UDA Digest > 2024
Aquaculture Blue Economy ESG and Climate Risk Uncategorized

The Ecological Importance of Spatial Mapping in Sustainable Aquaculture Management

Key Highlights Mangroves sequester carbon efficiently and are essential for climate change mitigation. The shift from agriculture to aquaculture causes land and water degradation and disrupts traditional livelihoods. Sustainable aquaculture requires addressing significant environmental concerns through practices like IAA and IMTA. Accurate spatial mapping and tracking of aquaculture ponds aid in marine spatial planning, assess environmental impacts, and support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by informing effective management and policy decisions. Accurate spatial mapping and tracking of aquaculture ponds aid in marine spatial planning, assess environmental impacts, and support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by informing effective management and policy decisions. “Sustainable aquaculture is about more than just producing seafood; it’s about creating a system that works in harmony with our environment.” – Dr. Claude Boyd Ecological Importance of Mangroves Mangroves are tropical forests that grow in the intertidal zone of tropical and subtropical shores. They are among the most carbon-rich forests in the tropics and can sequester carbon much faster than other forests. This process can continue for millions of years, making mangroves critical in the fight against climate change. The amount of carbon stored within sediments of individual mangrove ecosystems varies widely, with a global median value of 2.2%. “However, when blue carbon ecosystems like mangroves are degraded or lost, they release stored carbon into the atmosphere, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Protecting and restoring these coastal habitats is a vital strategy for reducing climate change as they are crucial in enhancing its resilience.” Coastal aquaculture, particularly shrimp farming, has been heavily criticized for its environmental impacts, including the devastation of mangrove forests. Despite this, mangroves are ecologically and economically invaluable, offering various ecosystem services and biodiversity conservation. This deforestation also exacerbates various climatic variables such as coastal flooding, cyclones, droughts, rainfall changes, salinity, sea-level rise, and sea surface temperature increases, dramatically affecting coastal aquaculture. The mean ecosystem carbon stocks in shrimp ponds are significantly lower than in relatively intact mangroves. For example, shrimp ponds hold about 499 ± 56 Mg C ha−1 compared to 1023 ± 87 Mg C ha−1 in intact mangroves. This translates to a potential annual emission factor over 16 years following mangrove conversion of 120 Mg CO2e ha−1 yr−1. Including carbon losses from land use changes in a life cycle analysis revealed an estimated 2250 kg CO2-e emitted for every kilogram of shrimp produced in mangrove-converted ponds. Also, this conversion of mangroves to aquaculture ponds has increased nutrient export from land, negatively impacting adjacent seagrass meadows and coral reefs. This highlights the persistent ecological and biogeochemical changes associated with mangrove conversion in tropical estuaries, affecting the ecosystem services provided by undisturbed mangrove forests. Aquaculture’s impact on Land use and its Socio-economic Effects Agriculture remains the dominant land use in many areas and is often utilized for aquaculture and buildings. A significant concern is the extensive clearing and conversion of natural habitats for shrimp farming and agriculture, and, more recently, the shift from agriculture to aquaculture has sparked the conflict, leading to land and water degradation. This trend is driven by high global demand for aquaculture products and technological advancements, resulting in rapid and often unplanned coastal development. “This growth of shrimp farming has led to a decline in land area devoted to rice farming, affecting traditional livelihoods and employment opportunities. ” Common pool resources have been converted to private use, reducing sharecropping opportunities and access to grazing land. The labour requirements for shrimp farms are lower than paddy production, leading to “absolute desensitization”, where many middle- and low-income residents have been displaced to pursue industrial labour in urban areas or become low-wage workers in aquaculture. However, many farmers in Bangladesh report higher and more reliable rice yields after converting their fields to ghers (ponds), improving food security for many. Economic and Nutritional Impacts of Fish and Shrimp Consumption Fish and shrimp are generally more expensive than staple grains, pulses, or vegetables, leading to the contention that economic access and consumption improve with increasing consumer wealth and income. Urbanization further boosts fish consumption by offering better market access than rural areas. Over the past five decades, per capita fish supplies have increased by more than 60%, reaching 18.9 kg per person per year in 2010. However, at the local and household levels, case studies in Bangladesh indicate that farmed fish, often grown larger and consumed filleted, may offer lower nutritional contributions than wild small indigenous fish, typically consumed whole. There is no clear evidence that increased farmed fish supplies directly impact the micronutrient status of producing households and consumers. Challenges in Management for Shrimp Cultivation In the Indian Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve (SBR), extensive and illegal land conversion from agriculture to aquaculture over the past two decades has significant implications for SDGs related to food, poverty, employment, and ecosystems. “While aquaculture offers higher economic returns than agriculture, these benefits are unequally distributed, labour demand is lower (often fulfilled by non-local workers), and the expansion of brackish water aquaculture can lead to land salinization through pond seepage and intentional saline water management.” Studies show that in villages like Phong Thanh, Ninh Thanh Loi, and Vinh Loc in Vietnam, farmers, driven by higher shrimp revenues than rice, employ various techniques to maintain saline water in their fields for extended shrimp cultivation. This practice renders subsequent rice crops unviable, even in the rainy season, necessitating the harmonization of land management and water management at different levels, including farm and canal systems. Environmental Challenges and Sustainable Practices Despite the high market demand for fish and shrimp and their importance for food security, the growth of aquaculture presents significant environmental challenges. Various environmental and ecological concerns, including land, water, feed, and energy use limit sustainable aquaculture. The greening of aquaculture through Integrated Aquaculture-Agriculture (IAA) and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) could play a significant role in reversing the trend of blue carbon emissions and enhancing coastal ecosystems. “Ponds within IAA systems sequester more carbon per unit area than conventional fish ponds, and moving shrimp culture offshore could reduce mangrove loss and increase

