Citation: Raihan, S., Iffah, K. (2024). BIMSTEC Cooperation for Addressing Environmental and Climate Change Challenges. SANEM-The Asia Foundation Policy Brief. November 2024. SANEM Publications. Dhaka.
In the context of environmental and climate change challenges, this study explores how regional cooperation can address them across BIMSTEC member states. The analysis reveals that while these countries collectively emit greenhouse gases at levels below the global per capita average, they face significant environmental challenges including rising sea levels, increasing temperatures, erratic monsoons, and intensified cyclones. The data shows concerning trends: a consistent increase in greenhouse gas emissions, declining renewable energy consumption across all member states, and varying patterns in forest cover. The study highlights how BIMSTEC has established mechanisms to address these challenges, including the Joint Working Group on Environment and Climate Change (JWG-ECC) and the BIMSTEC Centre for Weather and Climate (BCWC). However, regional tensions, such as the Teesta water-sharing dispute and the Rohingya refugee crisis, pose challenges to collaborative efforts. Based on the findings, the study suggests the following policy recommendations- developing a unified regional adaptation plan, transitioning to renewable energy, expanding joint climate resilience efforts, promoting sustainable land-use practices, providing technical assistance, resolving geopolitical tensions, and standardizing environmental policies across the region.
