—Nusrat Sultana—

Bangladesh is grappling with an escalating climate crisis as rising temperatures pose significant threats to public health, economic stability and environmental sustainability. Recent data underscores the urgency of addressing this multifaceted challenge.

Data from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department reveals that the annual temperature has increased by approximately 1°C over the last five decades with projections suggesting a further rise of up to 1.4° C by 2050. In 2024, Bangladesh experienced an alarming increase in extreme heat events. Between May 2023 and May 2024, the country endured approximately 76 days of extreme heat-57 more days than the historical average-directly linked to human-induced climate change. Temperatures soared up to 42°C, leading to nationwide school closures and affecting the education of approximately 33 million children. According to a report by the International Center for Climate Change and Development, the number of heatwave days per year has increased by 57% since the early 2000’s. Prolonged exposure to such extreme conditions is affecting daily activities, reducing productivity and increasing the incidence of heat related illness.

The economic impact of rising temperature in Bangladesh is profound. A study by the London School of Economics projects that, under a 3°C global warming scenario by 2080, Bangladesh could see a 46.2% decline in labor productivity in heat-exposed sectors. Additionally, The Lancet reported that in 2023, Bangladesh lost an estimated $21 billion due to reduced working hours caused by high temperatures, with agriculture workers bearing the brunt. Besides, high temperaturereduce crop yields, damage soil fertility and increase evaporation rates. The Ministry of Agriculture report a 15% decline of rice production in 2023 compared to the previous years. Urban areas are also grappling with heat related disruption. Workers in the manufacturing, transport and construction sectors are at a high risk.

The health implications are equally concerning. Children are particularly vulnerable, with UNICEF highlighting increased risks Tribune Wikipedia highlighting increased risks of heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration. The elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions also face heightened risks during extreme heat events. According to a report, Hospitals across Dhaka and Chattogram 30% increased in case of heat exhaustion and dehydration during the peak summer month in 2024.

Environmental repercussions of rising temperature are also impacting Bangladesh’s fragile ecosystem. The Sunderbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest is particularly at high risk. Increased temperature and salinity are disrupting the natural habitat, threatening biodiversity and endangering species such as the Bengal Tigers. Additionally urban heat islands are becoming more prevalent, exacerbated by deforestation and unchecked urbanization.

Addressing the rising temperatures in Bangladesh requires immediate and coordinated efforts. This includes investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, enhancing early warning systems and implementing policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring sustainable development must be at the forefront of national and international agendas. The government must focus on building climate resilient infrastructure, focus on tree plantation and enhancing public awareness.

Experts argued that more targeted efforts are needed including improving heat resistant crops variation and community based adaptation strategies. International cooperation is also crucial as well. Bangladesh, as a member of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, has been advocating for global climate Justice and financial support to bolster its adaptation efforts. Integrating climate education in the national curriculum could also play a crucial role in fostering resilience among the youth population. Lastly, it’s our duty to protect our environment and we must take action against rising temperatures to avoid damage in future.

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The writer is a student, Department of Sociology, University Of Chittagong