Environmental Problem and Economic Impact of Bangladesh

1. Abstract:

This term paper explores the environmental challenges faced by Bangladesh and their associated economic impacts. Bangladesh, a densely populated country in South Asia, confronts numerous environmental issues, including climate change, water pollution, air pollution, deforestation, and overpopulation. These problems have far-reaching consequences on the country's economy, affecting agriculture, public health, productivity, infrastructure, and natural resources. The paper analyzes the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to these environmental problems.

2. Introduction:

Bangladesh possesses one of the highest population densities globally and has witnessed a remarkable increase in its population size, growing by more than 2.5 times since 1972. Additionally, it is projected that the population will reach 200 million people by 2050, which will have significant implications for environmental dynamics. The surge in population has been accompanied by urbanization and industrialization, placing immense pressure on environmental quality and natural resources. Consequences such as air, water, and soil pollution have emerged, posing threats to ecosystems, public health, and economic growth. The ensuing paragraphs outline the primary environmental challenges that Bangladesh confronts as a result of these population and economic transformations.

3. Environmental Problem of Bangladesh: [i]

The environmental challenges experienced by a nation are influenced by factors such as its level of development, economic structure, production methods, and environmental policies. For example, less developed countries often struggle with issues like insufficient sanitation and access to clean drinking water due to limited economic progress. On the other hand, developed countries may face problems like air and water pollution resulting from industrialization. Bangladesh confronts numerous environmental issues that have notable economic repercussions. The key environmental problems in Bangladesh include the following:

Water pollution: Water pollution in Bangladesh stems primarily from industrial discharges, municipal waste, agrochemicals, salinity intrusion, and arsenic contamination. Consequently, these factors have significantly deteriorated the quality of rivers over the years, posing a persistent problem. Specifically, surface water pollution in Bangladesh is largely caused by land-based activities such as industrial effluents, agrochemical usage and fecal contamination. Industries like tanneries, fabric dyeing and chemical processing, fabric washing, garments, and plastic products, which are situated along the riverbanks, contribute to river water pollution. Additionally, sewage and municipal solid waste often find their way into rivers through sewerage lines. Another significant concern is the presence of arsenic contamination in drinking water sources, affecting many areas of Bangladesh.

Air Pollution: Bangladesh faces a significant air pollution problem, particularly in urban areas. The major contributors to air pollution in the country include industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, brick kilns, biomass burning, and household cooking fuels. The rapid industrialization in Bangladesh has resulted in the release of harmful pollutants into the air. Traditional brick kilns, which are prevalent in Bangladesh, utilize inefficient combustion methods, such as burning coal or biomass, leading to high emissions of particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and other pollutants. These brick kilns contribute significantly to air pollution, especially during the dry season. In many households, solid fuels such as wood, agricultural residues, and cow dung are used for cooking and heating purposes. The burning of these fuels in traditional stoves or open fires results in indoor air pollution, which can have severe health implications, especially for women and children.

Solid and Hazardous Wastes: Bangladesh faces significant challenges regarding solid and hazardous waste management. The country's rapid population growth, urbanization, and industrialization have contributed to the generation of substantial amounts of waste. The increasing urban population and inadequate waste management infrastructure have led to the accumulation of municipal solid waste in cities and towns. Improperly managed waste can contaminate water sources, emit greenhouse gases, and provide breeding grounds for disease vectors. With the rise in electronic devices' consumption, the generation of electronic waste (e-waste) has become a pressing issue. E-waste contains hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can pollute the environment if not properly managed. Informal recycling operations often dismantle e-waste without proper safety measures, leading to the release of toxic substances. The widespread use of single-use plastics and inadequate recycling infrastructure contribute to plastic pollution in water bodies, landfills, and public spaces.

Deforestation: Deforestation is a significant environmental issue in Bangladesh, leading to various ecological and socio-economic consequences. The conversion of forests into agricultural land, particularly for rice cultivation and commercial crops, is a major driver of deforestation in Bangladesh. Illegal logging and unsustainable timber extraction for commercial purposes contribute to deforestation, particularly in hilly and forested regions. Rapid urbanization and the expansion of infrastructure, including roads, settlements, and industries, often result in the clearing of forests and vegetation. High dependence on fuelwood and charcoal for cooking and heating purposes leads to the cutting down of trees, especially in rural areas.

Soil Degradation: Soil degradation is a significant environmental problem in Bangladesh, posing challenges to agricultural productivity, food security, and rural livelihoods. Intense rainfall and inadequate soil conservation practices lead to water erosion, causing the loss of fertile topsoil. This is especially prevalent in hilly areas and flood-prone regions. Bangladesh's extensive coastline is prone to salinization, where saline water intrudes into agricultural lands, rendering them unsuitable for cultivation. Inappropriate irrigation practices, including excessive use of groundwater and inadequate drainage systems, contribute to soil salinization in some regions. Extensive use of chemical fertilizers without proper nutrient management practices leads to nutrient imbalances in the soil, depleting essential elements and reducing soil fertility over time. Uncontrolled livestock grazing, especially in rural areas, can lead to overgrazing, which results in soil compaction, loss of vegetation cover, and erosion, leading to degraded soils.

