Food Security Vulnerabilities in the Southern Coastal Regions of Bangladesh Amidst Climate Change

Author(s): Md. Saddam Hossain, Sworup Kumar Singha, Md. Ahsan Habib

Publication Date: December 30, 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of climate change on agriculture and food security in the southern coastal regions of Bangladesh, focusing on the Khulna and Bagerhat districts. It identifies adaptation strategies adopted by local farmers and evaluates their effectiveness and adoption rates. Logistic regression analysis reveals that higher household income significantly reduces food insecurity, with each 1% increase in income lowering the odds by 41%. Conversely, larger households face greater vulnerability, with each additional member increasing the odds by 24%. Higher education and crop diversity reduce food insecurity by 29% and 32%, respectively, while access to climate information lowers the likelihood by 52%. Major adaptation strategies include crop diversification, saline-resistant varieties, improved irrigation, agroforestry, and community-based resource management. However, financial constraints, limited knowledge, and inadequate infrastructure hinder their broader adoption. The study is limited to two districts, which may not represent the entire southern coastal region, and self-reported data may introduce bias. Findings underscore the importance of targeted financial aid, better climate information access, infrastructure investment, and education and training initiatives. Strengthening policy and institutional frameworks is essential to improve resilience and ensure food security in vulnerable coastal communities.