The Bangladesh agriculture sector makes 11% contribution to the national GDP, and is also vital for the huge population’s food security. However, worsening climate change impact and a growing pro-urban population have severely threatened the future potentials of the sector.

Relevant government agencies, non-profits and private sector stakeholders must bolster their works to develop upgraded crop varieties and introduce modern farming methods. The young generation must also get involved actively to raise awareness among the farming community about the use and benefits of modern farming procedures. To this end, the young people themselves need proper knowledge and training.

Climate change poses huge risks for the entire world but the threats are particularly acute for Bangladesh as by 2050, 30% of the country’s farmlands are projected to be lost to rising sea levels. Then there is growing demand for modern residential facilities, transport routes, and industries to cater for the over 20 crore people.

To ensure food and nutrition security, sustainable agricultural practices and enhanced crop productivity are essential. Maintaining soil health and quality is crucial for this.

Rising soil temperatures and decreasing moisture levels reduce the activity of soil microbes, disrupt natural nutrient cycles, and diminish crop nutrition. Rapid degradation of organic matter weakens soil structure and water retention capacity. Climate change exacerbates these issues through erratic rainfall, prolonged waterlogging, and increased soil erosion risks caused by cyclones and altered rainfall patterns. Additionally, increased soil acidity and loss of vital nutrients like calcium, potassium, and magnesium due to heavy rainfall negatively impact crops and raise farming costs.

Adapting to climate challenges requires climate-resilient technologies, seeds, fertilisers, irrigation, and agricultural information. Reducing reliance on fossil fuels is critical to mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Developing resilient crop varieties, promoting crop diversity (e.g., rice, wheat, vegetables, and pulses), and making modern farming tools accessible through subsidies can help achieve sustainable agriculture.

Youth engagement is vital in tackling climate challenges in agriculture. Youth-led awareness campaigns, workshops, and academic collaborations can promote sustainable farming practices. Organic fertilisers and soil amendments can improve soil fertility and health. Research on heat-, drought-, and salinity-resistant crop varieties is essential, along with policies supporting sustainable agriculture.

Protecting soil composition is key to producing safe, nutritious food. Institutions like the Soil Resource Development Institute must work extensively to improve soil quality, reclaim saline and degraded lands, and implement advanced cultivation methods. Resilient crop varieties and innovative technologies will be crucial for addressing these challenges.

The writer is a fourth-year student of Department of Soil, Water and Environment at University of Dhaka