Anthropogenic Impact on the Environment in Bangladesh

Abstract

Possibly the greatest danger threatening Bangladesh currently is the disastrous land of the foundation of life, the disastrous land of our environment. This catastrophe is not limited to Bangladesh, but, as we know, is worldwide problem bred by ignorance and greed. An important point to be kept in mind is that demographic tendencies, the protection of the environment and a lasting economic development are closely connected and policies must aim at creating balanced objectives among these fields. Forestry plays a significant role in Bangladesh, contributing to the livelihood and subsistence needs of the predominantly rural population. It provides a source of energy, supplies forest products such as fuelwood, fodder, timber, poles, thatching grass, medicinal herbs, construction materials and contributes to the conservation and improvement of the country’s environment. About 2.6 million ha or 18% of Bangladesh’s total land area of 14.8 million ha is categorized as forestland which includes state forestland (2.2 million ha) and private homestead forest (0.27 million ha). Roughly 80 % of the landmass is made up of fertile alluvial lowland called the Bangladesh Plain. They are quickly disappearing due to the savage urbanization. The protection of these fertile lands constitutes a first priority because their disappearance will lead to a natural catastrophe for the development of agriculture. Furthermore, the pollution due to solid wastes and pesticides requires a serious control over the quality and the quantity of the products used. In addition, the loss of species in Bangladesh is an almost irreversible process that inevitably will result in tremendous ecological havoc.