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Marine Spatial Planinng (2) ESG and Climate Risk Experts' Articles Geopolitics and IR Maritime Security Skilling India

People, Economy & Nature – Coastal Management in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) based on theUnderwater Domain Awareness (UDA) Framework

Key Highlights The IOR faces a unique situation, where there are several inherent strengths, however the weaknesses far outweigh the strengths to ensure poor governance. The complete surrender to Western know-how and technology has caused extensive manipulation by these entities to deprive us of our legitimate growth potential on natural resources.   The UDA framework has been translated into a pilot project namely “100 Coastal Warriors”, that will demonstrate the relevance of this concept with significant scientific temper but rooted in Indigenous knowledge and practices. The SAGAR vision envisages a leadership role for India in the IOR, and the UDA framework-driven digital transformation will be the most effective and efficient diplomatic tool for India in the region and beyond.  The Indian Ocean Region (IOR), has become the global center of gravity, geopolitically and geo-strategically. Every global power wants to maintain its strategic presence in the region to ensure its dominance in the global power play. The extra-regional powers have a peculiar way of ensuring their dominance in any region. They disrupt the local governance mechanism and meddle in domestic politics to ensure complete surrender by all arms of the governance mechanism. This cripples the capacity and capability of the governance mechanism to deliver any service for the growth and prosperity of the nation.  The IOR faces a unique situation, where there are several inherent strengths, however the weaknesses far outweigh the strengths to ensure poor governance. Let us look at the strengths first: Demographic advantage of a young aspirational population. Rich biodiversity with significant potential for commercial exploitation. Massive mineral reserves for substantial blue economic growth. Long coastline for seamless connectivity across the region. Rich maritime heritage with huge traditional knowledge. Reasonable economic strength to drive new initiatives. Robust academic and research infrastructure to drive regional initiatives. Now let’s look at the weaknesses in the same order to appreciate the causes of poor governance mechanisms: The lack of appropriate skilling and capacity-building mechanisms has ensured that this young aspirational population is not employable. There is a massive disconnect between the skills and the job description. The over-dependence on Western technology and know-how has completely marginalized the traditional practices, resulting in a massive income gap between the artisanal fishing communities and the mechanized, corporate-driven fisheries and aquaculture. The reality is that 90% of the population is involved in traditional practices and earns only 10% of revenue, whereas 10% of people involved in corporatized industrial fisheries and aquaculture earn 90% of revenue. The massive tilt towards corporate has ensured the erosion of traditional practices and massive degradation in the local ecosystem. This leads to an imbalance in socioeconomic and socio-political status causing inequality & volatility in society.   The complete surrender to Western know-how and technology has caused extensive manipulation by these entities to deprive us of our legitimate growth potential on natural resources. These extra-regional powers completely disregard our sustainability & climate change concerns. It may be noted that the tropical waters are unique and these western entities have developed their knowhow and technologies for the temperate and polar waters. The sonars used for acoustic survey suffer 60% degradation when deployed in the tropical region, compared to the temperate & polar waters. It may further be noted that these entities do not have the demographic strengths to deploy human resources to customize their technology and know-how for our condition. They only supply canned solutions that do not meet our specifications. In effect, we pay a heavy price for sub-standard solutions. The long coastline offers massive potential for blue economic growth and connectivity, however, we are only facing the vulnerability of natural disasters and sustainability concerns. The strategic security vulnerability only ensures massive outgo for military hardware at the cost of investment in Science & Technology (S&T). The Western powers are building false narratives and massive security boogey to pump their military hardware developed during the Cold War Era as a means for their Return on Investment (RoI). The fragmentation among the stakeholders, namely strategic security, blue economy, sustainability & climate change risk management, and S&T is ensuring sub-optimal resource deployment for building good governance mechanisms. The Indian sub-continent boasts of 10,000 years of civilizational legacy. The traditional knowledge and practices have ensured growth and prosperity at an unimaginable scale. However, the subjugation by the European powers completely eroded our maritime consciousness and made us sea blind. The Western influence started a trend that attempted to completely replace the traditional practices by their so-called modern tools. Scientific temper has to blend with indigenous knowledge and practices. The native communities found themselves completely at sea in this new invasion of ideas and governance mechanisms. Our decision-makers started taking too much pride in their Western education, completely undermining the local appreciation of know-how, culture, and scientific temper.  India has developed reasonable economic muscles being the fourth largest economy and offering a huge market to the west. This is a significant bargaining chip for us to negotiate our interests and focus on our own capacity & capability building. Only a change in mindset is required and we are there. We have to plan our requirements and seek specific assistance from the West, rather than completely surrender. This aspect will be discussed later in the paper to illustrate further. The Indian talent is appreciated all over the world and our experts have contributed massively to the global growth in varied fields. However, we have failed to create the ecosystem to firstly retain these talents and also to make them contribute to our growth and prosperity. The sustained effort with clear goals for real-world problem-solving requires continuity and a holistic approach. The pooling of resources and synergizing of efforts is the key to ensuring optimal resource deployment. Our own academic and research infrastructure is serving to produce export quality talent for the Western requirement. The absence of real-world data for our Indian sub-continent has ensured that our research is either lab-based or at best we use Western data to field validate our research. There is no mechanism

