Coastal Bangladesh Research Articles

Optimizing Micronutrient Management for Improved Growth and Yield of Broccoli Varieties in Coastal Bangladesh

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica L.) is a nutrient-dense vegetable, widely valued for its health-promoting properties, yet its cultivation in Bangladesh is hindered by nutrient deficiencies and limited adoption of effective fertilization practices. This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of boron (B) and zinc (Zn) application on the growth, yield, and quality of two broccoli varieties— ‘Green Carpet’ and ‘Early You’—in the Gangetic Tidal Floodplain region, where soil deficiencies in these micronutrients are common. A two-factor Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was employed, with treatments consisting of four B and Zn application levels: control (M0), 2 kg B + 4 kg Zn ha⁻¹ (M1), 2.5 kg B + 4.5 kg Zn ha⁻¹ (M2), and 3 kg B + 5 kg Zn ha⁻¹ (M3). Growth parameters, curd characteristics, and yield were measured to determine the optimal nutrient application level and variety for local conditions. The findings revealed that the combination of 2 kg B + 4 kg Zn ha⁻¹ (M1) with the ‘Early You’ variety (V2) produced the most significant improvements in plant height, leaf growth, stem length and diameter, and primary curd size. The combination of ‘Early variety’ and 2 kg B + 4 kg Zn ha⁻¹ treatment significantly reduced days to curd initiation and produced the highest yield per hectare (20.18 tons), outperforming the control treatment (13.01 tons). This combination also resulted in higher dry weight and greater nutritional density of the broccoli curds, emphasizing the critical role of B and Zn in promoting growth, structural robustness, and curd development. Both primary and secondary curd weights were notably enhanced under M1, particularly with ‘Early You’, highlighting the synergistic effect of variety-specific nutrient optimization. These results underscore the potential of tailored boron and zinc applications to address soil nutrient deficiencies and optimize broccoli production under Bangladesh’s unique agroecological conditions. By adopting the recommended M1 micronutrient treatment and prioritizing the ‘Early You’ variety, local farmers can achieve higher yields and improved broccoli quality, contributing to enhanced food security and economic sustainability in the region. This study provides a foundational framework for future research on nutrient management strategies in broccoli and serves as a model for other regions with similar soil nutrient constraints.

Intersectionality shapes the access to various adaptive resources in climate-vulnerable contexts

Abstract Intersectional approaches are becoming essential to understanding the differential impacts of climate change and the heterogeneity of adaptive capacities. Varying factors of social and economic privileges and inequalities synergistically shape the local power structure, ultimately determining disproportionality and unequal access to adaptive resources. Using empirical data from coastal Bangladesh, which is part of the Ganges Delta, and one of the world’s -most climate-vulnerable regions, this study shows how religion, gender, and ethnicity intersect with patterns in (i) farm and non-farm incomes, (ii) land conflicts, (iii) the size of farms, and (iv) access to critical sources of weather information. The study highlights that multilayered identity, which is shaped by various structural determinants, including local power structure, can determine gendered dimensions of access to various adaptation resources. It also shows that if policymakers and development partners partially understand or do not understand the complex landscape of local vulnerability or unequal power structures including the adaptive capacity of the vulnerable populations, they would not be able to provide critical support in times of crisis. The concept of intersectionality is therefore critical in addressing adaptation and risk management challenges for regions like the Ganges Delta and other parts of the world, where people are struggling with similar social and environmental challenges.

Unequal Power Relations at the Center of Social Vulnerability to Climate Change: Empirical Insights from Coastal Bangladesh

ABSTRACT Climate change is a global phenomenon affecting millions of people. Low-income people and communities are particularly at risk because of limited capacities to cope with climate-related stresses. Differential access to social and economic resources determines the level of adaptive potential; thus, the variations in social vulnerability to climate change. This article explores how unequal power relations influence the level of vulnerability in rural agrarian Bangladesh. Using data from the coastal region, it specifically discusses ethnicity, religion, gender, and farm size as the sources and manifestations of power relations in Bangladeshi rural society. I argue that the deeply rooted institutions of power in the country shape access to important resources that might increase adaptive capacity and thus resilience in the context of rapid climate change.

