Remuneration for Conservation: An Ecosystem Service Changing Lives in the Hills of Bangladesh

Abstract

A major concern regarding the effects of climate change is fresh-water scarcity. Even though a key source of sustainable fresh water is the world’s remaining natural forests, research on fresh water is not being prioritized in forest conservation projects. Understanding the link between fresh water and forest conservation, few organizations in Bangladesh have moved to conserve the natural forests of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, also known as the Village Common Forests (VCFs), in order to safeguard a sustainable safe water supply for communities using the Gravity Flow Water System (GFWS). With this system, communities living around the VCFs have gained access to clean drinking water and come to view the forests around them as a clean water source. Accordingly, their dependency on the unsustainable extraction of forest resources has decreased. This work reports on a case study that drew on the experiences of communities and organizations in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. The case study explored how, with limited support, initiatives for community forest conservation could ensure a clean and sustainable drinking water source. This study also reports on an analysis of publications on adaptation practices. Findings indicate that communities using GFWS have gained access to a safe drinking water source and relief to women and children, who had previously spent hours collecting drinking water. Study findings have implications for countries concerned with the relationship between fresh-water scarcity and forest conservation efforts amidst climate change effects.