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
