Author: Tanveer Ahmed, Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (Ongoing), Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology, Bangladesh. Contact: aseerahsan37@gmail.com
Image: Bayejid Mahbub Khondker, Junaid Hasan Pranto, City Syntax, Via Arc Daily
Key Words: Green Infrastructure, Sustainable Development, Ecosystem Services, Climate Resilience, Bangladesh
Background
In the pursuit of sustainable development, the concept of green infrastructure has emerged as a cornerstone, emphasizing the integration of natural components into built environments to enhance environmental quality and human well-being. Green infrastructure encompasses a range of natural and semi-natural features, including parks, green roofs, wetlands, and urban forests, which provide multiple benefits such as flood mitigation, air purification, and recreational opportunities.
Central to the concept of green infrastructure are ecosystem services, the multiple benefits that humans derive from nature, ranging from provisioning services like food and water to regulating services such as climate regulation (regulation of global temperature, precipitation, and other biologically mediated climatic processes at global or local levels) and flood control. Ecosystem services underpin the functioning of ecosystems and play a vital role in supporting socio-economic activities and human well-being. Recognizing the importance of ecosystem services is crucial for informing sustainable development strategies and ensuring the long-term resilience of communities and ecosystems.
In the green landscape of Bangladesh, where the lush greenery whispers tales of resilience and growth, the concept of green infrastructure has taken root with promising vigor. Situated in the delta region of South Asia, Bangladesh faces a myriad of environmental challenges, from rising sea levels to extreme weather events. This nation, cradled by the mighty rivers of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna, faces a paradoxical challenge: sustaining rapid economic development while preserving its rich but vulnerable ecosystem. The burgeoning population and economic activities exert immense pressure on natural resources, making the integration of ecosystem services not just a choice but a necessity for sustainable development.
This article explores Bangladesh’s pioneering efforts in harnessing ecosystem services, addressing the challenges faced, and offering recommendations for a more sustainable future.
Global and National Context
The implementation of green infrastructure projects across various regions serves as a testament to the growing recognition of nature’s role in urban development. Cities around the world are integrating green roofs, permeable pavements, and urban forests to enhance resilience to climate change, mitigate urban heat island effects, and improve air and water quality. These projects such as High Line Park, USA; Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay; and Bosco Verticale, Italy, not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also create vibrant, livable spaces for communities to thrive.
Bangladesh has been actively working towards enhancing its green infrastructure. The nation has launched the Bangladesh Climate and Development Platform (BCDP) to leverage investments in adaptation and mitigation efforts. This initiative aims to integrate climate and green dimensions into public procurement and planning and to incentivize locally-led climate actions. Additionally, Bangladesh is navigating a transition to clean energy, with plans to increase its renewable energy sources from 3.5% to 40% over the next two decades [Integrated Energy and Power Master Plan (IEPMP) 2023]. These efforts reflect a strong commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The Karupannya Rangpur Factory in Rangpur stands out as a shining example of environmentally conscious architecture within the rug weaving industry. This factory, as described by Sen et al. (2022), embodies a ‘green’ architectural paradigm by seamlessly blending natural elements and traditional wisdom to enhance both environmental sustainability and energy efficiency. Encompassing an impressive area of 27,870 square meters and primarily employing local women, the factory has achieved a remarkable 80% reduction in electricity consumption. Its design prioritizes sustainable water management, utilizing reservoirs for dyeing processes, and embraces a circular economy model by repurposing cotton and garment waste into yarn. Moreover, the incorporation of green walls, rooftop gardens, and an efficient effluent treatment plant not only aids in biodiversity conservation but also fosters a pleasant and conducive working environment. By integrating features like Nandini Park and traditional rural motifs, the factory seamlessly marries modernity with cultural heritage, creating a sustainable and visually appealing workspace.
Issues within the Country
In Bangladesh, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of incorporating nature-based solutions (NbS) into policy and planning to address climate change adaptation, protect natural ecosystems, and conserve biodiversity. These solutions include the preservation of coastal mangroves, reforestation in hilly regions, and the creation of green spaces in urban areas. However, despite the acknowledgement of these benefits in policy documents, there is often a gap in the direct mention of NbS terminology and specific implementation guidelines.
