Bangladesh faces significant environmental challenges due to its geographical vulnerability to climate change impacts and environmental degradation. The country’s riverine landscape, densely populated coastal areas, and limited capacity to address environmental changes have exposed millions of people to various hazards like floods, storms, and pollution. Shifts in climate patterns have had a noticeable impact on lives and livelihoods, with Bangladesh ranking 13th globally in the Long-Term Climate Risk Index. In the past two decades, 185 extreme weather events have led to 11,450 deaths and substantial economic losses. The deteriorating environmental conditions also pose a threat to social stability, emphasizing the growing importance of environmental considerations in national policy discussions.
Despite these challenges, Bangladesh has shown progress in environmental governance over the last two decades. Efforts have been made to acknowledge the country’s environmental vulnerability and establish robust institutional frameworks to address environmental issues. The adoption of the Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (BCCSAP) in 2009 marked a significant step in outlining priorities for climate adaptation, mitigation, and capacity building. Subsequent measures such as the Environment Court Act and the creation of the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Fund have further demonstrated the commitment to addressing climate-related challenges.
In recent years, environmental protection received constitutional recognition through Article 18A, emphasizing the state’s responsibility to safeguard natural resources and biodiversity. The development of the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 aims to manage water resources and land use effectively to mitigate flood and salinity risks in specific hotspots. However, the momentum in environmental governance faced a setback during the interim government’s tenure from August 2024 to February 2026. Allocations to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in the national budget remained below optimal levels, affecting environmental initiatives’ implementation and effectiveness.
The period under the interim government saw lapses in regulatory enforcement, leading to incidents of ecological damage and resource exploitation. With the new government in power, there is an opportunity to revitalize environmental governance through commitments outlined in the election manifesto. Initiatives such as tree planting, waste management, pollution control, and river restoration underscore the government’s intention to enhance environmental sustainability. However, translating these commitments into a comprehensive governance framework with robust regulatory enforcement and adequate funding remains a key challenge.
To ensure sustainable outcomes, the government must strengthen regulatory institutions, enhance inter-ministerial coordination, and secure consistent environmental financing. While Bangladesh has laid a strong policy foundation for environmental governance, effective institutional implementation is crucial for long-term sustainability. The return of elected leadership provides a chance to restore momentum in environmental governance and steer the country towards a resilient and sustainable future.