Community Led Climate Adaptation: A case study of Whykong union, Teknaf Upazila under Coxsbazar district in Bangladesh

Abstract

The study was conducted in Whykong union, Teknaf upazila under coxsbazar district, an area prone to climate-related vulnerabilities. The primary aims and objectives of the case study to assess the impact of climate change, economic condition and community led adaptation initiatives to the selected study location. Data was collected through self-selected sampling from the total amount of community by using KOBO data collection tools. The study reveals successful community-led adaptation practices, innovative approaches, and the impact of local empowerment on resilience. Females account for 55%, while males account for 45%. According to the data, the most common occupation among the participants was housewife, with a frequency of accounting for 54.84% of the total. 54.84% had an income level of less than 5000 BDT. The most prevalent challenge reported by the respondents is the Rohingya Crisis, with a frequency of 93.55%. Poverty is another major challenge, with a frequency of 70.97%. Water scarcity is also a significant challenge, reported by 67.74%. Respondent perception showed that the government which accounts for 74.19% of the total initiatives. The need for climate education and awareness is also recognized, accounting for 70.97% of the total initiatives. This highlights the importance of educating and creating awareness about climate change among the public. CBOs/NGOs/INGOs activities have also contributed significantly, with accounting for 70.97% of the total. Domestic rainwater harvesting accounts for 45% of the community-led initiatives. This initiative involves capturing and storing rainwater for domestic use. It helps to minimize water scarcity during dry periods and reduces reliance on groundwater sources. Pond Sand Filter (PSF) accounts for 30% of the community-led initiatives. It aims to protect the community from climate-related hazards. Diversification of livelihoods accounts for 65% of the community-led initiatives. It helps reduce dependence on climate-sensitive sectors and promotes sustainable livelihood practices. Community participation and decision-making account for 49% of the community-led initiatives. The insights derived from the case study have implications for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers involved in climate resilience efforts. Community-led adaptation in building climate resilience and fostering collaboration and integrating local knowledge into broader climate change mitigation and adaptation.