Displaced by nature, driven by choice: Exploring the factors influencing environmental migrants' habitat preferences in coastal Bangladesh

This study examines the factors influencing environmental migrants’ habitat preferences in southwestern Bangladesh. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, we selected 408 households in rural and urban areas, who had moved to their current locations due to climatic extremes. We applied relevant regression models to analyze the complex interplay of socioeconomic, environmental, and institutional factors shaping migration decisions. Our empirical results suggest that, despite having greater access to services in cities, migrants reported lower levels of well-being than their rural counterparts, which could be attributed to reduced social cohesion and limited opportunities for participation in decision-making. Disaster preparedness, early warning access, and prolonged exposure to environmental hazards significantly influence migration decisions and well-being. Protracted post-disaster suffering increases the likelihood of migration to urban slums, emphasizing the vulnerability of rural populations. Men are more likely than women to migrate to urban areas, possibly due to perceived employment opportunities. Surprisingly, while slum dwellers have better service access, their well-being scores are lower than rural residents. Access to education, healthcare, safe drinking water, and early warning systems are all crucial determinants of well-being. Policy recommendations include improving disaster preparedness and early warning systems in rural areas, developing targeted interventions for urban slum migrants focused on social cohesion and income diversification, and implementing gender-specific support programs. This research contributes to understanding environmental migration dynamics in Bangladesh and informs policymakers about sustainable resettlement strategies. Future studies should explore non-linear relationships and expand to diverse geographical contexts.

Drivers of adoption for integrated mangrove aquaculture: Its application for extensive smallholder shrimp farmers in Bangladesh

Integrated Mangrove Aquaculture (IMA) has the potential to simultaneously address the challenges of environmental degradation arising from conventional shrimp production, the expected impacts of climate change, and the growing global demand for shrimp. These challenges affect coastal livelihoods in Satkhira and Khulna districts of Bangladesh. However, IMA adoption in coastal Bangladesh so far remains low. This study explores the factors that influence IMA adoption by extensive smallholder shrimp farmers in Bangladesh using a questionnaire-based survey of 128 farmers. We identified potential drivers of adoption by combining exploratory data analysis and a logit regression analysis. Key findings were that lack of adoption appeared to be mainly attributed to a lack of awareness of IMA (65% of non-adopters were not aware of the existence of IMA), as well as a lack of trust in own required management skills and technical know-how. On the other hand, positive evaluation of IMA benefits and its main use as a risk mitigating strategy were the main enablers. The logit regression analysis indicated that perceived suitability of the pond to integrate IMA and availability of technical assistance were the factors most important to adoption, explaining respectively 30% and 26% of adoption. To enhance adoption of IMA and reduce the need for new pond excavation in mangrove stands, tailored technical training and social learning opportunities are required to increase awareness of IMA and its potential benefits, as well as for effective IMA management. Additionally, the development of new market opportunities for novel mangrove products is vital to foster incentives for adoption. Further work is needed on how to maximize the potential of IMA by thorough study of its various implementation options.

Climate-induced coastal occupational vulnerability and livelihood insecurity: Insights from coastal Bangladesh

