On Wednesday in Dhaka, experts gathered to discuss an urgent shift towards using scientific data for policymaking in Bangladesh. The dialogue, titled “Bangladesh in Climate Emergency: Evidence-Based Pathways for Climate Action,” highlighted the need for a proactive approach in facing the country’s climate crisis.
Organized by Oxfam in Bangladesh and supported by the Australian government, the event brought together policymakers and development partners. They explored innovative strategies for climate action and ecosystem restoration.
Prof. Ainun Nishat, a well-known climate expert, stressed the importance of integrating data into climate governance. He pointed out, “Bangladesh is at a critical juncture. We need clear, transparent strategies to tackle climate challenges.” Evidence-based policies can guide investments and strengthen the nation’s position in global climate talks.
Recent data show a staggering rise in climate-related disasters. Global events surged by 83% from 1980 to 2019, with over 9,700 weather-related disasters reported worldwide, causing around 830,000 deaths and losses exceeding $4.5 trillion. In Bangladesh, more than 300 disasters have impacted about 190 million people since 1995, translating to annual losses of $3 billion.
Dr. Mohammad Emran Hasan from Oxfam presented findings emphasizing Bangladesh’s ongoing climate crisis, which includes increased flooding, cyclones, and ecosystem degradation. He underscored the alarming rise in global climate damages, with scientists warning that tipping points may come sooner than expected.
Dr. M. Shahidul Islam, a professor at the University of Dhaka, noted a disconnect between knowledge and action. He said, “Bangladesh has the expertise and capability, but we need to act quickly and effectively.” It’s crucial that evidence informs decisions to manage complex climate risks.
Md Sariful Islam from Oxfam moderated the event, featuring a position paper that detailed the climate crisis and proposed actionable solutions. Oxfam introduced tools like the Loss and Damage Dashboard and the Interactive Spatial Decision Support System to facilitate climate projects based on community input and remote data verification.
Nayoka Martinez-Bäckström from the Swedish Embassy emphasized that climate justice is a global issue. “Bangladesh faces the greatest impacts of a crisis it didn’t create. Ground-level evidence is vital to ensure fair climate finance reaches vulnerable communities,” she said.
Ashish Damle, Oxfam’s country director, highlighted the importance of linking community experiences with policy. “Climate action should reflect the realities of those most affected. Tools like the Loss and Damage Dashboard amplify community voices in policy discussions,” he explained.
The discussion also covered Bangladesh’s growing vulnerabilities, including rising temperatures and sea levels affecting over 100 coastal areas. Projections suggest that by 2050, around 13.3 million people could be displaced within the country due to climate impacts.
This conversation isn’t just about Bangladesh; it reflects a global urgency to act on climate change. As we face more frequent and severe weather events, the need for data-driven action is clearer than ever. Countries must collaborate and innovate to address the challenges ahead effectively.
Through initiatives like BID4CJ, which advocates for inclusive climate justice, Oxfam aims to drive meaningful change by partnering with local organizations and communities. This effort underscores a shared responsibility to protect those most vulnerable in the face of climate emergencies.
For more information on evidence-based climate action, visit Oxfam or check the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for the latest reports and findings.
