04 Haz 2025 Çarşamba
Protecting East Kolkata Wetland: A review of urbanization's impact on biodiversity and conservation
Abstract : The East Kolkata Wetland (EKW), a vital Ramsar site, plays a crucial role in maintaining Kolkata's ecological balance. Spanning 12,741 hectares, this natural ecosystem treats 250 million gallons of wastewater daily, supporting 74% of the local workforce through innovative sewage-fed fish ponds and agricultural activities. However, urbanization and pollution pose significant threats to EKW's biodiversity and ecological balance. Urbanization's impact on EKW's insect diversity is particularly alarming, with habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation, as well as climate change, pollution, and invasive species impacts on species populations. Despite hosting 1925 species (1288 fauna, 637 flora), EKW lacks comprehensive baseline data, hindering effective conservation efforts. This knowledge gap underscores the urgent need for systematic research and documentation of the wetland's floral and faunal communities. This review addresses this gap, exploring ongoing conservation initiatives, research gaps, and future directions for sustainable urban planning, ecosystem management, and species conservation. Our study aims to inform effective conservation strategies, safeguarding EKW's unique flora and fauna, and ensuring Kolkata's long-term social, environmental, and economic well-being. Our review highlights the complex relationships between urbanization, ecosystem degradation, and species diversity loss. These dynamics, we can develop targeted conservation approaches to protect EKW's ecological services, supporting the well-being of both the environment and local communities.