NGOs demand climate compensation, adaptation funding for Bangladesh

Non-governmental organizations (NGO) in Bangladesh called on the government to intensify diplomatic efforts to secure climate compensation and increased adaptation funding from developed countries.

They argued that Bangladesh is among the nations, most severely affected by climate change despite contributing minimally to global carbon emissions.

The demand was raised at a “Rooftop Gardening Promotion and Heat Stroke Awareness Workshop” jointly organized by Young Women for Development Rights and Climate (YWDRC) and Nari Unnayan Shakti in Dhaka on Friday, marking World Environment Day.

Speakers said rising sea levels, river erosion, floods, cyclones, heatwaves, droughts, salinity intrusion, and declining agricultural productivity are causing widespread displacement and economic hardship across Bangladesh. They stressed that developed countries, which bear greater responsibility for global warming, must provide adequate financial support to climate-vulnerable nations.

The NGO leaders urged the government to:
Strengthen diplomatic initiatives to secure climate compensation from major carbon-emitting countriesEnsure adequate allocation for Bangladesh from the international Loss and Damage FundMobilize global climate finance for rehabilitation of people affected by floods, cyclones, river erosion, droughts, and heatwavesExpand international support for housing, employment, and social protection for climate refugeesEstablish a dedicated climate fund for afforestation, rooftop gardening, and urban greeningIncrease investment in renewable energy, green technologies, and carbon-emission reduction projectsSecure special financing for climate-resilient agriculture, safe water supply, and coastal protection, andStrengthen international cooperation on public awareness, healthcare, and heatstroke prevention.
The speakers emphasized that countries most responsible for environmental degradation and global warming should bear the financial responsibility for climate adaptation, environmental protection, and rehabilitation efforts in affected nations such as Bangladesh. They also pledged to expand rooftop gardening and environmental conservation initiatives across the country, said a press release on Saturday.