Integration of flood-induced benefits in flood risk optimization analysis in South-Central Bangladesh

Abstract

Flood is a recurrent natural hazard impacting both communities and ecosystems, especially in flood-prone countries like Bangladesh. Conventional flood risk reduction approaches often emphasize exclusion from floodplains and overlook the socio-ecological benefits associated with seasonal inundation. This study conducts a risk-benefit analysis in the coastal regions of Bangladesh, where livelihoods are intricately tied to the hydrological regime. By coupling two-dimensional hydrodynamic model simulations with benefit and damage functions, we estimate agricultural losses and fisheries benefits under floods of varying return periods. A synchronized assessment of benefits and damages provides critical insights for developing alternative strategies for flood risk optimization. Integrating flood-induced benefits into flood analysis supports the formulation of floodplain management policies and structural interventions that balance risk with socio-ecological value. Using public consultation meetings, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews, local perceptions were captured, revealing how communities utilize and adapt to seasonal flooding. While moderate flood depths (0.3–0.9 m) support aquatic ecosystems, they also damage paddy crops, highlighting trade-offs in planning. Floods with return periods below five years tend to yield higher net benefits. This pattern persists under 2041 land use projections, reinforcing the need to embed ecosystem benefits in future flood control strategies.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Discover Sustainability, 2026 · DOI ↗