This chapter investigates the ecological ramifications of the prolonged presence of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, with a particular focus on Cox’s Bazar and its adjacent environmentally sensitive areas. Since the mass influx of Rohingya in 2017, the rapid expansion of refugee camps in Ukhiya and Teknaf has placed extraordinary pressure on forests, land, water resources, and wildlife habitats. Drawing on national and international literature, this chapter contextualises Bangladesh’s experience within a broader global context, demonstrating that large-scale refugee settlements frequently generate environmental stress in host countries. The analysis identified four primary ecological impacts: deforestation and hill cutting, land degradation and soil erosion, loss of wildlife habitats and corridors, and declining groundwater levels, resulting in water scarcity. Particular attention is paid to protected areas such as Himchari National Park, Inani National Park, and Teknaf Wildlife Sanctuary, where refugee settlements intersect with biodiversity conservation efforts. The chapter further evaluates the long-term environmental implications of the Rohingya presence and assesses these impacts in light of the Sustainable Development Goals, especially those related to climate action, biodiversity, water security, and governance. By linking refugee protection with environmental sustainability, this chapter underscores the urgent need for integrated and ecologically informed refugee management strategies in Bangladesh and other host states facing protracted displacement crises.

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The Ecological Impact of the Current Rohingya Presence in Bangladesh

  • Nour Mohammad

摘要

This chapter investigates the ecological ramifications of the prolonged presence of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, with a particular focus on Cox’s Bazar and its adjacent environmentally sensitive areas. Since the mass influx of Rohingya in 2017, the rapid expansion of refugee camps in Ukhiya and Teknaf has placed extraordinary pressure on forests, land, water resources, and wildlife habitats. Drawing on national and international literature, this chapter contextualises Bangladesh’s experience within a broader global context, demonstrating that large-scale refugee settlements frequently generate environmental stress in host countries. The analysis identified four primary ecological impacts: deforestation and hill cutting, land degradation and soil erosion, loss of wildlife habitats and corridors, and declining groundwater levels, resulting in water scarcity. Particular attention is paid to protected areas such as Himchari National Park, Inani National Park, and Teknaf Wildlife Sanctuary, where refugee settlements intersect with biodiversity conservation efforts. The chapter further evaluates the long-term environmental implications of the Rohingya presence and assesses these impacts in light of the Sustainable Development Goals, especially those related to climate action, biodiversity, water security, and governance. By linking refugee protection with environmental sustainability, this chapter underscores the urgent need for integrated and ecologically informed refugee management strategies in Bangladesh and other host states facing protracted displacement crises.