January 7, 2025 – Investments in climate adaptation are proving to be life-saving, particularly in Bangladesh, where efforts to mitigate extreme weather events have made significant strides in recent years. Located near the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, Bangladesh is exposed to cyclones, flooding, and droughts. The risk of these events has increased with climate change, threatening millions, especially the nearly 40 million residents of the country’s 710 km-wide coastal plain.
Supported by the World Bank, Bangladesh has developed a robust approach to climate adaptation over the past 15 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This strategy includes constructing disaster shelters that serve as primary schools during normal weather conditions and building connecting roads and communication networks for easy access to these shelters, enhancing connectivity and boosting economic activity.
Aklima Khatun, a mother of three from Char Fasson, Bhola, shared her relief: “We are happy to have a shelter center near our house. This area will be developed due to the school cum cyclone shelter. Our children can attend school. And during the time of storm and cyclone, we can stay here. Even a few months ago, we took shelter in the school building with our cows and goats.”
The success of these investments is evident in the reduction of casualties during cyclones. Cyclone Bhola in 1970 resulted in approximately 300,000 deaths, whereas Cyclone Amphan in 2020 claimed just 20 lives. Bangladesh is now recognized as a development success, with its advancements enabling it to better address climate risks.
Bangladesh’s experience aligns with the conclusions of the World Bank Group’s new adaptation report, “Rising to the Challenge: Success Stories and Strategies for Achieving Climate Adaptation and Resilience.” The report emphasizes that adaptation and resilience are fundamentally tied to development. Prosperous countries are better prepared for climate impacts, and their populations are less vulnerable. For example, in Uganda, Guinea, and Haiti, less than half the population has access to electricity, which is vital for coping with climate shocks and for overall well-being. Therefore, rapid, robust, and inclusive development is essential.
The report highlights varying progress among countries, noting that many already have the policies in place to implement climate adaptation. Those best positioned to handle climate impacts are nations with good governance and prior experience of climate shocks, such as several small island states in the Caribbean. However, significant gaps remain in how prepared countries are to meet climate risks.
Bangladesh’s Key Adaptation Strategies
- National Adaptation Plan (NAP): Bangladesh has developed a comprehensive National Adaptation Plan (NAP) for 2023-2050, focusing on integrating climate adaptation into national development planning. The NAP aims to protect vulnerable sectors such as agriculture, water resources, and coastal communities.
- Community-Based Adaptation (CBA): Implementing CBA projects in collaboration with UNDP and other partners empowers local communities to take charge of their adaptation efforts. Projects like the Community-Based Wetland Project and Coping with Climate Risks by Empowering Women in Coastal Areas enhance community resilience.
- Disaster Shelters and Schools: Constructing disaster shelters that double as primary schools ensures communities have safe places during extreme weather events and educational facilities during regular times.
- Infrastructure Development: Investing in connecting roads and communication networks improves access to disaster shelters, enhances connectivity, and boosts economic activity.
- Reduction in Casualties: Significant reduction in casualties during cyclones, as evidenced by the stark contrast between Cyclone Bhola in 1970 (300,000 deaths) and Cyclone Amphan in 2020 (20 deaths).
- Global Leadership: Hosting the ninth global National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Expo in 2024, Bangladesh showcased its commitment to climate adaptation and resilience.
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Aligning climate adaptation efforts with SDG 13: Climate Action, ensuring that development gains are resilient and sustainable.
- Collaboration and Partnerships: Strong collaboration with international organizations and domestic stakeholders, including vulnerable communities, sector ministries, and academia, has been key to Bangladesh’s success.
The Role of Governance and Innovation
Bangladesh’s success story is also a testament to the crucial role of good governance and innovative strategies in climate adaptation. Under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, the government has prioritized climate resilience, investing in projects that not only safeguard communities from immediate threats but also promote long-term sustainability.
The emphasis on community involvement ensures that adaptation measures are locally appropriate and effective. By incorporating local knowledge and needs, the government has been able to implement solutions that are both practical and accepted by the communities they serve.
Economic and Social Benefits
The dual-purpose disaster shelters are a prime example of how adaptation strategies can provide multiple benefits. These shelters not only offer a safe haven during extreme weather events but also serve as schools, thereby contributing to education and community development. Improved infrastructure, such as roads and communication networks, enhances connectivity, which is vital for economic activities.
Moreover, these investments have had a significant impact on public health and safety. The drastic reduction in casualties during cyclones is a clear indicator of the effectiveness of these measures. The development of resilient infrastructure has also contributed to overall economic stability, enabling communities to recover more quickly from climate-related disruptions.
International Recognition and Future Plans
Bangladesh’s climate adaptation efforts have garnered international recognition, positioning the country as a leader in this field. The success stories and strategies outlined in the World Bank report serve as a model for other nations grappling with similar challenges. The government’s proactive approach and dedication to building resilience have set a benchmark for effective climate adaptation.
Looking ahead, Bangladesh plans to continue its efforts to enhance climate resilience. The National Adaptation Plan (NAP) for 2023-2050 outlines long-term strategies for addressing climate vulnerabilities and promoting sustainable development. This includes expanding current projects, exploring new technologies, and strengthening partnerships with international organizations and other countries.
Conclusion
Bangladesh’s journey towards climate adaptation is a remarkable example of how strategic investments, good governance, and community involvement can create a resilient future. Under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, the country has not only safeguarded its population from the immediate threats of climate change but has also laid the groundwork for sustainable development. The success of these efforts underscores the importance of integrating climate adaptation into national development plans and serves as an inspiration for other nations facing similar challenges.
Deepanwita Martin, Sub Editor The Voice.