Loss of Biodiversity: Bangladesh is experiencing a loss of biodiversity, posing significant ecological and socio-economic challenges. The clearing of forests for agriculture, urbanization, and infrastructure development results in the loss of natural habitats and disrupts ecosystems. Conversion of wetlands for agriculture, aquaculture, and industrial purposes leads to the loss of critical wetland ecosystems and their associated biodiversity. Discharge of industrial effluents and waste into water bodies, including rivers and coastal areas, leads to water pollution and negatively impacts aquatic biodiversity. Improper disposal of solid waste, including plastic, in water bodies and coastal areas contributes to pollution and affects marine biodiversity. Unsustainable hunting and poaching of wildlife, driven by demand for bushmeat, traditional medicine, and exotic pets, result in the depletion of vulnerable species. Bangladesh is a transit route for illegal wildlife trade, including trafficking of endangered species, further threatening biodiversity.

4. Causes of environmental problem in Bangladesh:

The environmental problems in Bangladesh are influenced by various factors. Rapid population growth, poverty, limited resources, unplanned and rapid urbanization, industrialization, negative agricultural practices, inadequate waste management, lack of environmental awareness, and weak enforcement and regulations are key causes contributing to the environmental issues in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh has a high population density, and rapid population growth exerts pressure on natural resources, leading to increased demand for food, water, and energy, and resulting in environmental degradation. Widespread poverty and limited access to resources drive unsustainable practices, such as deforestation for fuelwood, overfishing, and improper waste management, as communities prioritize immediate needs over long-term environmental sustainability. Rapid urbanization and the growth of cities lead to unplanned settlements, increased demand for infrastructure, and inadequate waste management systems. This results in pollution, encroachment on natural habitats, and the loss of green spaces. Industrial activities, including textiles, chemicals, and manufacturing, contribute to air and water pollution. Inadequate waste treatment facilities and non-compliance with environmental regulations exacerbate pollution levels. Intensive agricultural practices, including excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, contribute to soil and water pollution. Deforestation for agricultural expansion also leads to habitat loss and biodiversity decline. Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as sea-level rise, increased frequency and intensity of floods and cyclones, and changing rainfall patterns. These climate-related events contribute to environmental degradation and loss of ecosystems. Inefficient waste management systems, limited waste collection services, and inadequate recycling infrastructure result in improper disposal of solid and hazardous waste, leading to pollution of land, water, and air. Limited awareness and understanding of environmental issues among the general population and inadequate education on sustainable practices contribute to the persistence of environmental problems. Inconsistent enforcement of environmental regulations and weak institutional capacity to monitor and address environmental violations lead to non-compliance by industries and individuals.

5. Economic impact of environmental problem in Bangladesh:

Bangladesh has faced severe environmental degradation and natural capital loss over the past decades affecting human health, agriculture, forests, fisheries, industrial productivity, and environmental services. It is estimated at least 19 million Bangladeshis are dependent on forests for their livelihoods. Rapid land use changes threaten the country’s remaining forests, a safety net for the poor and in the face of increasing soil salinity in coastal areas, protection against climate change. Economic loss from environmental degradation stands at approximately $6.5 billion per year, which is 3.4 percent of Bangladesh’s annual GDP. Air and water pollution caused nearly 28 per cent of deaths in Bangladesh. According to Environmental Performance Index (EPI) report, Bangladesh ranked 162nd out of 180 most polluted countries. [ii]

Air pollution is a serious environment health hazard affecting the population of major cities of Bangladesh. Bangladesh incurs an annual economic loss of $14 billion as a result of air pollution. The cost of air pollution, primarily attributed to the burning of fossil fuels, is estimated to be around $2.9 trillion annually, accounting for approximately 3.3 percent of the global gross domestic product (GDP). However, in the case of Bangladesh, this cost surpasses 5 percent of its GDP.[iii]

Even though Bangladesh accounts for a mere 0.56% of global emissions contributing to climate change, it is ranked seventh among the countries most susceptible to climate-related disasters. The vulnerability of Bangladesh is not merely theoretical but has tangible consequences. The data reveals that between 2000 and 2019, the country experienced 185 extreme weather events and incurred economic losses amounting to $3.72 billion, all attributed to the impacts of climate change.[iv]

Water pollution creates serious health hazards for Bangladesh. Every day around 700 tanneries of Dhaka city discharge approximately 16000 cubic meters of toxic wastes in rivers. The indiscriminate discharge of solid waste, both domestic and hospital wastes are the major sources of water pollution in Bangladesh. Approximately 4000 tons of solid wastes are generated daily and only half of the generated wastes are disposed of in low lying areas or into rivers. Hospitals and clinics in Dhaka city generate and release hazardous and toxic wastes without any treatment.[v]

Water pollution leads to a decline in fish populations, affecting the livelihoods of millions of people dependent on the fishing industry. It reduces fish catches and harms the aquaculture sector, which contributes significantly to the country's economy.

