Investigating climate change perceptions, impacts and community led adaptation strategies in Noakhali coast, Bangladesh

World Congress on Environmental Toxicology and Health

July 11-12, 2018 Sydney, Australia

Edris Alam

University of Chittagong, Bangladesh

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Environ Anal Toxicol

Abstract :

Climate change and impacts has emerged as a key concern for environmentally vulnerable countries. The coastal region of Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to climate change, natural disasters and human-induced intervention due to its geographical location. A study was conducted in two chars of Noakhali district, Bangladesh, through questionnaire survey, focus group discussions and case study to capture the perceptions of the community on climate change and impacts and also to understand the current strategies to adapt with the changing situation. Findings revealed that socio demographic status of the area are very poor. People are illiterate and engaged in agricultural practices for livelihood. Climate change has arisen as the greatest threat to people of the study area. They observed changes in cyclone, storm surge, heavy rainfall, flood, river bank erosion, seasonal variation, etc. in the locality. These changes have negative impact on all aspect of human development including livelihoods, infrastructure, agriculture, food security, safe water and sanitation, health care and shelter. Small scale human involvement in climate change also explores by the study. Copping strategies have been continuously changing with the change of climate. In order to adjust with climate change, some strategies such as: Crop diversification, saline resistance crop cultivation, floating cultivation, social forestation, extension of homestead agriculture, animal husbandry, plinth raising, installation of tube-well and sanitary latrine have adopted by local community people. Government and NGOs are helping the communities in this aspect. Peoples are not satisfied with their current situation rather they want to improve with the help of government and NGOs. Suggestions have been provided for implementing climate change adaptation plan in the area, so they can strengthen their life quality.