Coping with Climate Change in the Sundarbans: Lessons from Multidisciplinary Studies (original) (raw)

Abstract

Climate change poses serious threats to inclusive economic progress and poverty reduction. Strong countermeasures are required to increase the capacity of low-income people to mitigate their risk exposure to the impacts of climate change. Central pillars in planning for sustainable development and poverty alleviation must include vulnerability assessments, appropriate adaptation measures, and resilience-smart investments. This means placing climate change adaptation and resilience at the center of overall development policy. Coping with Climate Change in the Sundarbans contributes to this effort by synthesizing multiyear, multidisciplinary climate change studies on the Sundarbans, the world’s largest remaining contiguous mangrove forest and wetland of international importance, as well as home to some of South Asia’s poorest and most vulnerable communities. The studies’ findings indicate that, in a changing climate, sea-level rise, storm-surge intensification, and water salinization ...

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What are the main vulnerabilities of the Sundarbans to climate change?add

The research identifies that the Sundarbans are highly susceptible to rising sea levels, increased salinity, and extreme weather events, impacting both human and ecological systems. Among these, the increasing frequency of cyclones due to climate change is particularly highlighted; for instance, Cyclone Aila in 2009 displaced over 50,000 people in the region.

How does migration affect communities in the Sundarbans facing climate change?add

The study finds that climate-induced migration often leads to social fragmentation and increased vulnerability among remaining community members, particularly affecting women and children. In the aftermath of climate-related disasters, over 30% of households reported an influx of female-headed families, illustrating the demographic shifts caused by male out-migration for work.

What adaptive strategies are recommended for the Sundarbans' residents?add

The findings suggest implementing community-based adaptation strategies, such as mangrove restoration and improved agricultural practices, to enhance resilience. For example, pilot projects have shown that integrating local knowledge into flood management strategies has increased crop yields by 15% compared to traditional methods.

How do multidisciplinary studies enhance understanding of climate change impacts in the Sundarbans?add

The research underscores that integrating ecological, socio-economic, and cultural perspectives provides a comprehensive view of vulnerability and resilience mechanisms. This approach has revealed that livelihoods in the Sundarbans are not only affected by environmental factors but are deeply intertwined with local governance and cultural practices, which must be considered in adaptation planning.

What role does policy play in supporting the Sundarbans against climate change effects?add

The paper emphasizes that strong policy frameworks must focus on community involvement and investment in sustainable infrastructure to effectively combat climate risks. Policy analyses indicate that every dollar invested in climate-resilient infrastructure could yield up to four dollars in economic benefits for local communities.

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