The Green Dilemma: Conservation Challenges in the Western Ghats

Abstract

The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most biologically diverse regions, face an array of conservation challenges stemming from anthropogenic activities and climate change. This chapter delves into the multifaceted nature of these challenges, encompassing habitat loss, livestock grazing, human-animal conflict, extraction of forest products, mining, deforestation, hunting, climate change impacts, and the complexities of effective management. Drawing from a synthesis of current research, reports, and on-the-ground observations, this chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of the conservation challenges confronting the Western Ghats. It explores the intricate interplay between human activities and ecological dynamics, shedding light on the urgent need for collaborative and adaptive conservation strategies to safeguard the ecological integrity and biodiversity of this globally significant landscape. Through a detailed examination of each challenge, this chapter aims to inform policymakers, conservation practitioners, and stakeholders about the critical issues at hand, ultimately advocating for proactive measures to address these challenges and ensure the long-term resilience of the Western Ghats' ecosystems