Decarbonizing Dhaka Metropolitan for a Cooler Future

Dhaka, Bangladesh || Sunday, 15 September 2024 || 31 Bhadro 1431

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Decarbonizing Dhaka Metropolitan for a Cooler Future

S M Faiyaz Hossain

Published : Thursday, 23 May, 2024 at 8:11 PM, Count : 1402

Decarbonizing Dhaka Metropolitan for a Cooler Future

The bustling metropolis of Dhaka, Bangladesh, faces a dual challenge: rapid urbanization and a changing climate. As the city continues to grow, so do its carbon emissions and the associated urban heat island effect, making life increasingly uncomfortable and unsustainable for its residents. However, a concerted effort to decarbonize Dhaka Metropolitan holds the promise of not only mitigating these challenges but also paving the way for a cooler, more resilient future.

At the heart of decarbonization lies the transition to clean energy sources and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Dhaka's transportation sector, a significant contributor to air pollution and carbon emissions, can be transformed through the adoption of electric vehicles, expansion of public transportation networks, and the promotion of cycling and walking. Furthermore, the city's industries must embrace cleaner technologies and energy-efficient practices, while buildings should be designed or retrofitted to minimize energy consumption.

These efforts to reduce emissions will not only combat climate change but also have a direct impact on mitigating the urban heat island effect. This phenomenon, caused by the replacement of natural surfaces with heat-absorbing materials like concrete and asphalt, exacerbates temperatures within the city. By increasing green spaces, such as parks and rooftop gardens, Dhaka can enhance its ability to absorb carbon dioxide, provide shade, and cool the surrounding environment through evapotranspiration.

Additionally, implementing cool roofs and pavements, which reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional materials, can further lower surface temperatures and contribute to a more comfortable urban environment. The creation and maintenance of urban water bodies, like ponds and lakes, can also provide evaporative cooling and enhance the city's aesthetic appeal.

Decarbonization efforts in Dhaka will not only reduce temperatures but also improve air quality. By transitioning away from fossil fuels, the city can reduce the emission of harmful pollutants, leading to cleaner air and improved public health outcomes. This, in turn, can contribute to a cooler climate, as pollutants like black carbon absorb sunlight and contribute to warming.

A decarbonized Dhaka would be better equipped to withstand the impacts of climate change, including extreme heat events and flooding. By mitigating the urban heat island effect and reducing emissions, the city can create a more resilient environment that is better able to adapt to future climate scenarios.

While the path to decarbonization is fraught with challenges, including the need for significant investment in infrastructure and public awareness campaigns, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. A cooler, cleaner, and more resilient Dhaka would not only improve the quality of life for its residents but also serve as a model for other rapidly urbanizing cities in the developing world. By embracing decarbonization as a core strategy, Dhaka can chart a course towards a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come.

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