At the policy level, challenges include the need for robust financial support and institutional mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating NbS initiatives. There is also a need for enhanced inter-ministry cooperation and the development of national funding support to facilitate effective and inclusive NbS interventions.
Design and implementation challenges stem from rapid land use changes that threaten the country’s remaining forests, which are crucial for the poor and act as a protection against climate change. Additionally, the lack of capacities of banks and financial institutions, underdeveloped equity and bond markets, and a limited understanding of the risks and returns of green projects hamper the expected growth of green infrastructure.
Moreover, there is a significant need to raise awareness about the benefits of integrating ecosystem services into infrastructure projects. This includes educating stakeholders on the long-term economic, environmental, and social advantages of such an approach, which can often be overshadowed by short-term gains from traditional development practices.
The ongoing development trajectory in Bangladesh often overlooks the incorporation of green innovations into infrastructure projects. Back in 2014, Dr. Robert Costanza and his research team highlighted in their paper titled “Changes in the global value of ecosystem services” that infrastructure has the potential to offer three key ecosystem services: climate regulation, water regulation, and recreational opportunities. Integration of green innovations can amplify more ecosystem services, expanding their positive impact while also addressing the growing need for sustainable settlement solutions in the future.
Recommendations
Addressing these pressing issues and harnessing the potential of ecosystem services for sustainable development requires a multi-faceted approach involving government, civil society, and the private sector. Firstly, robust policy frameworks such as Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan 2009, Bangladesh Country Investment Plan for Environment, Forestry and Climate Change (2016 – 2021), and National Adaptation Plan of Bangladesh (2023‐2050), need to integrate ecosystem-based approaches into development planning, recognizing the value of ecosystem services and incorporating them into economic assessments and decision-making processes. This can be achieved by conducting comprehensive assessments of the key ecosystem services that support the local economy. Prioritizing these services based on their importance to community well-being, understanding their current conditions and trends, and evaluating the trade-offs involved in various development scenarios are essential steps. Additionally, it’s important to appraise the existing institutional and cultural frameworks that influence ecosystem management, ensuring that governance structures and cultural practices are conducive to sustainable management. Finally, the integration process culminates in the preparation of informed policy decisions that reflect the economic value of ecosystem services, leading to the implementation of changes such as policy reforms, investment in natural infrastructure, or community-based management plans, all aimed at fostering a resilient and sustainable development pathway.
Investments in ecosystem restoration and conservation are imperative to safeguard critical habitats and enhance resilience to climate change. It can come from the national government, international bodies, or NGOs in the form of donations. Additionally, promoting community-based approaches that empower local stakeholders in natural resource management fosters ownership and ensures the sustainability of conservation efforts. Urban planning should incorporate green corridors and rooftop gardens to mitigate the heat island effect. Planting more trees to mitigate heatwaves or reducing climate change impact is not the solution. Planting the right trees, more specifically the indigenous ones, is one of the solutions.
Enhancing awareness and education on the importance of ecosystems and sustainable living practices is crucial for fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. Environmental education programs in schools, awareness campaigns, and community engagement initiatives can empower individuals to take action and contribute to conservation efforts.
Call for Action
As global citizens, we have a collective responsibility to safeguard our planet and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. In the context of Bangladesh, there are several actionable steps individuals and organizations can take to contribute to the preservation of ecosystem services. Supporting grassroots initiatives and conservation projects, advocating for policy reforms, and adopting eco-friendly practices in daily life are tangible ways to make a positive impact.
Furthermore, raising awareness about the interconnections between ecosystems, human well-being, and sustainable development is crucial for fostering a culture of environmental consciousness. By working together and taking proactive measures, we can harness the green heart of development in Bangladesh and beyond, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future.
The time for action is now. Each individual, community, and institution in Bangladesh has a role to play. Let us join hands to ensure that the heart of Bangladesh’s development beats in harmony with the rhythm of nature. Together, we can pioneer a future where green infrastructure and ecosystem services thrive, safeguarding the prosperity and beauty of Bangladesh for generations to come.