The livelihoods of the fishing communities residing in the geographically vulnerable coastal zone are constantly threatened by escalating coastal disasters. The communities face persistent challenges, including livelihood failure, poverty, high exposure and sensitivity, and lower adaptive capacity, yet little attention has been paid to comprehending their multifaceted livelihood vulnerabilities amid climate-induced disasters. This study bridges that gap by employing several techniques to address the challenge. It adopts a mixed-method analysis and investigates the Livelihood Assessment Index (LAI), Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI), and Climate Vulnerability Index (CVI) to assess the livelihood vulnerability of fishing communities residing in the new and old fishery ghats (riverside locations where fishing-related activities take place) in Chattogram district in southern Bangladesh. Findings reveal that the fishing communities experience higher exposure levels and moderate vulnerability in the face of escalating climate-induced disasters. The overall LAI indicates a relatively low level of livelihood satisfaction, suggesting potential challenges or deficiencies in aspects contributing to well-being. Despite socioeconomic and demographic similarities, as LVI values present, the exposure varies between the two study locations. Both locations are characterized by moderate sensitivity, while the new fishery ghat showed slightly higher adaptive capacity, contributing to greater resilience. The CVI values indicated higher vulnerability for the new fishery ghat fishing community, suggesting increased challenges related to climate-induced threats, and the old ghat community exhibited lower vulnerability, showcasing better resilience to disasters. Factors influencing livelihood vulnerability include limited access to education and healthcare in the new fishery ghat, while the old fishery ghat benefits from better provisions, communication, and social networks. The study advocates for context-specific decision-making and targeted interventions to support vulnerable fishing communities in coastal zones globally, emphasizing the need for improved social safety nets and alternative livelihood options. Addressing these occupational vulnerabilities is crucial for long-term development in climate-risk countries like Bangladesh.

Salinity challenges and adaptive strategies in salinization-affected coastal Bangladesh: Implications for agricultural sustainability and water resource management

Abstract Salinization has become a rising global concern due to its notable effects on agriculture and freshwater resources. Coastal region of Bangladesh has been struggling with elevated levels of soil and water salinity, exacerbated by storm surges and rising sea levels. We assessed nutrient and salinity contents in agricultural and homestead lands, and the level of salinity in pond and canal water in six sub-districts in coastal Bangladesh. Finally, using household (HH) survey, focus group discussion (FGD) and key informant interview (KII), we explored the adaptive practices and challenges of salinity issues in agriculture and drinking water management. Soil nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium contents exhibited significant variations across the sub-districts, which reflect the diversity of agricultural practices and soil management strategies. However, there was no notable difference in soil salinity across the sub-districts, which underscores the commonality of soil salinity as a pressing concern. Shyamnagar (13.99 dS m−1) recorded the highest level of pond water salinity, followed by Assasuni (13.96 dS m−1), Dacope (13.91 dS m−1), Koyra (13.58 dS m−1), Morrelganj (13.33 dS m−1), and Mongla (13.19 dS m−1) sub-districts, which highlights that water salinity decreased from exposed coast to the landward areas. Respondents in HH surveys, FGDs and KIIs identified salinity as a major challenge in agriculture and drinking water. Furthermore, climate-related stresses were recognized as significant challenges impacting crop productivity. The research highlights the feasibility of rainwater harvesting, with 89%–100% of HHs harvest rainwater in HH tanks, as an effective adaptive practice for managing drinking water. The study emphasizes the positive impact of vermicompost in reducing soil salinity levels, which is demonstrated by the 43%–88% of HHs using this practice, indicating its potential as a nature-based solution to address soil salinization. The findings underscore the need for resilient agricultural systems and sustainable water management approaches to tackle these challenges.

A comparative study of the elevated radioactivity in beach placer deposits of Bangladesh.

Beach sediments are mineral deposits formed through weathering and erosion of either igneous or metamorphic rocks. Among the rock constituent minerals are some natural radionuclides that contribute to ionizing radiation exposure on Earth. Kolatoli and Kuakata are the two major beaches with heavy mineral deposits and important tourist sites in Bangladesh. Natural radioactivity in Kolatoli and Kuakata beach sand deposits along the southern coast of Bangladesh was assessed and compared to identify the sources, causes, and possible environmental impact. Result shows most of the radionuclides have higher activity concentrations than the background level, and the activity varies with the sample locations. The dominant radionuclides were found to be the radionuclides of thorium series i.e. Th-232 and Ra-228 followed by uranium series and K-40. The radioactivity in Kolatoli beach sands was observed to be much higher than Kuakata beach due to the presence of a higher content of heavy minerals i.e. illmenite, rutile, zircon, garnet and monazite. Furthermore, monazite and zircon are the two radioactive minerals that are considered to be the main contributors to the radioactivity in Kolatoli beach sand. These minerals are dominated by the activity of thorium series radionuclides i.e. Th-232 and Ra-228 surpass the activity of all other radionuclides such as U-238, U-234, Th-230, Ra-226, Po-210, and K-40. However, major contribution of radioactivity in Kuakata beach sand comes from uranium series radionuclides such as U-238, U-234, Ra-226, and Po-210. Beach morphology, sedimentological, and geochemical evolution of those minerals might be important areas of further study for the radioactivity monitoring activity in those areas.

