Climate Justice Leadership by Bangladesh

Focus on the significance of South Asia and particularly Bangladesh for Australian climate action.

Home to one-fourth of humanity, South Asia is highly climate-vulnerable.
Socio-economic vulnerabilities impact hundreds of millions in South Asia.
South Asian coastal regions face severe risks from cyclones, flooding, and rising sea levels.
Highlight of small and vulnerable countries in South Asia, focusing on Bangladesh's initiatives and global support.

Bangladesh, with a population of about 173 million, is the second-largest economy in South Asia.
Bangladesh's leadership in adapting to climate change is notable, with increasing cyclones, floods, and sea-level rise.
The country champions the 'loss and damage' funding, a financial assistance program for affected nations.
Criticism of Australia's lack of contributions to the 'Loss and Damage' mechanism and need for action towards vulnerable countries.

Personal reflection by Sadia Binte Karim on the duality of Bangladesh as a beautiful yet vulnerable homeland.
Bangladesh: Largest mangrove forest (Sundarbans) and over 900 rivers make it ecologically rich but also vulnerable to climate extremes.
Discussion of delayed climate action from the Global North and its detrimental impact on Bangladesh.

Bangladeshi climate vulnerability is exacerbated by socio-economic issues.
The country is low-lying, increasing its susceptibility to natural disasters like cyclones and coastal flooding.
Millions face the direct impacts of climate change, with significant socio-economic implications.

Size: 147,570 sq km, similar to Nepal but with a population six times larger.
2022 Census: 173.6 million; 20% live in coastlines heavily impacted by climate change.
Urban vs Rural: 40% urban; 60% rural. Increasing internal displacement due to climate events altering distributions.
Youth Population: 28% are youth (around 45.9 million).
GDP: $437.42 billion in 2023, ranking 25th globally.

Bangladesh contributes only 0.3% to global emissions, ranking 146th for CO2 emissions.
Per capita emissions are 0.607 tonnes, significantly lower than India.

185 extreme weather events recorded, including tropical cyclones and floods.
Economic losses from cyclones estimated at $1 billion/year (0.7% of GDP).
Climate events have displaced around 7.1 million people in 2022 due to floods, extreme weather leading to urban migrations.

Daily shifts of 2000 people move to Dhaka due to climate factors, estimating future displacements at 13.3 million due to climate change by 2050.

A sea level rise of 30 to 45 cm forecasted to displace 35 million people.
By 2050, expected loss of 17% of territory and 30% of agricultural land, leading to severe food security issues.
Saline water intrusion affecting drinking water and health, with predictions of increased diseases.

Australian Bangladeshi diaspora: 51,491 individuals.
Emphasis on the disproportionate effects of climate change on Bangladeshis versus their contribution to the problem.

Professor Saleemul Huq's work in advocating loss and damage funding has positioned Bangladesh as a leader in climate justice.
The concept that loss and damage funding is not aid, but a call for accountability from the causes of climate issues.

2005-2023 timeline detailing Bangladesh's advocacy for climate reparations and the establishment of mechanisms for loss and damage.

First developing country with a coordinated action plan since 2009, leader in solar energy uptake through household systems.
Engagement with international organizations for addressing climate justice at the ICJ.

Australia's aim to support Pacific countries but gaps in action towards South Asia, including Bangladesh.
Australia cited as having the world’s largest coal export pipeline.

Urging Australia to phase out fossil fuels, improve climate finance commitments, and contribute to global loss and damage funding.

Suggested actions for Australian climate groups to support South Asian climate justice, including sharing stories and standing with Bangladesh at COP events.

Bangladesh's extreme vulnerability to climate change despite contributing minimally to global emissions.
Local-led adaptation successes amidst economic challenges due to climate events.
Urgent needs for loss and damage funding from Australia and global entities.
Australia's duty to recognize its climate responsibilities towards Bangladesh and the wider South Asian context.
Engage the South Asian diaspora in Australia to amplify calls for climate justice.

The brief concludes with affirmation of Sapna's initiative for climate solidarity in the South Asian diaspora in Australia, inviting follow-up and engagement actions for climate justice.