Rooftop Farming as Climate Adaptation and Its Legal Framework for Sustainable Urban Living in Bangladesh

Abstract

The most significant cities in Bangladesh are heating very fast. It is not only because of climate change, but also because of a phenomenon called the “Urban Heat Island” effect. It refers to where concrete buildings and roads trap heat, which creates massive problems. It makes people sick and drives up electricity bills from using more AC and other cooling electronics. Moreover, it creates hardship for people to work, especially the poor, who cannot afford cooling. While everyone is discussing big-picture climate solutions, there is a simple and effective solution called rooftop farming (RTF). This method involves transforming flat rooftops into small gardens with soil and plants, which is a great way to fight the heat. Significant research indicates that plants and soil absorb heat, which reduces the local temperature by a few degrees and may even help mitigate the effects of air pollution. On top of that, these RTFs are contributing to our food security by providing fresh vegetables for families. Unfortunately, this significant initiative is not prioritized that much. However, several international laws increasingly encourage RTF as part of sustainable development and climate adaptation. Although the National Agriculture Policy has recognized it, significant policy gaps and legal lacunae remain. So, the government is yet to take the initiative to raise awareness among people, which leaves them blind folded. By following the qualitative method, this research emphasizes that there is a need for government initiatives through legislation and policy to encourage RTF and make urban areas more livable and sustainable.