BETWINNER：The impact of land degradation in Bangladesh on the economy
The impact of land degradation in Bangladesh on the economy
Bangladesh is a country based on agriculture, and land resources are crucial for its economic development. However, the problem of land degradation is becoming increasingly serious, which has a significant impact on the country’s economy and society. Land degradation mainly refers to the decline in soil quality, depletion of water resources, and destruction of vegetation due to human activities and natural factors, which are particularly prominent in Bangladesh. First, land degradation directly affects agricultural production. About 60% of Bangladesh’s labor force is engaged in agriculture, and the continuous and healthy development of this field depends on good soil conditions. However, due to over-cultivation, excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, soil fertility has been declining year by year, leading to a sharp decrease in crop yieldsBETWINNER. For example, the reduction in the yield of staple crops such as wheat and rice not only reduces farmers’ income but also increases the instability of food supply, thereby causing inflation and poverty issues. Second, land degradation also threatens the sustainability of water resources. Over-exploitation and unreasonable drainage systems in the process of urbanization have made it impossible for rainwater to effectively seep into the ground, exacerbating soil erosion. At the same time, the water level of the underground is declining, leading to an increasing demand for agricultural irrigation. The scarcity of water resources not only affects agriculture but may also limit industrial development, further restricting economic growth. In addition, land degradation has also given rise to social problems. A large number of farmers have lost their livelihoods due to the decline in land quality and have been forced to migrate to cities in search of new opportunities, leading to a rapid increase in urban populationNational. This rapid urbanization has intensified the pressure on urban infrastructure, causing difficulties in the development of health, education, and employment. In the city, due to increased competition, many people still face unemployment and low-income problems, forming a vicious cycle. Finally, land degradation has had a serious impact on the ecological environment, which in turn affects the sustainable development of the economy. The degradation of ecosystems such as the reduction in biodiversity leads to an increase in the frequency of natural disasters such as floods and droughts, making the economy more vulnerable. In the long run, solving the problem of land degradation has become the key to ensuring the stability and development of Bangladesh’s economy. In response to these issues, Bangladesh needs to take a series of measures, including promoting sustainable agricultural technologies, strengthening environmental protection awareness, and improving water management systems, to mitigate the impact of land degradation on the economy. At the same time, the international community should also provide more support to help Bangladesh jointly meet this severe challenge. Only through comprehensive management can Bangladesh achieve sustainable economic development and the harmonious coexistence of the ecological environment.
