One of the countries that are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change is Bangladesh. Geographically exposed, over 50% of the population lives in climate-exposed areas. Yet, this country is underprepared to deal with the economic impacts of climate change. Currently, Bangladesh ranks 137th in GDP per capita, and the country has only recently begun to address the problem. Listed as one of the most vulnerable countries in the world, Bangladesh is a great opportunity to make a positive difference.
Impacts of climate change on health
According to a recent World Bank report, the impact of climate change in Bangladesh has impacted both physical and mental health. Increased rainfall and temperature increases have increased the prevalence of mosquito and waterborne diseases. More people are now suffering from mental health issues related to erratic weather conditions. Moreover, climate change has been known to increase the risk of respiratory diseases, such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
The study provides useful direction for the adaptation of public health in Bangladesh. It is based on rich interview material collected from a large number of respondents in low-income and vulnerable communities. The results reveal that marginalized populations are at risk of suffering from the health impacts of climate change. The future of the health system in Bangladesh must be adapted to meet these challenges. Therefore, the authors recommend the following adaptation strategies. While they are not a panacea, these measures can help reduce the risk of adverse health outcomes.
Conflicts between beneficiaries of climate change
The impacts of climate change on land degradation, economic marginalization, and human insecurity have been well documented. In Bangladesh, for example, climate-driven migration has led to intensified violence, migration, and ethnic tension. As the world struggles to reduce its carbon footprint, the United States should take a more comprehensive approach to address climate change. While the United States has a long history of supporting international efforts to combat global warming, the United Kingdom should look to its neighbors for leadership in this area.
In the past few decades, predictions have lingered in Bangladesh about an impending environmental catastrophe. These warnings typically involved Malthus’ famous theory, which asserts that exponential population growth will outpace linear increases in crop yields. It predicted mass hunger and social breakdown as a result of the looming catastrophe. Despite these predictions, Bangladesh has proven these neo-Malthusian doomsayers wrong. While poverty rates have fallen, the country is now self-sufficient in crops such as rice and wheat.
Evidence of biodiversity benefits
A recent study found that biodiversity-based solutions to climate change and natural hazards can reduce poverty and promote sustainable development. Implemented in Bangladesh, these solutions can provide resilient protection against climate risks and foster the restoration of biodiversity. They should involve all stakeholders in planning, design, and implementation, and be complemented by robust financial and land tenure systems. This report provides key findings from this study, as well as evidence gaps and enabling factors.
Forest ecosystem services are one of the most significant benefits of climate change adaptation. Local communities can collect branches from the restored swamp forests, which are maturing. These trees can help people to produce fuel and other essential items, as well as reduce carbon emissions. Yet, many people in developing countries are not aware of the benefits that climate change solutions can provide. Despite these benefits, some local communities in Bangladesh still depend on forests for fuelwood and other uses.
Carbon storage and sequestration potentials of NbS interventions
The climate change adaptation and mitigation objectives in Bangladesh are likely to be attained in part by improving the resilience of coastal mangroves and other ecosystems. NbS interventions support sustainable development and biodiversity while addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation needs. These strategies support Bangladesh’s vision to lead the world in NbS while protecting natural assets and addressing multiple societal challenges sustainably.
The key to effective implementation and governance of NbS are enabling factors. Enabling factors are categorized into five categories: participatory delivery, strong and equitable governance, access to finance, secure land tenure, and practical support. While the development of NbS interventions will benefit developing countries, the implementation and governance of such interventions should be transparent and involve local communities sufficiently.