Bangladesh is a country already on the frontlines of climate change, experiencing growing salinity and water scarcity in coastal areas, more frequent and intense natural disasters, and erratic rainfall patterns.

Our Climate Resilience programme collaborates with communities and local authorities to introduce inclusive methods for evaluating vulnerability to climate change and disasters. Drawing from local wisdom and traditional coping mechanisms, we're developing cost-effective and versatile disaster-resilient technologies. Additionally, we're facilitating comprehensive local planning that extends beyond WASH sectors to encompass health, livelihoods, and education. This approach encourages integrated solutions for more resilient and adaptable communities. 

Active projects under climate resilience programme

Scaling up access to WASH – building a resilient and sustainable apparel sector

Improving access to WASH services for RMG industry and workers is a two-year project implemented by WaterAid and funded by Lindex to improve well-being of the RMG worker.

lindex image

Promoting Climate Resilient WASH technology in Southwest Bangladesh

Woman-led water entrepreneurship model established for affordable safe water supply; increased access to safe drinking water and improved sanitation for marginalised.

spf project

Stop the Stigma: Empowering menstruating girls in Bangladesh

Girls & young women, including those with disabilities, empowered with menstrual health knowledge; access improved MHM supportive WASH & menstrual products.

stop the stigma

Amader Kalaroa

Installation of community water facilities; organizing events and campaigns for sustainable management; building community and duty bearer capacity on water quality.

Amader Kalaroa

Promoting water replenishment and WASH services

Newly established WASH facilities enhance community resilience to climate shocks; maintenance models ensure prolonged functionality. Promote rainwater harvesting.

Image: WaterAid/ Drik/ Tapash Paul

Collective Impact on the Future of Work in Bangladesh

Improved safe drinking water and sanitation, COVID-19 vulnerability reduced with handwashing access and awareness; enhanced hygiene in worker communities.

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Image: WaterAid/ Fabeha Monir

Enabling communities with WASH for better future

Enhance access to safe water and sanitation in schools; improve WASH in healthcare facilities; increase sanitation access for vulnerable groups.

Bhetkhali

Supporting Local Democratic Governance and Climate Resilient Public Service Provision in Bangladesh

Image: WaterAid/ Fabeha Monir

Focusing on Bangladesh's most vulnerable populations, the programme will target climate-affected areas including saline coastal regions in the south, drought-prone areas in the central north, and floodplains across central, north, and northeastern regions. While the programme prioritises these areas, it acknowledges the potential for climate change impacts to manifest anywhere in the country. This includes issues like increased rural-urban migration leading to unplanned urbanisation and straining public services. Ultimately, the programme's reach will encompass both rural and urban contexts depending on where climate change drives WASH crises. Expansion into isolated char lands (river islands) and haor (seasonal wetlands), however, will depend on resource availability and political support.