Bangladesh faces alarming levels of pollution and health risks, says World Bank report
Bangladesh is grappling with severe pollution and health risks, particularly impacting vulnerable populations like the poor, children, and the elderly, according to a newly released World Bank report.
The Grim Reality of Environmental Health Risks
Bangladesh is currently facing a crisis of epic proportions when it comes to pollution and environmental health risks. The most vulnerable members of society, including the poor, children under 5, the elderly, and women, are bearing the brunt of this dire situation. A recent report by the World Bank, the Bangladesh Country Environmental Analysis, has shed light on the severity of the issue.
The report reveals that a staggering 272,000 premature deaths and 5.2 billion days of illness occur annually in Bangladesh due to factors such as air pollution, unsafe water, poor sanitation, hygiene, and lead exposure. These environmental hazards have taken a toll equivalent to 17.6 percent of the country's GDP in 2019, painting a grim picture of the impact on both human health and the economy.
- Air pollution, both indoors and outdoors, has emerged as a major culprit, contributing to nearly 55 percent of premature deaths in Bangladesh. The economic cost of these deaths alone accounted for 8.32 percent of the GDP in 2019.
Environmental Risks: A Development Imperative
Abdoulaye Seck, the Country Director for Bhutan and Bangladesh at the World Bank, emphasized the urgent need for Bangladesh to tackle environmental risks as a top development and economic priority. He highlighted the critical interplay between economic growth and environmental sustainability, stressing that a country cannot thrive if it compromises its natural surroundings.
Seck remarked, "We have seen around the world that when economic growth comes at the cost of the environment, it cannot sustain. But it is possible to grow cleaner and greener without growing slower." His words underscore the essential balance that Bangladesh must strike to ensure sustainable growth while safeguarding the environment for future generations.
The report underscores the significant impact of environmental pollution on children, with lead poisoning posing a particularly grave threat to their cognitive development. Household emissions from cooking with solid fuels further exacerbate air pollution, disproportionately affecting women and children in the country.
Urgent Interventions for a Healthier Future
The situation is dire, but not all hope is lost. Timely and urgent interventions in key areas such as air pollution control, water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), and lead exposure management could prevent over 133,000 premature deaths annually in Bangladesh. Investments in cleaner power generation, clean cooking fuels, and stricter industrial emission controls are crucial steps in mitigating the impact of environmental hazards.
According to Ana Luisa Gomes Lima, a Senior Environmental Specialist at the World Bank and co-author of the report, Bangladesh has the potential to reverse its environmental degradation trend with the right policies and actions in place. Strengthening environmental regulations, promoting clean cooking practices, scaling up green financing, establishing efficient carbon markets, and raising awareness are key strategies to combat pollution and foster green growth in the country.
The report not only identifies environmental priorities and interventions but also offers recommendations to enhance governance and institutional capacity for effective environmental management. By setting evidence-based priorities, diversifying policy instruments, strengthening institutional capacity, and fostering an enabling environment for green financing, Bangladesh can protect its environment and pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.
It is imperative for Bangladesh to act swiftly and decisively to address the pressing environmental challenges plaguing the nation. The health and well-being of its citizens, particularly the most vulnerable groups, depend on concerted efforts to combat pollution, promote sustainable practices, and safeguard the environment for generations to come.
Source Source Hi, Ali Rahman in the house! From Chittagong, Bangladesh, I've been on a wild ride from Banskhali Bangabandhu High School to Govt. Alaol College and beyond, landing me at National University. Now, I'm here to dish out the lowdown on national issues and global news. Stick around for a fresh take on what's shaking up our world! Connect With Me