Impact of shifting from rice to shrimp farming on migration aspirations in Bangladesh

AbstractThe Ganges–Brahmaputra–Meghna delta is one of the most populous deltas in the world, threatened by diverse environmental stressors, including salinity intrusion, causing adverse consequences on livelihood adaptation. Shrimp farming has been recognized as one of the most practiced livelihoods among various livelihood opportunities. Growing global demand and higher economic returns encouraged many farmers to convert their agricultural land to shrimp farms by intruding saline water into the farmlands to produce shrimps. In this study, we investigated whether the growing trend of shrimp farming influences the migration aspirations of the vulnerable coastal communities in Bangladesh. The study employed qualitative interviews with individuals in four villages in southwest coastal Bangladesh. Satellite images were analyzed to detect land-use changes and changes in soil salinity in the last 28 years, confirming a rapid increase in shrimp farms. Results from the qualitative interviews indicate that poor people with limited resources cannot produce paddy on their land because of increased soil salinity caused by shrimp farming. Such a situation leads them to aspire to migrate. Thus, our analysis contributes to the discourse on “aspiration and capability” in environmental migration by adding the impacts of land-use changes on livelihoods.

Assessing Vulnerability to Cyclone Hazards in the World’s Largest Mangrove Forest, The Sundarbans: A Geospatial Analysis

The Sundarbans is the world’s largest contiguous mangrove forest with an area of about 10,000 square kilometers and shared between Bangladesh and India. This world-renowned mangrove forest, located on the lower Ganges floodplain and facing the Bay of Bengal, has long served as a crucial barrier, shielding southern coastal Bangladesh from cyclone hazards. However, the Sundarbans mangrove ecosystem is now increasingly threatened by climate-induced hazards, particularly tropical cyclones originating from the Indian Ocean. To assess the cyclone vulnerability of this unique ecosystem, using geospatial techniques, we analyzed the damage caused by past cyclones and the subsequent recovery across three salinity zones, i.e., Oligohaline, Mesohaline, and Polyhaline. Our study also examined the relationship between cyclone intensity with the extent of damage and forest recovery. The findings of our study indicate that the Polyhaline zone, the largest in terms of area and with the lowest elevation, suffered the most significant damage from cyclones in the Sundarbans region, likely due to its proximity to the most cyclone paths. A correlation analysis revealed that cyclone damage positively correlated with wind speed and negatively correlated with the distance of landfall from the center of the Sundarbans. With the expectation of more extreme weather events in the near future, the Sundarbans mangrove forest faces a potentially devastating outlook unless both natural protection processes and human interventions are undertaken to safeguard this critical ecosystem.

Integrating machine learning algorithms and fuzzy AHP for assessing livelihood vulnerability in Southwestern Coastal Bangladesh

The people living in the coastal regions of Bangladesh rely significantly on nature for their livelihoods, which renders them sensitive to climate change. The aim of this study is to determine the key indicators which contribute more to livelihood vulnerability of disaster-prone Gabura union in southwestern coastal Bangladesh. To achieve this goal, three machine learning algorithms are employed for determining the key indicators of livelihood vulnerability. Subsequently, a livelihood vulnerability index (LVI) is constructed using these key indicators with the weighting of indicators facilitated by Fuzzy AHP method. And finally, a livelihood vulnerability map (LVM) is generated to visualize the spatial distribution and analysis of livelihood vulnerability within the union. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, including questionnaire surveys, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and remote sensing image analysis. A household survey of 950 households tracked livelihood vulnerability using 25 indicators across three domains of vulnerability, e.g., exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity. ArcGIS and Google Earth Engine facilitated spatial data analysis. The Gabura Union exposed high vulnerability (LVI 0.63), driven by elevated exposure (0.61) and sensitivity (0.59) and lower adaptive capacity (0.30). The Livelihood Vulnerability Map (LVM) illustrates vulnerability across wards of the union, emphasizing high vulnerability zones on the periphery of the union, along the Kopothakho and Kholpetua rivers while central part of the union shows a moderate vulnerability level. The study's novelty lies in effectively integrating multiple methods for livelihood vulnerability assessment. Policymakers should target interventions focusing on areas along the Kopothakho River, to enhance community resilience.

