The Dutch Ambassador to Bangladesh, Andre Carstens, and the EU Deputy Head of Delegation, Dr Bernd Spanier, visited the WildTeam Conservation Biology Centre (TigerHouse) in the Sundarbans on Friday.

They observed conservation initiatives, including community efforts to protect Bengal tigers and tackle plastic pollution.

During the visit, the dignitaries toured the museum and interpretation centre at the facility and engaged with Village Tiger Response Teams (VTRTs), BaghBandhus (friends of tigers), and TigerScouts.

The VTRTs demonstrated how they respond to incidents where tigers stray into villages, showcasing their role in managing human-wildlife conflicts in the area.

The visit also included the inauguration of a plastic waste management programme, jointly organised by the International SeaKeepers Society Bangladesh Chapter and WildTeam.

The dignitaries commended WildTeam’s collaborative efforts with the forest department and local authorities in mobilising communities to protect tigers and address environmental challenges such as plastic pollution.

Speaking at the event, they highlighted the hazards of plastic waste mismanagement, which often finds its way into rivers and eventually oceans, posing a severe threat to marine ecosystems. Both expressed a commitment to working together to combat this issue.

Key local stakeholders, including Mongla Upazila Nirbahi Officer Afia Sharmin, Assistant Conservator of Forests for the Chandpai Range Dipon Chandra Das, CEO of WildTeam Dr Anwarul Islam and Joymoni High School Headmaster  Paritosh Mistry.

The Dutch Ambassador and Dr Spanier are set to visit the Sundarbans forest on Saturday to gain further insights into ongoing conservation efforts in the region.