Collaboration Overview
The collaborative efforts of three renowned public universities, namely Khulna University (KU), Karlstad University (KaU), Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), and North South University, along with the active involvement of the Centre for Injury Prevention and Research, Bangladesh (CIPRB), have brought together a multidisciplinary team to investigate the profound implications of climate change on health, with a specific focus on the mental wellbeing of communities residing in the coastal zones of Bangladesh.
This groundbreaking collaboration aims to explore the complex relationship between climate change, extreme weather events, and mental health, shedding light on the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and identifying strategies for adaptation and resilience-building.
The coastal areas of Bangladesh, well-known for their ecological significance, are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change. Rising sea levels, increased intensity of storms, and changing weather patterns have significant implications for the physical and mental health of the coastal communities. Recognizing the urgency and significance of this issue, the partnering universities and CIPRB have joined forces to undertake a comprehensive research initiative that addresses the complex interplay between climate change and mental health in this vulnerable region.
By leveraging the expertise of various disciplines, including environmental science, disaster risk management, epidemiology, and public health, the team aims to investigate the nuanced pathways through which climate change-induced disruptions affect health, particularly mental health. This includes exploring the physical, psychological, and emotional ramifications of extreme weather events, such as storms, floods, and cyclones, as well as examining the long-term consequences of climate change-related stressors on the health of individuals and communities.
Through rigorous data collection, analysis, and engagement with local stakeholders, the collaborative research effort seeks to generate evidence-based insights that can inform policy and interventions aimed at mitigating the adverse health impacts of climate change in the coastal zones of Bangladesh. By combining academic expertise, local knowledge, and the active involvement of the community, this collaborative initiative aspires to make significant contributions to both research and practice, fostering sustainable and resilient approaches to safeguarding the health and mental wellbeing of vulnerable populations in the face of a changing climate.