About This Project

Mohammad Rakibul Hasan

The Blue Fig

Climate change’s adverse effects are undeniably profound and global. However, Bangladesh is a glaring example of how some nations endure a much higher toll than others. Nestled in the world’s largest delta, this country faces the double-edged sword of sea-level rise and a heightened frequency of natural calamities like cyclones and tidal waves. The very sea that sustains millions of its coastal inhabitants by providing livelihoods threatens their existence, making Bangladesh a tragic epitome of the direct repercussions of global warming. While countries like Bangladesh bear the brunt of climate change, a culture of rampant consumerism in affluent nations exacerbates the crisis. Studies have shown that up to 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions arise from the products we consume. Developed countries have a significantly larger carbon footprint; for instance, the US, Luxemburg, and Australia produce carbon emissions many times higher than the world average. This excessive consumption is not without consequences. The Amazon rainforest, vital for carbon absorption and global ecological balance, has been ravaged by bushfires and deforestation. Much of this destruction is tied to industrial agriculture, especially meat production. Consumer-driven industries are willing to decimate forests, jeopardizing our collective future for short-term gains. Bangladesh’s Sundarbans Forest, spread over 10,000 square kilometers, is emblematic of the grave threats of climate change. This ecological marvel, housing diverse species, and the iconic Bengal tiger, lies at the confluence of three mighty rivers, making it acutely susceptible to rising sea levels. Projected to rise by up to a meter by century’s end, these increased sea levels, combined with more frequent extreme weather events, imperil the forest and the surrounding communities. Reliant on the Sundarbans for fishing, agriculture, and more, they face the prospects of food and water scarcity, loss of homes, and grave health implications. The plight of these communities underscores the urgency for global action against climate change, which should transition from mere discussions to tangible actions.

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