Water pollution increases the incidence of waterborne diseases, such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid. The consequent rise in healthcare costs and productivity losses due to illness can burden the economy. Frequent flooding and cyclones damage crops, leading to reduced agricultural yields and income losses for farmers. The agriculture sector, being a significant contributor to the country's GDP, faces substantial setbacks.

Climate-induced displacement forces people to leave their homes and seek refuge elsewhere. This migration puts strain on urban areas, affecting social and economic stability.

6. Environmental Laws of Bangladesh to protect environmental degradation: [vi]

The combatting of the pressing needs of the environment cannot be met without an effective legal framework and its proper implementation. Bangladesh has implemented several environmental laws and regulations to address and manage environmental issues in the country. Here are some key environmental laws and acts of Bangladesh:

The Environment Conservation Act 1995: The Environmental Conservation Act serves as the foundation for the establishment of the Department of Environment and the appointment of the Director General (DG), as well as the implementation of Environmental Impact Assessments and the identification of Ecologically Critical Areas. The Act is accompanied by the Environmental Conservation Rules, which specify the criteria and regulations for air quality, water quality, and other environmental components. However, the Act has faced criticism for granting extensive powers to the DG without clearly defining the required technical qualifications of relevant officials, inadequate sentencing provisions, and for leaving loopholes related to "national interest" and "good faith".

The Environment Court Act 2010: The objective of the Act is to ensure expeditious resolution of cases pertaining to environmental damage. However, the efficiency of the courts is impeded by the fact that individuals cannot directly approach the court. Instead, it is required for an investigator appointed by the Director General (DG) of the Department of Environment to file a report, upon which legal action can be initiated. The goal of establishing an environment court in every district, as envisioned by the Act, has largely remained unaccomplished.

The Forest Act 1927: The primary intention behind the enactment of this Act was to regulate the transportation of forest products and impose taxes on such activities. However, it also includes provisions that aim to protect and conserve forest resources. The Act prohibits certain activities within reserved forests and imposes penalties for violations of these provisions. Additionally, the Act envisages the establishment of village forests, which could serve as a means to encourage community participation and uphold community rights. Regrettably, the implementation of this provision has been largely lacking in practice.

The Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act 2012: With the objective of preserving the biodiversity, wildlife, and forests of the nation, this relatively recent legislation was enacted. The Act provides provisions for the designation of sanctuaries, national parks, and community conservation areas, outlining the permissible activities within these areas. Notably, the Act demonstrates an admirable feature by acknowledging the significance of national heritage, memorial trees, and sacred trees, while simultaneously respecting the traditional values and cultural norms of local communities. This represents a significant stride towards recognizing and upholding the rights of indigenous communities.

The Brick Manufacturing and Brick Kilns Establishment (Control) Act 2013: This Act aimed to regulate the process of brick manufacturing. The Act imposes various limitations on the locations where brick kilns can be established, which have faced criticism for being overly ambitious and, to some extent, impractical. Moreover, the Act establishes prohibitions on the use of raw materials obtained from sources like agricultural land, hills, or hillocks, as well as the use of wood as a fuel. Unfortunately, the current situation reveals a lack of adherence to these provisions, with minimal compliance observed.

The Bangladesh Biodiversity Act 2017: Aligned with the constitutional mandate of Bangladesh as stated in Article 18A and international obligations under the Convention on Biodiversity, this Act was enacted. It aims to govern the access to biological resources and traditional knowledge, as well as the lawful transfer of such resources and knowledge. The Act assigns the responsibility of granting access permissions to the National Biodiversity Committee, which is also entrusted with the task of determining the fair distribution of benefits derived from biodiversity, biological resources, and traditional knowledge.

Environment Court Act. 2000: The act is passed to establish Environment Court for speedy disposal of cases concerning environmental offences as defined in the Environmental Law.

Environmental Pollution Control ordinance 1997: Major components of this ordinance is including national water quality standards according to the WHO guidelines, air quality standards, noise, solid waste management.

Apart from these Acts, there are many other laws which indirectly address environmental concerns. For example, Wildlife (Preservation) Act 1973, Marine Fisheries ordinance 1983 all of these contain provisions which have environmental impacts. Urban planning has been addressed in the Playgrounds, Open Spaces, Parks and Natural Reservoirs and Preservation Act 2000 and air pollution is specifically targeted in the Clean Air Bill.

