Researchers from the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS) gathered last Sunday to discuss how to tackle climate impacts in the country. The Annual BIDS Conference focused on topics like environmental resilience and adaptation.
One significant presentation by BIDS researcher Muntasir Murshed highlighted the positive effects of adopting clean cooking fuels, particularly Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). He explained that this shift not only benefits the environment but also improves public health and offers socio-economic advantages. Despite these benefits, around 72% of Bangladesh’s population lacks access to clean cooking fuels, making the country one of the lowest in South Asia in this regard. Murshed emphasized the need for better policymaking to boost clean energy access by addressing both supply and demand.
Another paper showcased the struggles of households in haor areas, who are more vulnerable to climate-related issues compared to their neighbors. This vulnerability is worsened by limited resources to adapt to these challenges.
researcher Azreen Karim presented findings on how occupational backgrounds impact responses to climate events. Migrant households, regardless of their type of migration, often face economic hardships. This situation frequently leads women to seek income-generating work to support their families.
Taznoore Samina Khanam, another BIDS researcher, discussed the adoption of climate-resilient rice varieties. Her research found that households experiencing climate stress were more likely to adopt submergence-tolerant rice. Conversely, those under recent stress were less inclined to try drought- or salinity-tolerant varieties, likely due to a lack of confidence in newer options.
Overall, the conference underscored the urgent need for innovative solutions as Bangladesh faces growing climate challenges. These discussions reflect a broader trend where countries are increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainable practices in the face of environmental crises.
For further reading, you might find the World Bank’s insights on energy access helpful.
