Framing ecosystem-based adaptation to climate change : applicability in the coast of Bangladesh

The recent increase in exposure to natural hazards among the communities of Bangladesh is linked to the new generation of threats posed by climate variability and change resulting from anthropogenic activity. Adaptation is not a new approach, but there are still a number of challenges inherent in adaptation and in building resilience to climate-induced threats. This documents emphasizes the adoption of ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) to climate change: restoration, enhancement, conservation and wise use of natural resources with the engagement of local communities so as to enable natural ecosystems to function properly and deliver services, which in turns builds societal resilience to the impacts of climate change. This report describes six different types of EbA currently being practiced in the coastal zone of Bangladesh, and an analysis is made in line with the ecosystem services derived from such ecosystem-based interventions. Finally, the report suggests approaches for effective planning, design and implementation of EbA schemes aimed at building social-ecological resilience.