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Consequences of Urban Biodiversity Loss: Assessing Human Impact and Developing Awareness Strategies for Sustainable Living in Dhaka

Students & Supervisors

Student Authors
Md. Yeakin Arafat
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering, FST
Supervisors
Md. Mortuza Ahmmed
Associate Professor, Faculty, FST

Abstract

Objectives: Human activities such as unplanned construction, deforestation and pollution have led to a serious decline in green spaces and natural habitats in Dhaka. This loss of biodiversity disrupts ecosystems, reduces air and water quality, and increases urban heat. It also affects pollinators, native species, and leads to a rise in health problems like respiratory diseases. This study aims to explore how human actions in Dhaka are contributing to the loss of urban biodiversity as well as the consequences of this loss. Besides, this research investigates the conservation strategies that aim to support a more sustainable way of living in Dhaka. Methodology: This research is based on a secondary dataset for the year 2000 - 2023 that compiles annual environmental and urban metrics collected from government publications, academic journals, and reports from international organizations. The dataset includes variables such as population growth, species diversity, air and water quality, and health-related impacts. Descriptive statistics were applied to summarize the trends, while linear trend analysis was used to examine the progression of biodiversity loss and related urban changes over time. Awareness efforts and conservation funding were also analyzed to assess their influence on sustainability efforts. Result: From 2000 to 2023, Dhaka experienced severe biodiversity and environmental decline due to urban expansion. Green space dropped from 12.5% to 2.8%, native tree species declined from 42 to 15, and bird species from 185 to 93. Pollinator abundance fall significantly, with the index decreasing to 23.8. These losses were accompanied by worsening air quality (AQI up to 352), poor water quality (index below 30), and rising respiratory disease rates, from 385 to 790 per 100,000. After 2020, conservation funding, awareness efforts and community green projects showed remarkable growth, indicating hope for ecological recovery.

Keywords

Urban biodiversity Rapid urbanization Unplanned construction Habitat destruction (for birds insects and native species) Air Quality Index (AQI) Public health Awareness strategies for sustainable living.

Publication Details

  • Type of Publication: Conference 
  • Conference Name: 4th National Research Project Contest – 2025
  • Date of Conference: 21/06/2025 - 21/06/2025
  • Venue: Bangladesh University of Professionals, Dhaka, Dhaka Division, Bangladesh
  • Organizer: Bangladesh University Project and Research Society (BUPRS)
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