24. Water–Energy Nexus at the Heart of Sustainable Development in Bangladesh

The nexus between water and energy is crucial for Bangladesh economy. The demand for water consumption in the irrigation is one of the greatest and fastest growing, as water holds the key to agricultural development. The success of irrigation depends on the uninterrupted supply of electricity. Through irrigation, arable land is expanded, resulting in increased nutrition. Thus, access to energy will underpin social–economic development in Bangladesh, mainly through benefits of education, improving livelihoods, in procuring, treating and supplying safe drinking water supplies, and reducing dependence on firewood (particularly for cooking). The local economic growth can be catalysed by water and energy together. For example, when the local families enjoy greater disposable income, favourable feedback of economic strengthening and growth incurs. The enhanced productivity for improved healthcare and well-being will sum up those economic benefits, stabilising the communities, incorporating that into water and sanitation.