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Sac Uncategorized

Navigating the Tyranny of Small Decisions: A Comprehensive Examination of Policy Challenge

Key Highlights The concept rooted in prioritizing individual interests over the common good, highlighted by historical philosophers like Aristotle and Thucydides, was later coined by Alfred E. Kahn with the example of the railway system’s shutdown in Ithaca. William Odham extended the concept to environmental issues, emphasizing cumulative impact. Garrett Hardin’s “Tragedy of Commons” warns of common resource exploitation due to individual gains. Plastic pollution, urban flooding, and groundwater mismanagement are challenges resulting from the tyranny of small decisions.  Origin of the Tyranny of Small Decisions Historical philosophers and economists, such as Thomas Mann and Eugen von Böhm-Bawerk, recognized the consequences of short-sighted decisions made without considering long-term implications. The concept of the “tyranny of small decisions” has deep historical roots, with ancient philosophers like Thucydides and Aristotle highlighting the human tendency to prioritize individual interests over the common good. The concept of the tyranny of small decisions, as articulated by Aristotle and later refined by economist Alfred E. Kahn, delves into the intricate dynamics of shared resources and the impact of individual choices on the common good. Aristotle observed that as more individuals partake in the utilization of a communal resource, the care for it diminishes, as personal interests often take precedence unless directly affected. Alfred E. Kahn, in 1966, introduced the term “Tyranny of small decisions,” emphasizing how seemingly rational choices can collectively lead to irreversible destruction. A poignant illustration of this phenomenon unfolded in Ithaca, New York, during the 1950s with the decline of the railway system. Despite the reliability of the railway, commuters made individual choices in favor of alternative transportation modes, resulting in the railway’s closure due to diminishing usage and revenue. While each decision seemed rational in isolation, the cumulative effect contradicted the community’s long-term interests, especially during adverse weather conditions. This example transcends economic realms, resonating in areas like environmental degradation, politics, and health outcomes. Environmental Degradation and the Tyranny of Small Decisions The environmentalist William Odham expanded the concept to environmental problems in 1982, emphasizing how the cumulative impact of small decisions contributes to environmental turmoil. Natural resources, essential to all, including food, coal, and water, often fall prey to exploitation and degradation due to the tyranny of small decisions. Garrett Hardin’s 1968 paper introduced the analogy of the commons, portraying the escalating pressures on finite resources as human populations burgeon globally. The tragedy of the commons unfolds in shared resources, akin to sheep grazing land, where private management preserves value and herd health, while communal management leads to overpopulation and resource exploitation. This, according to Hardin, is an inevitable consequence of individual gains, resulting in detrimental outcomes for all. The “Tragedy of Commons” asserts that individuals, pursuing self-interest, exploit shared resources, surpassing demand over supply, and culminating in overconsumption and resource depletion. Protecting the commons has become an intricate challenge at local, national, and international levels. As individuals navigate their self-interest, a looming path to ruin