In the aftermath of COP29, Bangladesh is grappling with severe environmental challenges that have been exacerbated by climate change. The country's air quality has been ranked among the worst in the world, contributing to a public health crisis that has seen dengue fever deaths peak in recent months. The Global Climate Risk Index 2021 places Bangladesh seventh in terms of disaster risk, underscoring the urgent need for effective environmental governance [042e1254].
The interim government, led by Prof Muhammad Yunus, has prioritized addressing these environmental issues, with adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan focusing on tackling pollution and the pervasive problem of single-use plastics. Despite the commitments made at COP29, where $300 billion was pledged for developing countries, Bangladesh's climate financing remains inadequate to meet the pressing needs of its population [042e1254].
To enhance its climate resilience, the Bangladesh Climate and Development Platform has been launched to attract private investment in sustainable initiatives. Key international financial institutions, including the IMF, World Bank, and ADB, are involved in various climate initiatives aimed at supporting the country's adaptation efforts [042e1254].
A report released in July 2024 has labeled the air quality crisis in Bangladesh as a 'trilemma,' indicating that the interplay of environmental degradation, public health, and economic stability poses a significant threat to the nation. Given Bangladesh's geographical vulnerabilities, urgent action is needed to prevent further displacement and economic disruption caused by climate-related events [042e1254].