Climate change (Mal)adaptation in the Bangladesh’ Sundarbans – a Systematic Review

Bangladesh is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change. This vulnerability stems not only from its exposure to climate change and intensified extreme weather events but also from the way adaptation policies and projects have been designed using a technocratic, top-down approach. As a result, much of the adaptation has led to negative consequences for certain groups—often the most vulnerable—who depend directly on nature for their livelihoods. This outcome, known as maladaptation, has been particularly pronounced. This paper conducts a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature since 2014, the year when maladaptation first gained significant attention in the IPCC’s fifth report. The goal is to assess the current state of research on climate change adaptation in Southwestern coastal Bangladesh, particularly around the Sundarbans, the largest contiguous mangrove forest in the world. The review aims to identify research gaps and discuss key lessons learned. Keywords used in the review include 'maladaptation', 'barriers to adaptation', 'ecosystem-based adaptation', and 'gender', as these concepts are all interrelated to some degree. The review highlights significant research gaps across all topics, as well as a geographical imbalance in the distribution of studies within the region. Given the prevalence of maladaptation in Bangladesh, it is crucial that more research focuses on this issue to gather insights and reduce the risk of maladaptation in future climate change adaptation projects in the country.

A framework for appraising the status of disaster resilience within the multi-hazard environment of coastal Bangladesh

Fostering resilience is widely acknowledged as a crucial strategy for mitigating the escalating risks posed by climate-related disasters around the world. Resilience assessment plays a vital role in this endeavour by assessing the baseline level of resilience, identifying the key resilience factors, and monitoring progress towards building resilience with time. Given this context, and considering the evolving conceptualization of resilience, we devised a framework for appraising the status of resilience across the coastal region of Bangladesh. Our framework represents a significant scholarly contribution, as it encompasses a broad spectrum of resilience dimensions, including stability, recoverability, and transformability. To operationalize this framework, we selected thirty context-specific variables and organized them systematically around these three overarching components. Employing a simple weighted average methodology, we constructed sub-indices for each component, which were subsequently aggregated into a composite resilience index. For spatial visualization, our findings were mapped in a Geographic Information System (GIS) environment. Our analysis revealed Chattogram, Barguna, and Khulna as the most resilient districts. This manifests the potential for resilience enhancement even within areas exposed and inherently sensitive to multiple hazards through the optimal use of available resources. Notably, in the trio of districts, Barguna exhibited the highest stability index score, Chattogram showcased the highest recoverability score, and Khulna emerged with the top transformability index score. This finding underscores the significance of incorporating diverse capacities in resilience frameworks. These insights offer valuable guidance for refining resilience assessment frameworks in other developing countries of the world. Furthermore, the outcomes of our assessment can serve as a baseline for the coastal administrators of Bangladesh while developing disaster management policies and actions centering around fostering resilient communities. Thus, our study not only contributes to disaster theory, but holds practical implications for evidence-based decision-making to secure a more resilient future of the coastal communities of Bangladesh.

