urban areas like Kotalipara Municipality facing worsening air quality, largely due to household fuel use, waste burning, and vehicular emissions. Despite efforts to manage air quality, public awareness and governmental measures remain insufficient. 

Aim of the study: This study aims to assess the health impacts of air pollution in Kotalipara Municipality, examine local perceptions of air quality, and evaluate coping strategies and governmental policy awareness among residents.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in Kotalipara Municipality using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data were collected through structured surveys and face-to-face interviews, targeting residents aged 18 years and above who had lived in the municipality for at least one year. The study covered demographic details, health symptoms, air quality perceptions, coping strategies, and governmental awareness. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, including descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. 

Result: The study revealed that a significant proportion of residents perceived air quality as poor or moderate, with vehicle emissions, cooking fuels, and waste burning identified as major pollution sources. Health symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath were commonly reported. Asthma was the most prevalent diagnosed condition. Many residents adopted protective measures like wearing masks and keeping windows closed, although awareness of government initiatives was low. Households, particularly those in low-income groups, reported a higher burden of health and economic impacts due to air pollution. 

Conclusion: Air pollution in Kotalipara Municipality has a significant impact on residents’ health, particularly respiratory conditions. Despite limited awareness of government initiatives, residents have adopted various coping strategies. There is an urgent need for effective policy implementation, public education campaigns, and cleaner cooking technologies to mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution in the area. 

 Background: Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) are gaining global attention as sustainable approaches to mitigating climate change, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting human well-being. Despite their growing importance, youth awareness and participation in NBS remain limited, especially in rural regions like Kotalipara of Gopalganj, Bangladesh.

Aim of the study: This study aimed to assess the awareness, knowledge, and engagement of youth in Kotalipara with Nature-Based Solutions, identify the barriers they face, and explore their perspectives on strengthening local environmental initiatives.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 students from three educational institutions in Kotalipara, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising both closed and open-ended questions covering knowledge of NBS, sources of information, past participation in environmental activities, perceived challenges, and recommendations. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS (Version 26), primarily with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Result: A study of 150 students in Kotalipara, Gopalganj, showed high overall awareness of Nature-Based Solutions (93.3%), varying slightly across institutions (Kamalkunri: 84%, Public: 92%, College: 98%). Social media and community programs were key information sources, with curriculum influence noted in college students. Tree plantation was the most recognized NBS activity, and participation in environmental activities ranged from 46% to 66%. Barriers included lack of awareness/training (schools) and financial/opportunity limitations (college). Tree planting was the most preferred NBS activity, with college students also favoring community gardening and waste management.

Conclusion: The study highlights a promising level of awareness about NBS among rural youth in Kotalipara, though practical involvement remains limited due to systemic barriers. Addressing these challenges through targeted awareness campaigns, institutional collaboration, and youth-inclusive environmental policies could significantly enhance community resilience and sustainability.