Equal exposure, unequal effects of climate change: Gendered impacts on food consumption and nutrition in rural Bangladesh

Abstract

In low- and middle-income countries, disparities in nutrition between men and women represent a significant source of gender inequality, a challenge that is exacerbated by climate shocks. This study examines the impact of droughts on food consumption and nutrition across age and gender cohorts in rural Bangladesh. We utilize georeferenced climate data and panel data from surveys in rural Bangladesh. Findings reveal that droughts lead to an 8.4 % reduction in food expenditure and a decrease in calories, protein, and fat intake by 5.7 %, 5.5 %, and 8.2 %, respectively. The effects are disproportionate across age groups in the household. Women experience a greater decline in food consumption and nutritional intake compared to men, with elderly women being the most severely affected group. Additionally, droughts lead to a less balanced diet, marked by decreased consumption of nutrient-rich animal-source and plant-based foods and an increased reliance on cereals. While safety nets help mitigate the adverse effects of droughts, they do not fully restore consumption to pre-drought levels. Findings from this study highlight the need for targeted interventions that address the specific vulnerabilities of different demographic groups and enhance the effectiveness of safety nets.