Impact of climate change on bitter honey in Chattogram mangrove forest area: an exploratory study

Abstract

Bitter honey, a unique product of Bangladesh, is under serious threat of extinction, primarily due to climate change. This study explores the impact of climate change on the production, quality, and quantity of bitter honey using qualitative methods. A total of 10 in-depth interviews with honey collectors and sellers in this study identified several factors that directly connected to climate change issues. Bitter honey, produced in August from the pollen of Gewa, Neem, Bitter Gourd, Minjori, Boroi, and Koroi trees, has seen a sharp decline in production. Excessive rainfall, flash floods, reduced floral growth and resources, an increased rate of honeybee mortality, premature hive cutting, and deforestation are the key contributors to this decline. Climate-related factors, especially excessive rainfall, disrupt honey collection and damage hives, while high heat kills bees and larvae. In previous years, collectors could harvest up to 14 kg per hive; now, yields have fallen to 2-3 kg, with quality also deteriorating due to climate impacts. Which is a serious threat to the existence of bitter honey. Deforestation to establish an industrial zone in Mirsharai and Sitakundo is further threatening honey production by reducing floral resources and bee habitats. Nearly half of the mangrove forest has already been destroyed, and the rest of the mangroves is still at risk. The study emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive policy to protect both bitter honey production and the ecosystem in Chattogram mangrove. Awareness among the public, government, and stakeholders is crucial to prevent the climate change issues in this region, which not only affect honey production but also endanger the whole ecosystem Received: 17 August 2025 Accepted: 20 November 2025 Published: 28 December 2025