unfolds. The interplay of human activities and climate-related factors intensifies catastrophic events with far-reaching consequences. Cultural lake eutrophication, the decline of green turtle populations, and the threat to endangered species like polar bears and humpback whales further illustrate the hidden dangers of seemingly insignificant decisions. The continuous addition of domestic sewage, industrial outlets, and urban development leads to irreversible damage to productive lands, groundwater resources, and tropical forests. Historical examples, like the case of Chandola Lake in Gujarat, showcase how neglect and short-sighted decisions result in the loss of vital water bodies. The encroachment, pollution, and mismanagement of lakes in Ahmedabad exemplify the failure to incorporate natural drainage patterns and topography into urban planning, causing environmental havoc. Climate change serves as a prominent example of the tyranny of small decisions, where incremental choices have led to profound and interconnected consequences, particularly in the context of the oceans. Despite being the largest habitat on Earth and a crucial system linked to human survival, the impact of increasing carbon dioxide emissions on the oceans has been overshadowed in the climate change discourse. The oceans, responsible for half of the planet’s oxygen production, climate regulation, and support for diverse ecosystems, have absorbed more than 93% of the heat added to the planet since the 1950s. However, this absorption comes at a cost manifested in rising ocean temperatures and increased acidification, evident in the melting Arctic Sea ice and coral bleaching. Immediate action is imperative, utilizing a comprehensive approach encompassing mitigation, protection, restoration, and adaptation. The consequences of climate change extend beyond oceanic impacts, affecting precipitation patterns and leading to increased flooding risks, especially in Europe. Fluvial flooding from extended periods of increased rainfall and pluvial floods caused by intense cloudbursts pose threats, resulting in fatalities, affecting millions, and incurring substantial economic losses. Sea-level rise, another consequence of climate change, amplifies the risk of coastal flooding and erosion, impacting communities, infrastructure, businesses, and ecosystems. The changing climate, characterized by altered rainfall patterns, increased evaporation, glacier melting, and rising sea levels, disrupts the availability of freshwater. More frequent and severe droughts, along with rising water temperatures, are anticipated to decrease water quality, fostering the growth of toxic algae and bacteria. This exacerbates the existing problem of water scarcity driven by human activities. A surge in cloudburst events is poised to further impact freshwater quality and quantity, as stormwater introduces untreated sewage into surface water. Handling the tyranny of small decisions in the context of oceans and freshwaters presents numerous challenges, each with its unique set of complexities. Examining specific issues such as plastic pollution, urban flooding, and groundwater mismanagement highlights the difficulties faced in addressing these environmental concerns as a result of small decisions at local, national, and international levels. Plastic Pollution in Oceans: Approximately 80% of marine litter consists of plastic, with over 6.5 million tons of plastic making its way into the ocean each year. Daily, a staggering 15,343 tons of waste is dumped into the South Asian seas, originating from 60 major cities in India. The pervasive usage of plastics in various aspects of our daily

