Urban ecosystems and ecosystem services in megacity Dhaka: mapping and inventory analysis

Urban ecosystems and ecosystem services have received little research attention in South Asian countries where rapid urban development is currently problematic. We developed a typology of urban ecosystems and an inventory of current ecosystem services for Dhaka - the capital of Bangladesh. Our observations, surveys, analyses, and evaluation revealed a diversity of urban ecosystems including khal (canal), pond, wetland, cultivated land, park/rooftop garden, playground/field, open space/vacant plot, roadside trees, and graveyards. Important provisioning services included fruits, vegetables, fish, fodder, timber, fuelwood, and medicinal/ornamental plants. Regulating services included carbon sequestration and particulate matter removal by park and roadside trees, drainage service by khals and wetlands, and noise abatement by parks. Opportunities for recreation, fishing and sports, walk/exercise, inspirations for art and culture and religious values presented cultural services. Habitat services such as refugia for resident and migratory birds featured in parks, lakes, wetlands and trees on roadsides, playgrounds/fields, and graveyards. Evaluation of the states and values of urban ecosystems and ecosystem services are prerequisites to improving the wellbeing of urban communities particularly in Dhaka but more generally for other major cities in South Asia. Our findings will assist policy makers in sustainable urban ecosystem governance with possible implications for region-wide cooperation.