Ecovillage Design in Action: Boniface’s Journey in Reviving Traditional Bangladesh Communities
Creating an ecovillage is never a one-size-fits-all journey. It’s a process of transformation in which local traditions meet the promise of a regenerative future. This became vividly clear when Kin and I spoke with Boniface Gomes of the Bangladesh Association for Sustainable Development (BASD). His work integrates Ecovillage Design principles into traditional communities in Bangladesh, blending ecological insights with cultural depth. It’s a vision that not only transforms land but deeply touches lives—millions of lives—extending beyond his immediate communities to inspire neighboring regions, as well as globally, through the Global Ecovillage Network.
From Humble Beginnings to Lasting Impact
Boniface’s journey began with a simple yet profound desire: to serve his community and create a more sustainable way of life. What started with ecological design soon expanded into a holistic approach addressing social and economic sustainability. Early inspiration came from indigenous groups like the Khasia people, whose reforestation and sustainable farming practices naturally aligned with ecovillage principles.
But his real challenge lay in engaging the broader Bengali population, who were more disconnected from these traditional ways. “Tribal communities already embody ecovillage principles,” Boniface told us. “But it’s the Bengali people who need to embrace this way of life.” He quickly realized this transformation would take time, trust, and tangible results.
Turning Points and Overcoming Resistance
The early days were anything but easy. “In the beginning, this journey was not easy,” Boniface admitted. “It was very tough. Many volunteers were threatened, beaten, tortured, and even pushed out of the village at night.” In 2005, BASD launched its first ecovillage project in Boniface’s home village, but skepticism was high. People including the villagers, chemical companies, and politicians feared the unfamiliar concepts of permaculture and ecological design.
It wasn’t until BASD shifted its focus to disaster-prone areas—communities devastated by cyclones and poverty—that the work began to take root. By training local leaders, addressing immediate needs like food security, and fostering collaboration around common goals, they began to turn resistance into acceptance.
The watershed moment came in 2013 when a massive cyclone struck the Bay of Bengal. “At that time, we thought, ‘This is not the time for ecovillages or permaculture,’” Boniface recalled. “We decided to focus on rehabilitation and saving the community.” BASD spent two years rebuilding homes and restoring hope. Their unwavering presence and long-term commitment earned the trust of the community. Boniface reflected, “That’s when they started seeing us as true friends.”
Empowering the Next ecovillage Generation
Another turning point in Boniface’s journey was recognizing the power of youth. In 2012, BASD hosted the NextGENOA workshop, bringing together young leaders passionate about sustainability. I was fortunate to witness this spark of inspiration firsthand when I visited BASD in 2012. Many of those young participants have since become change-makers in their own right, advocating for sustainability across schools and local institutions.
This focus on youth continues today through BASD’s school-based permaculture programs. As Boniface explains, “School permaculture is a two-in-one approach: children learn in school and practice these lessons at home with their parents.” These initiatives are planting the seeds for a new generation of environmental stewards—children who are not only learning but actively influencing their families and communities.
Bridging the Generational Divide
One of the most moving aspects of Boniface’s work is his ability to bridge the growing divide between generations. Urbanization and migration have left many young people disconnected from their cultural roots. To address this, BASD facilitates dialogues between elders and youth, creating spaces where traditional knowledge can be shared and celebrated.
Boniface shared a touching story of elders weeping with gratitude during one of these gatherings, overcome by the opportunity to share their wisdom after years of feeling silenced. These moments don’t just preserve cultural heritage; they rebuild pride and foster continuity between past and future.
“Leave Better Soil for Your Grandchildren”
One principle guides Boniface’s work above all: leaving the world better for the next generation. “When you die, leave better soil for your grandchildren—not the same or degraded soil, but improved soil,” he told us. This philosophy isn’t just about agriculture—it’s about creating a legacy of regeneration in every aspect of life.
A Call for Regional Collaboration
Our conversation ended with a renewed call for regional collaboration. It’s been too long since our last gathering, so I proposed hosting the next NextGENOA event in 2025 at Gaia Ashram. Boniface shared plans to publish permaculture and ecovillage design books in Bengali, making these ideas accessible to a wider audience. Together, we envisioned strengthening the network through exchanges, youth-led projects, and deeper cultural connections.
Lessons for Ecovillage Developers
Boniface’s journey offers many important lessons for ecovillage-minded folks, especially those working within traditional communities:
- Start Small: Focus on achievable projects that build momentum. Tangible impacts help to get people to join the movement.
- Build Trust: Solid relationships and open communication are the foundation of lasting change. Be sincere and authentic in your goodwill.
- Empower Local Leaders: Train and support passionate people who can lead from within their existing communities. Where relevant, further empower them with residential retreats/workshops.
- Learn from Traditional Wisdom: Honor and integrate indigenous knowledge into designs. Spiritual aspects like meditation, yoga, singing, dancing, and rituals help to add depth.
- Foster Intergenerational Connections: Create spaces for youth and elders to connect and share knowledge and insights.
Network and Collaborate: Build supportive partnerships with other ecovillage practitioners, local institutions, policy makers, and international institutions, etc.
Joining the Movement for a Regenerative Future
Boniface’s story shows that ecovillage development is not just about infrastructure—it’s about relationships, traditions, and empowerment. His work with BASD offers a compelling vision of a future where ancient wisdom and modern sustainability come together to create lasting change.
If his journey resonates with you, consider exploring Gaia Ashram’s Ecovillage Design Education (EDE) course or joining other courses including the Ecovillage Lifestyle Experience Week (ELEW). Whether through learning or simply being present, you can also contribute to a regenerative future where the soil—and life itself—is left better than we found it.
Asia Ecovillage Stories Series #4 – Bangladesh Association for Sustainable Development
Written by Sunisa Jamwiset Deiters and edited by Cait Charles
