CLIMATE CHANGE IN BANGLADESH: A SYNTHESIS OF RISKS, ADAPTATION, AND POLICY RESPONSES

Bangladesh is globally recognized as one of the most climate-vulnerable countries due to its low-lying geography, dense population, and limited adaptive capacity. This review synthesizes recent peer-reviewed literature, national policy documents, and institutional reports published between 2020 and 2025 to assess the country’s exposure to climate-induced hazards such as sea-level rise, salinity intrusion, and extreme weather events. A total of 50 documents were initially identified through systematic searches, of which 12 were selected based on inclusion criteria emphasizing empirical rigor, policy relevance, and sectoral focus. Using a thematic, desk-based methodology supported by a PRISMA-like screening process and qualitative coding, the study evaluates climate impacts across agriculture, water resources, public health, and livelihoods, while critically examining national adaptation and mitigation strategies. Findings reveal that average temperatures have risen by 0.16°C per decade since 1971, with projections indicating a 2.69°C increase by 2100. Sea levels could rise by 1.17 meters, potentially displacing over 900,000 people by 2050. Despite contributing less than 0.5% of global emissions, Bangladesh ranks among the top ten countries most affected by climate-related disasters. The review highlights progress in disaster preparedness and climate-resilient agriculture, but also identifies persistent challenges in urban adaptation, climate finance, and local implementation. By integrating climate science with governance and community resilience, this review offers actionable insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners working toward equitable and sustainable climate-resilient development.