Climate change in Bangladesh

Global climate change affects Bangladesh to a greater than average extent. An understanding of the basics is important in order to be able to address the impacts of climate change with appropriate measures..

To describe the climate and the way in which it is changing in a particular region, parameters such as temperature and precipitation are analysed over 30-year periods. These measurements are used to calculate the long-term average values on the one hand, and to determine the ranges of fluctuation and extreme values on the other.

Since industrialisation, the average global temperature has risen. In Bangladesh, the climate has warmed by about 2°C since measurements began in 1950. The number of hot days has increased significantly. Climate models, which simulate the processes in the climate system and thus allow conclusions to be drawn about the causes of past climate change and future scenarios, show that climate change will continue into the future. Its severity depends on the emission scenarios for greenhouse gases and aerosols.

Climate change can be contained through global efforts to reduce emissions. However, its consequences are already in evidence today within natural systems as well as in industry and society. That is why it is also imperative that a country such as Bangladesh adapts to climate change and takes steps to tackle these impacts appropriately and in sufficient measure.

A noticeable reduction in precipitation during the summer months is expected in the future. Although we are still experiencing a similar amount of rainfall on an average rainy day in summer as in the past, there are now more days without rain. The longest dry period in summer may last about a week longer on average by the middle of the century.

A noticeable reduction in precipitation during the summer months is expected in the future. Although we are still experiencing a similar amount of rainfall on an average rainy day in summer as in the past, there are now more days without rain. The longest dry period in summer may last about a week longer on average by the middle of the century.