7. Challenges to application of Act and law to protect environmental degradation:

Despite the existence of a substantial number of environmental laws, several challenges persist in their effective implementation. These challenges encompass various aspects such as lack of specificity, procedural complexities, inadequate accountability mechanisms, influence from partisan state apparatuses, and a lack of environmental awareness among the general public. The environmental laws often lack clarity in terms of their content and fail to incorporate the essential notion of exercising power with corresponding responsibility.

A significant challenge is the lack of awareness and environmental consciousness among the general population. Many people may not fully understand the importance of environmental protection or the consequences of environmental degradation, which can hinder effective implementation of environmental laws. The capacity of institutions responsible for implementing and enforcing environmental laws in Bangladesh may be limited. This can include insufficient human resources, technical expertise, and financial resources, which may hamper their ability to effectively address environmental issues. Weak enforcement mechanisms and limited monitoring and inspection capabilities contribute to challenges in ensuring compliance with environmental laws. The lack of stringent penalties and ineffective monitoring systems may allow violations to go unchecked. Corruption and lack of accountability within regulatory bodies can undermine the effective implementation of environmental laws. Instances of bribery, collusion, and improper influence can weaken the enforcement process and hinder efforts to combat environmental degradation. Lengthy and complex bureaucratic procedures can delay the application of environmental laws. This can result in slow decision-making processes, prolonging the resolution of environmental issues and impeding timely action. The involvement and participation of the public, including local communities and civil society organizations, are crucial for effective implementation of environmental laws. However, limited public participation and engagement can hinder the identification and resolution of environmental problems at the grassroots level.

8. Recommendation:

Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from the government, civil society, and other stakeholders. Strengthening institutional capacity, raising awareness, promoting transparency and accountability, streamlining procedures, and fostering public participation are essential for the effective application of environmental laws to protect against environmental degradation in Bangladesh.

Review and update existing environmental laws and regulations to ensure they are comprehensive, enforceable, and aligned with international standards. Address any gaps and ambiguities to enhance their effectiveness in addressing environmental challenges.

Strengthen enforcement mechanisms, including monitoring, inspection, and penalties for non-compliance. Increase the capacity and resources of regulatory bodies responsible for enforcing environmental laws to ensure effective implementation.

Launch awareness campaigns to educate the public about the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable practices. Encourage environmental education in schools and universities to foster a sense of responsibility and consciousness among the population.

Foster active involvement of communities, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders in decision-making processes related to environmental protection. Promote transparency, inclusivity, and meaningful engagement in policy development and implementation.

Invest in building the capacity of government agencies and institutions responsible for environmental management. Provide training, technical support, and adequate resources to enhance their effectiveness in addressing environmental challenges.

Implement sustainable land and forest management practices, including reforestation, afforestation, and land restoration programs. Promote community-based forest management and involve local communities in sustainable land-use practices.

Promote the adoption of clean and renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Encourage the use of energy-efficient technologies and promote sustainable practices in industries and households.

Implement strict regulations and monitoring systems to control water and air pollution. Encourage industries to adopt cleaner production processes and invest in wastewater treatment facilities. Strengthen vehicle emission standards and promote public transportation and electric vehicles.

Develop and implement climate change adaptation strategies to address the impacts of rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and other climate-related challenges. Invest in resilient infrastructure and promote climate-resilient agricultural practices.

Collaborate with international organizations, donor agencies, and neighboring countries to share knowledge, resources, and best practices in environmental protection. Engage in regional and global initiatives to address transboundary environmental issues.

9. Conclusion:

Bangladesh is confronted with a wide range of environmental challenges that significantly affect its economy. To safeguard the environment and alleviate its economic repercussions, it is imperative to bolster environmental governance, raise public awareness, and foster sustainable practices. Through addressing these challenges and implementing effective measures, Bangladesh can actively pursue a greener and more sustainable future, wherein economic growth harmonizes with environmental preservation. This approach will not only enhance the quality of life for its citizens but also preserve natural resources for the well-being of future generations.

10. References:

[i] The Economics of Development and Planning, M.L. Jhingan, 40th revised and enlarged edition

[ii] Creating a Green and Sustainable Growth Path for Bangladesh, feature story, June 8, 2022, World Bank

[iii] Toxic Air: The Price of Fossil Fuels, February 12, 2020, Greenpeace Southeast Asia and the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air

[iv] Global Climate Risk Index 2021, 25 January 2021, ?Germanatch

[v] Environmental pollution in Bangladesh and its effects, Towfique Hassan, 06 May 2022, The Business Post

[vi] Country Environmental Analysis for Bangladesh, Asian Development Bank