Bangladesh

An overwhelming majority of scientists agree that global warming is a reality, it is already happening and that it is the result of our activities and not a natural occurrence.

There is now no doubt that the Earth’s climate is changing, and while debates rage and reports continue to be written, the people of Bangladesh are experiencing the consequences of human induced climate change.

"If fire takes your home you are left with the ashes. If water takes your home you are left with nothing at all" A Bangladeshi proverb.

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Bangladesh, a low-lying country slightly larger than England in size, is renowned as the most densely populated country in the world. Home to 150 million people, Bangladesh is also one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change - particularly increases in sea level. 

About 80% of the country consists of floodplain with an elevation from less than one metre to three metres above sea level.

Approximately 21% of the population, (31.5 million people), live in the coastal regions, these extremely vulnerable people are already noticing the changes in the environment around them. High tides now regularly inundate homes and the land is becoming salty. Fresh water is becoming scarce and the intensity of land erosion is increasing.

Desperately trying to hang on to homes, possessions and livelihoods these people have not heard of the term ‘climate change’. Unaware of the causes behind the changes in their environment and unaware of the predicted consequences, the impact of what we understand as climate change is already changing lives. A movement of people has already begun.

All images © Paul Dixon.