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Mhhvhc Uncategorized

Advancing Sediment Management: Insights from Comprehensive Transport Studies

Key Highlights The Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) Framework is increasingly necessary for effective sedimentation management. Controlling erosion is one of the best methods to reduce large amounts of sediment. Sediment management in rivers should be the way forward for sustainable management of sediments. Sediment management in rivers should be the way forward for sustainable management of sediments. “There is an urgent need for sustainable management of sediments in reservoirs and rivers in the country”, a Senior Central Water Commission official said. Sediment management is a multilevel challenge that is necessary for collaboration among diverse stakeholders to ensure policy formation effectively. Annual monsoon of a year causes excessive siltation due to the high speed of the water. Thus, sediment management is very important to reduce the damage caused to the national economy. In a 2022 article published in National Framework for Sediment Management, former Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat noted, “In present times, due to rapid urbanization and development, many new issues are coming up, leading to a change in the river dynamics. Reservoirs are also losing their storage capacity because of sedimentation. Hence, comprehensive sediment management has now become the need of the hour for the sustainable development of the country’s water resources.” “Dams in India are more than 25 years old and due to the aging of dams, storage capacity is reduced because of sedimentation, and scarcity of water will become more common. Thus, there is an urgent need to update guidelines and policies for elevating awareness of reservoir sedimentation.” Effect of Erosion on Sediment Management Erosion and aggradations are the most important geological processes that are responsible for bringing down large amounts of sediment from higher elevations to plains. Sediment carrying capacity is directly proportional to the kinetic energy of water, as the river flows from a higher altitude to a lower, the speed of the flow is reduced as energy is being utilized by sediments with the suspension of coarser particles midway, thereby silt deposition in route. It may cause the widening of rivers which can further cause erosion of river banks and embankments. Sedimentation in rivers leads to a decrease in navigable depth and causes riverbeds to rise, resulting in drainage congestion. To address this issue, it becomes essential to remove sediment from specific locations strategically. In reservoirs, the removal of sediment can increase its life and minimize downstream stakeholder risk. The key physical processes of rivers are mainly sediment transport, bank erosion, and associated channel mobility. Hence, their understanding plays a crucial role in defining river restoration and management strategies. The main causes of increased sedimentation in rivers are being studied and they mostly include rapid urbanization and industrialization in flood plains, encroachment of river beds, changes caused due to various human activities, and deforestation in the catchment area of river, etc. Currently, sediment management in reservoirs and dams is becoming crucial for the development of water resources and management. Reservoirs have been used globally and have provided reliable water supply for irrigation, domestic, industrial, hydropower generation, flood management, etc. The Union Ministry of Jal Shakti is actively involved with the framework of sediment management, for holistically managing the sediment. This framework will involve concerned stakeholders such as state governments, other ministries, and various departments, etc. “About 50,000 large dams across the world will lose 24-28 percent water storage capacity by 2050 due to sediment trapped in them”, a report by the United Nations Institute for Water, Environment and Health showed. Classification of Sediment Sediment transport is the movement of organic and inorganic particles by water. Fine organic and inorganic material erodes from land surfaces, flows downhill to the river, and is then transported downstream as suspended sediment. Sediment is classified based on the size of the particle. Sediment is called coarse if its diameter is greater than 0.25mm while it is medium-sized if its diameter is ranged between 0.062mm to 0.25mm and is called fine sediment if its diameter is less than 0.062mm. The total sediment load includes bed load, suspended load, and wash load. Sediment deposition in rivers at any place depends on their catchment/watershed characteristics, size, geological disposition along the course of the river, and other human interventions. Alterations in sediment quality and quantity can significantly affect both rivers and reservoirs. These changes serve as valuable resources but can also pose challenges in their unique ways. Stakeholders Involved in Transport Study Sediment management plays a crucial role in conducting transport studies. It is an essential aspect that cannot be neglected when studying sediment movement and its impact on natural systems. A few applications of sediment management are water resource management, port management, inland water transport, ecosystem management, etc. Each stakeholder has a different point of view and has a different aspect of each problem. The stakeholder process, therefore, deserves a lot of attention. A few stakeholders interested in the sediment transport study are: Government Agencies: These include local, regional, and national agencies responsible for environmental protection, water resources management, and infrastructure development. They set policies, monitor river health, and manage sediment-related projects. Environmental Organizations: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and advocacy groups focus on preserving habitats, improving water quality, and maintaining ecological balance. Local Communities: Residents who live near rivers are directly affected by sediment transport as it impacts water quality, flood risks, and recreational opportunities. They may also depend on the rivers for fishing, agriculture, and transportation. Sediment Management in Rivers and Watersheds Minimizing the sediment intake is very important to ensure the optimal functionality and longevity of a dam or reservoir. This requires a two-pronged approach: catchment area treatment and appropriate land practices planning to address unsustainable land use to reduce sediment production and soil erosion. If sediment is not removed from run-of-river facilities before it enters canal turbines, heavy siltation in canals may cause clogging of water intakes. It is important to prioritize catchment area interventions because they arrest silt within the boundary of a watershed which helps in minimizing siltation in river beds and reservoirs. For rivers, it is important

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Dcescs Experts' Articles Maritime Security

The ground situation of Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) in the Indo-Pacific strategic space 

