Adaptation to Climate Change: Bangladesh

Beginning AugustThe monsoon rains lightenand paddy is planted.

End AugustTorrential monsoon rains return. Paddy is washedaway. Floodwater enters house. Lose possessions.

Mid SeptemberThe rains stop. Borrowmoney to buy more seeds. Re-plant paddy.

End SeptemberUnexpected monsoon rains return, heavier than before.Several homes are washed away, some villagers die, many children get diarrhoea.

OctoberIn debt. Borrow more money for medicine and paddy seed.Family is poorer and weaker to cope with more extreme weather.

JulyMonsoon rains are heavier than usual. Floodwater enters the house. Some possessions are washed away.

a) Describe the ways in which the Bangladeshi population are adapting to climate change

b) Explain why climate change adaptation in Bangladesh is so reliant on foreign aid.