Impacts of climate change in Bangladesh and pathways to overcome Climate change has become an inevitable crisis worldwide. However, its effects are particularly severe in Bangladesh, where annual natural disasters are increasingly disrupting lives and livelihoods. The natural calamities for which Bangladesh is known have become more frequent and intense.
The impact of climate change is most severe in coastal areas. Residents of districts like Khulna, Satkhira, and Barguna are facing increased salinity, lack of rainfall, rising sea levels, and more intense cyclones. Agriculture is suffering the most among these effects.
Approximately 30% of land in Khulna and Satkhira districts is now unsuitable for cultivation due to saline water intrusion, which is disastrous for agriculture. Similarly, after Cyclone Sidr in 2007, the devastation of Cyclone Aila in 2009 flooded multiple villages.
The agricultural sector in Bangladesh is the most affected by climate change, especially in the southern and northern regions. Increased salinity disrupts the production of rice, jute, wheat, maize, and other crops. In the southwestern region, particularly in Patuakhali and Barguna, rising salinity has made farming difficult for farmers.
Human health is also at risk due to climate change. Increased heat, droughts, floods, and waterborne diseases are straining the healthcare system. In 2019-20, there was a significant outbreak of dengue in Dhaka. Experts believe climate change is a major factor, as rising temperatures have led to increased mosquito breeding.
Despite the crisis, Bangladesh has made some progress. Cyclone shelters, embankments, and river erosion prevention initiatives are being implemented in coastal areas. Notably, a 10-kilometre-long embankment constructed in Patuakhali in 2015 has protected nearly 100,000 people in the region. Enhancing the effectiveness of cyclone shelters and safety measures can save lives.
Effective measures to combat climate change require support from both the Bangladeshi government and the international community. Funds from climate finance must be used appropriately, and developed countries should provide technological and financial assistance to economically vulnerable and climate-affected nations. Bangladesh has repeatedly called for such support at United Nations environmental seminars. The government is also conducting educational programs and tree-planting initiatives to raise climate awareness among the youth, whose role is crucial as future leaders.
Addressing climate change requires broader social cohesion. Awareness must be raised at both urban and rural levels. Improving waste management through zero plastic use and organizing seminars and workshops to increase awareness are essential.
Research activities and the development of new technologies are vital for combating climate change. Adaptation plans in agriculture, health, infrastructure, and transportation sectors must be improved to create global competitiveness in these areas. If Bangladesh adopts such integrated measures, it will serve as an inspiration not only for its people but also for other countries worldwide.
The people of Bangladesh have always been resilient. By uniting and supporting each other, and leveraging international assistance, we can overcome the adverse effects of climate change. In this way, Bangladesh will forge a new history, standing as a symbol of inspiration across the globe.
The writer is a student of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, North South University; Semifinalist, International Climate Science Olympiad, UNFCCC.
BDST: 1137 HRS, JAN 14, 2025