Livelihood Analysis of People Involved in Fish-Drying Practices on the Southwest Coast of Bangladesh

The southwest coast, specifically the Khulna region of Bangladesh, has seen a substantial increase in the production of dried fish, involving marginalized coastal people. This study uses a mixed methods approach and the sustainable livelihood approach (SLA) to assess these fish-drying communities’ socioeconomic characteristics, ways of living, and adaptability. Due to their lower literacy, irregular wages, and labor-intensive employment, the research outcomes indicated that the communities engaged in the drying process were economically disadvantaged. Male workers exhibited a relatively higher participation rate compared to females. However, it was observed that females had less power over their wages and earned less than USD 2.74–3.65 per day compared to males at USD 3.65–5.48 per day. Even though there were a lot of opportunities for employment, the survey showed that very few vendors, manufacturers, and laborers regarded themselves as financially independent. To cope with various impacts and obstacles, off-season earnings, a variety of fish species, drying facilities, dealer associations, and social relationships were crucial for dried-fish processors, workers, and traders. The research suggests implementing suitable measures to diversify alternative sources of income and emphasizes the importance of fostering strong collaboration among the communities, local management authorities, and the government. With regard to dry-fish approaches, these steps are essential for ensuring long-term sustainability and improving community resilience among coastal communities.

Assessment of heavy metals and proximate composition in jellyfish (Lobonemoides robustus Stiasny, 1920) collected from Cox's Bazar coast: Human health risk assessment

Jellyfish are known for experiencing periodic blooms in population, which occur when their density increases suddenly. The present study assessed the level of heavy metals and proximate composition in the jellyfish Lobonemoides robustus collected from Cox's Bazar coast of Bangladesh. This is the first study conducted in Bangladesh. Most of the studied metals were not possible to detect in L. robustus samples because concentrations were below the detection limit. Ca, Na, Se, and Mg were found to have safe levels in the L. robustus while the amount of Pb was recorded 0.39 ppm. The findings of Target Hazard Quotient, and Carcinogenic Risk indicate that the L. robustus is safe for human consumption (both for children and adults). Hence, it is suitable for consumption and can be exported. This study emphasizes the need for regular marine environment monitoring to ensure that the seafood harvested from these waters is safe for consumption.

An Assessment of Tropical Cyclone Frequency in the Bay of Bengal and Its Impact on Coastal Bangladesh

This study examines the frequency of tropical cyclones in the Bay of Bengal and their impact on Bangladesh. The extent of environmental harm led to the selection of two specific areas: the Panpatty Union and Galachipa Upzilla in the Patuakhali district, and the Sariakat Union and Swandip Upzilla in the Chittagong district. The results indicate that cyclonic storms are more common in May and November. The results also demonstrate that the studied regions are vulnerable to the effects of tropical cyclones and suffer significant consequences. The differences in influence between the two locations are statistically significant with a confidence level of 90%. The findings have significant ramifications for policymaking decisions.

Assessing health hazards of dried fish consumption from coastal markets in a developing nation

Dried fish is a crucial protein source for coastal populations in developing countries, but it is becoming increasingly contaminated with heavy metals due to the use of traditional drying methods. This study assessed Cd, Cr, Pb, and Mn levels and their health risks in four commonly consumed dried fish species (Harpodon nehereus, Trichiurus lepturus, Penaeus affinis, and Amblypharyngodon mola) from the central coast of Bangladesh. Results showed Mn levels (17.47 ± 4.69 mg/kg) exceeded FAO limits (4.35 mg/kg), with the highest concentrations in H. nehereus. Cd levels (0.24 ± 0.16 mg/kg) in A. mola were also above safety thresholds. Lead was found in all species except P. affinis, with the highest concentration in A. mola (0.432 ± 0.06 mg/kg), which was within safe limits. Risk assessments revealed higher health risks for children, with elevated Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Hazard Index (HI) values compared to adults. H. nehereus had the highest THQ values for Cr (0.0014 mg/kg) and Mn (0.00044 mg/kg). Multivariate analyses indicated contamination from both anthropogenic and natural sources. The study stressed the need for better monitoring and mitigation to ensure the safety and nutritional value of dried fish.

