Bangladesh, a frontline country in the global climate change crisis, experienced 185 extreme weather events between 2000 and 2019, ranking it the eighth most vulnerable nation to climate change.
A recent scientific synthesis by the International Centre for Climate Change and Development (ICCCAD) and Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (Buet) underscores the worsening climate vulnerabilities and their profound impact on people's lives, ecosystems, livelihoods, and food security.
The report reveals that climate impacts have led to the degradation of ecosystems, livelihoods, and infrastructure, with rising heatwaves contributing to heat stress among workers, resulting in loss of life and reduced productivity.
Flooding, rising sea levels, and saline soil intrusion have forced people to leave their homes, affecting land and food security. Climatic events like floods in 2017 contributed to a 30% surge in rice prices.
Bangladesh's geographical position exposes it to flooding, water source depletion, escalating sea levels, and salinity intrusion, potentially displacing millions of people, according to Environment Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury during COP28.
On average, the country has already lost an estimated $1 billion annually, 0.7% of GDP, due to cyclone-related damages.
While Bangladesh has been recognized for its pioneering efforts in adaptation and resilience, the report emphasizes the need for improved governance, integrating indigenous knowledge, and addressing the gap between top-down government initiatives and local community needs.
The authors stress the importance of domestic finance at the national level to support long-term adaptation efforts.
The report highlights the urgency for international action against climate change as Bangladesh faces increasing impacts.
Prof Mizan R Khan, deputy director of ICCCAD, said: “Although the number of cyclones has fallen over the satellite era (1970–2015), the proportion of intense events has increased. Average losses yearly from cyclone damage amount to an estimated $1 billion (0.7% of GDP)."
With COP28 establishing a loss and damage fund, Bangladesh advocates for a mechanism aligned with climate justice principles, ensuring substantial contributions to meet vulnerable countries' extensive adaptation finance needs.
The report also calls for Bangladesh's transition away from fossil fuels, receiving technological and financial support from developed nations for a just transition, and meeting emission reduction targets outlined in its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).
