An integrated novel approach to the environmental health assessment of Bangladesh's coastal ecosystems

Abstract

The coastal expanse of Bangladesh, situated along the Bay of Bengal, is a susceptible and low-lying area grappling with multiple environmental challenges. Various physicochemical parameters were employed in the assessment of water quality. The CCME Water Quality Index indicated the western coast as 70.13 (Fair), the Central coast as 42.2 (Poor), and the Eastern Coast as 64.6 (Marginal). This outcome was corroborated by the Environmental Quality Index, with the Western Coast ranked as (Good), the Eastern Coast as (Fair), and the Central Coast as (Poor). The analyzed parameters provided insights into pollution levels, water clarity, nutrient dynamics, and the overall health of the coastal ecosystems. Additionally, the study delved into heavy metal concentrations, encompassing arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), mercury (Hg), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn). The eastern coast exhibited higher contamination compared to the other two regions, emphasizing potential risks to both the environment and human health. This study aimed to evaluate the environmental health risks and water quality in this region, introducing a novel Environmental Health Risk Index (EHRI) to gauge the overall environmental health conditions. According to the EHRI, the Western Coast exhibited good conditions (2.25), while the Central (3.625) and Eastern (3.5) Coasts were classified as not bad, with the Eastern Coast experiencing comparatively lesser impact. Based on these findings, several recommendations emerge, including the implementation of climate change adaptation strategies such as coastal protection measures, the advocacy of sustainable land use practices, and the enhancement of monitoring and management protocols for water quality.