POLLUTION AND BIODIVERSITY IN THE CARRIBEAN PUBLISHED
F. GUYVENCHY, R. PAȘCALĂU, L. ȘMULEAC, P. MERGHEȘ, A.ȘMULEAC, L.VORNICU, R. JIGĂU, Ș.ZOICAN, C. ZOICAN UNIVERSITY OF LIFE SCIENCES ”KING MIHAI I” FROM TIMISOARA raul.pascalau@usvt.roThe Caribbean region, renowned for its pristine beaches, azure waters, and lush landscapes, faces the growing challenge of pollution and its impact on biodiversity. This abstract delves into the intricate dynamics of pollution and its consequences on the unique ecosystems of the Caribbean. It highlights the pressing need for environmental conservation and sustainable practices in this paradisiacal but fragile part of the world. The Caribbean, a global treasure of natural beauty, grapples with the threats posed by pollution to its rich biodiversity. This abstract unravels the complex interplay between pollution and the diverse ecosystems of the Caribbean: Pollution Sources: The Caribbean region contends with pollution from multiple sources, including industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, marine litter, and tourism-related activities. The pervasive nature of these pollutants raises concerns about their cumulative effect on the environment. Marine Ecosystems: The Caribbean Sea is home to some of the world's most diverse and delicate marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and seagrass beds. Pollution, particularly from nutrient runoff and plastic waste, poses a substantial threat to the health and resilience of these ecosystems. Terrestrial Biodiversity: The islands of the Caribbean boast a unique range of flora and fauna. Pollution affects terrestrial ecosystems through deforestation, habitat destruction, and contamination of soil and freshwater bodies, which disrupts the balance of these fragile habitats. Coral Bleaching: Pollution-induced climate change exacerbates coral bleaching events, endangering the vibrant coral reefs that are vital to the region's biodiversity and economy. The loss of coral reefs impacts marine life, fishing, and tourism. Conservation Efforts: Conservation initiatives in the Caribbean are critical for mitigating the impact of pollution on biodiversity. These efforts encompass sustainable tourism practices, marine protected areas, waste management, and public awareness campaigns. Economic Implications: The degradation of biodiversity due to pollution affects the region's economic sustainability. The Caribbean heavily relies on tourism, and the decline in the natural beauty of the region jeopardizes its economic prosperity. Global Responsibility: The interconnectedness of the world's oceans underscores the global responsibility to address pollution in the Caribbean. International collaboration is essential for the region's environmental conservation. In summary, this abstract underscores the pressing need to address pollution and its ramifications on biodiversity in the Caribbean. The paradise of the Caribbean is at a crossroads, where environmental stewardship and sustainable practices are imperative to safeguard its unique ecosystems and ensure the well-being of its communities and the planet.
Agriculture, Caribbean, flora, fauna, runoff, seagrass, tourism, habitats, sustainability, pollution, planet.
environmental engineering
Presentation: poster
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