Unpacking Climate Change Adaptation Strategies: A Case Study of Salinity Adaptation of Vegetables Production in Coastal Areas of Chittagong, Bangladesh

Abstract

Nowadays climate change is one of the greatest threats to human life and livelihoods around the globe. Bangladesh is one of the countries that are most vulnerable to climate change, especially in the coastal areas. The study was conducted in coastal areas of Chittagong such as Halishahar, Kejurtola, Patenga, and Guliakhali. The objective of this study was to identify the types of vegetables that grow in coastal areas based on the seasons. Find out the adaptation strategies that farmers use to deal with climate change problems like heavy rainfall, flooding, sea level rise, and salinity in coastal areas of Chittagong, Bangladesh. The study used both qualitative and quantitative data analysis to make an efficient and effective analysis for the betterment of adaptation practices on vegetable production. The study found that most farmers in 18 different locations faced problems such as flooding, salinity, sea level rise, insects, and diseases that damage the vegetables. Few farmers already applied good adaptation practices to adapt to such issues, however, most of the farmers still need help in terms of training, knowledge, financial and seed support, and other materials to develop their crop production and adapt to climate change issues. Salinity ranges from 1.140 uS/cm to 1.586 uS/cm, and pH ranges from 5-7, which shows that the result of selected areas will not hinder the growth of vegetables. However, requested farmers to grow salt-tolerant vegetables and switch the vegetables are always needed. Future research needs to carry out continuously for similar or related topics in coastal areas to find out the problems and provide an effective solution to those who are living in coastal areas of Chittagong, Bangladesh as well as other countries.