In the heart of India, where the vast Chilika Lake meets the Bay of Bengal, a silent crisis is unfolding. This isn’t a tale of tsunamis or cyclones, but a slow, insidious threat that’s choking the lifeblood of the region’s fisherfolk: water pollution. A recent study, led by Elena Mengo of the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) in the UK, has shed light on this often-overlooked issue, published in the journal ‘Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems’, which translates to ‘Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems’.
The research, focusing on Chilika Lake, reveals a stark reality. Approximately 16 million fisherfolk in India depend on fisheries for their income, food, and nutritional security. However, the aquatic ecosystems they rely on are heavily polluted, posing significant challenges to their livelihoods. “Fisheries serve as the primary source of livelihood,” Mengo explains, “but water pollution adversely affects the quantity and quality of fish, ultimately impacting household income.”
The study, employing a mixed-method approach, surveyed 161 fishers and conducted focus group discussions in local communities. The findings paint a grim picture. Tourism and agriculture, including aquaculture, are considered major contributors to aquatic pollution. While fishing-related litter does contribute to pollution in coastal areas, fishers infrequently encounter derelict gear compared to plastic bags and bottles. This highlights the need for targeted education and outreach initiatives in coastal areas to address waste mismanagement.
The research also underscores the widespread issues of solid waste disposal and management, largely due to inadequate waste collection and disposal facilities. This results in the prevalence of informal waste management systems, exacerbating the pollution problem. As one fisherfolk participant noted, “We see more plastic in the water each year. It’s affecting our catch and our health.”
The implications of this research extend beyond the immediate impacts on fisherfolk. The energy sector, which often relies on coastal infrastructure and resources, is not immune to these environmental challenges. Pollution can disrupt marine ecosystems, affecting the availability of resources and the stability of coastal infrastructure. As the energy sector continues to expand, particularly in renewable energy sources like offshore wind and wave energy, understanding and mitigating these environmental impacts will be crucial.
Mengo’s research highlights the need for sustainable development and biodiversity conservation. Developing alternative livelihoods can reduce dependency on fisheries and contribute to these goals. The study also emphasizes the importance of active participation among local communities in initiatives such as beach clean-ups, as well as encouraging practices of recycling and reusing materials.
As we look to the future, this research could shape developments in coastal pollution management, sustainable fisheries, and waste management. By involving local communities in decision-making processes and addressing their knowledge and perspectives, we can create more effective and equitable solutions. The energy sector, with its growing interest in coastal resources, has a significant role to play in this endeavor. It’s time to listen to the voices of those on the frontlines of this environmental crisis and work together towards a more sustainable future.