Impact of climate change on agri-food production and dietary diversity in southern Bangladesh

Abstract

Bangladesh’s agri-food systems face significant threats from climate change, impacting production, dietary diversity, and farmer resilience. This study evaluates climate change's effects on agri-food production, consumption, and mitigation strategies across five climate-vulnerable districts in southern Bangladesh. Surveys of 768 farmers, conducted from May to July 2023 using validated questionnaires and KoBo collect, revealed that 90% experienced crop losses due to cyclones, floods, droughts, and diseases, with an average of 2.5 events per condition in the past decade. Aquatic food production was most affected, reducing dietary diversity for 82% of households, though 76% recovered within a year. Farmers adopted adaptive strategies, including new crop varieties and improved waterbody management. This research highlights the need for climate-resilient policies and further studies to strengthen agrifood systems in South Asia.