Stability and heavy metals accumulation of soil aggregates under different land uses in the southwest coastal Bangladesh

Agricultural soil contamination is increasing day-by-day and becoming a major problem over the globe. Trace elements accumulation in the bulk soil is frequently documented, however, there is no precise mechanism of their distribution in the different soil aggregates level. We collected twelve composite soil samples from banana fields, fallow land, rice cultivated with pond water (rice field-I), and rice cultivated with rain water (rice field-II). We separated soil samples into four different size of aggregates (4-2, 2–0.25, 0.25–0.053, <0.053-mm) and then, aggregate stability (MWD), soil organic carbon (SOC), and heavy metals content (Pb, Cd, Cr, As, Fe, Mn, Zn, Ni, Co, Cu) in the soil samples were measured with different techniques. Results showed that MWD was higher in the rice-based land use, which was significantly contributed by SOC (p < 0.001). The concentration of Pb, As, Cd, Fe, and Mn were increased, while Cu and Zn concentration were reduced with increasing aggregate size (p < 0.05). In contrast, aggregate size did not influence on Ni and Co accumulation (p > 0.05). Moreover, macroaggregate acted as an accumulator for Fe, Mn, and As, while all the aggregate fractions acted as accumulators for Cu and Zn. Our study indicated that MWD, SOC, aggregate size and composition, and metal species were the controlling factors of trace elements accumulation and distribution in the various sizes of soil aggregates.

Adapting to Adversity: Unraveling the nexus between vulnerability and well-being in coastal Bangladesh

As climate change intensifies multi-dimensional vulnerabilities in coastal Bangladesh, understanding its impact on household well-being becomes crucial. This study empirically investigates how climatic extreme event-triggered (super-cyclone Amphan) vulnerabilities affect at-risk households' well-being in the Southwestern coastal zone. Deploying a systematic random sampling procedure, we collected data from 747 households using a structured questionnaire from seven disaster-affected Unions (i.e., sub-districts) from three districts, namely Khulna, Satkhira, and Bagerhat. The findings reveal that diverse demographic, socioeconomic, sociopolitical, disaster-preparedness, environmental, and locational factors influence multi-dimensional vulnerabilities in the study areas. Notably, these vulnerabilities significantly affected post-cyclone well-being, measured by consumption expenditure. Acquaintances with local political leaders (OR = 6.028, p < 0.05), participation in disaster-preparedness training (OR = 2.63, p < 0.01), and timely evacuation decisions (OR = 2.57, p < 0.01) emerged as key determinants of better household well-being following cyclone-disaster. Intriguingly, households with stronger political connections exhibited higher participation in disaster-preparedness training (z = 4.60, p < 0.000) and evacuation rates to safe havens (Chi2(1) = 5.14, p < 0.02). The study proposes three policy recommendations based on these empirical insights, paving the way for enhanced resilience and adaptive capacity in coastal Bangladesh communities facing the challenges of climate change.

Determinants of household income and livelihood sustainability of coastal regions: evidence from south-western Bangladesh

The coast of south-western Bangladesh has been facing an increasing severity of climate stressors, thereby affecting the livelihoods of households. This has necessitated the importance of understanding the complex aspects of their sustainability. This study investigates factors influencing household income and livelihood sustainability of coastal residents in southwestern Bangladesh. A survey was carried out among 300 heads of households from the Kailashganj and Laudubi villages under Dacope sub-district of Khulna district (a climate-sensitive region) in Bangladesh. We utilized the composite livelihood sustainability index (LSI) and multiple linear regression to identify the factors influencing coastal households’ income. Findings revealed that the overall LSI among the households was 0.663 (moderate sustainability). Additionally, the highest LSI was found in terms of social capital and the lowest LSI was identified in terms of financial capital. The findings of the regression analysis indicated that monthly household income was positively and significantly influenced by its close linkages to local leaders (p < 0.05) and association with non-governmental organizations (p < 0.01). Moreover, economically active members (p < 0.01), more accessibility of commuting transportation (p < 0.01), and availability of water for irrigation (p < 0.01) were positively and significantly derived the monthly household income. Policymakers can use these results as a basis for formulating policies (e.g., enhancing the training and skill development programs as well as prioritizing investment in expanding irrigation systems) that can address the essential livelihood and income requirements of the community that is affected by climate change.