Bangladesh and Pakistan are among the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events and changing rainfall patterns threaten lives, economies and ecosystems. But what does climate vulnerability actually look like on the ground?
1. CO₂ Emissions and Their Impact
Despite accounting for only 0.56% (Bangladesh) and 0.67% (Pakistan) of global CO₂ emissions, both countries are disproportionately affected by climate change. Increased greenhouse gas emissions have led to stronger monsoons, prolonged droughts and rising sea levels.
Key figures:
Global CO₂ emissions (2023): 36.8 billion metric tons
Annual CO₂ emissions in Bangladesh (2023): ~120 million metric tons
Annual CO₂ emissions in Pakistan (2023): ~180 million metric tons
2. Earthquakes and climate disasters
Although earthquakes are not directly caused by climate change, their impact is exacerbated by weakened infrastructure due to flooding and heat. In October 2023, a 6.3 magnitude earthquake in western Afghanistan struck parts of Pakistan, killing over 1,000 people.
3. Floods: The cost of climate change
Flooding has become more severe due to erratic monsoon rains.
Bangladesh: In 2022, floods displaced 7.2 million people in Sylhet and Sunamganj districts.
Pakistan: The 2022 floods inundated a third of the country, killing more than 1,700 people and causing $30 billion in damage.
“Every year our fields are washed away. How can we survive?” – Farmer in Sindh, Pakistan.
4. The rising cost of climate disasters
Both countries spend billions each year on climate resilience, but losses continue to mount.
5. What’s next?
Climate resilience requires immediate action. Investments in green energy, better infrastructure and early warning systems can reduce the risks. But without global efforts to reduce emissions, Bangladesh and Pakistan will continue to bear the brunt of a crisis they did not cause.
The climate crisis is not a threat in the future – it is happening now. Will the world act before it is too late?
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