Key Highlights China has worked assiduously to change maritime geography through force and cartographic manipulation. This started with its excessive claims in the South China Sea. Monitoring the South China Sea has become necessary for China, the USA, and the regional players, many of whom conflict with China on the issue of the extent of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The most recent sighting of a Jin-class nuclear submarine in the Taiwan Straits indicates the complexities of the underwater environment worldwide, notably in narrow waterways and contested areas. The most recent sighting of a Jin-class nuclear submarine in the Taiwan Straits indicates the complexities of the underwater environment worldwide, notably in narrow waterways and contested areas. India has enormous interests in the events in the South China Sea and the Pacific, as those events impact India’s readiness and posturing in that region. China has accused the USA of nuclearising the Pacific, ignoring the fact that it has a nuclear arsenal that is threatening regional peace and balance. The concept of Indo-Pacific has slowly and steadily occupied centre stage in international geopolitics and strategy. There are no illusions about the nature of power play in this region due to competition for space and influence. China has tried to work assiduously to change maritime geography through force and cartographic manipulation. This started with the excessive claims made by China in the South China Sea (SCS) [i] using the nine-dash line that apparently contained all the sea space that China needed to protect its strategic and commercial interests. Progressively, it built artificial Islands to augment its all-around capability beyond the first and second lines of defence.  “The military structures, airfields, Advance Landing Grounds (ALGs), and the A2AD initiatives were meant to keep the US Navy at bay and have response mechanisms intact at the outer peripheries for both offensive and defensive operations.” The USA, on its power with envious global reach and influence, has been taking measures to challenge the ascendency of China in the region. The power play is accentuated in the maritime domain due to the ease of operating in the global commons and territorial waters. “Monitoring the South China Sea has become necessary for China, the USA, and the regional players, many of whom conflict with China on the issue of the extent of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The disputes have turned ugly, and China has not hesitated to use force to buttress its excessive claims in the EEZ of maritime neighbours.” The use of maritime militia [ii] on the fishing fleets, notably against the Philippines, has unnerved other maritime neighbours who need to be equipped to challenge the maritime might of China. The USA has used the FONOPs [iii] to keep its pressure on China by conducting regular sea patrols in the South China Sea. These missions would invariably be used for data collection using passive and active sensors on all platforms. The data thus collected would be used to optimize sensor/weapon performance, stealth missions, and deployment of submarines and UUVs. China has likewise deployed many missions in its areas of interest. The notable deployment is in the Taiwan Straits, with the stated objective of unifying Taiwan by hook or crook. The mapping of the depths is of great strategic significance to the players in the region. Such surveys have also been of great importance in terms of securing food and energy security in the backdrop of dwindling resources. There have been reports of mishaps/sightings underwater. The most recent sighting of a Jin-class nuclear submarine in the Taiwan straits indicates the complexities of the underwater environment in different parts of the world, notably in narrow waterways and contested areas [iv]. These occurrences highlight the ongoing nature of contestation for enhancing underwater domain awareness, essential during peace and hostilities short of war. “While the activities on the surface are regularly monitored and reported, the underwater domain still remains the exclusive purview of those who can. Considerable efforts have been put in by both sides to augment the surveillance capability underwater. The underwater profile in the SCS is not exactly conducive for submarine operations. This is a major factor for deploying sub-surface forces on both sides depending on the developments in a near-conflict scenario.” The USA has had the advantage of maintaining an underwater surveillance system to monitor the movement of submarines during the Cold War with the use of SOSUS. Going back to the days of the Cold War, one is reminded of the underwater sensors used regularly to keep track of SSNs and SSBNs of the Soviet Union during the Cold War. It is possible that updated sensors would now be used in the Pacific as the USA and China are engaged in the area with overlapping interests. “India has enormous interests in the happenings in the South China Sea and in the Pacific as the happenings in that region of importance impact the readiness and posturing of India in the Indo-Pacific. There are reports of merging the US and Japanese technology for monitoring the underwater targets in areas of interest in the western Pacific[v].” That technology from the Cold War period lends itself to refinement and upgradation to use modern sensors and methods to keep the areas of interest under surveillance. The use of unmanned underwater vessels (UUVs) while minimizing the use of humans and the loss of trained crew in the event of an accident has added a new dimension to underwater warfare, which could be termed the silent wars below the sea surface. From the Chinese side, there are reports that it has replicated the Great Chinese Wall on the land along the first line of defence to create an underwater wall. The Chinese have also invested heavily in dual-purpose research vessels, numbering around 64 vessels of different sizes and capabilities. These are routinely deployed for tracking missile/space programmes and gathering invaluable underwater data through its sensors and deploying UAVs (underwater autonomous vessels). “The importance of the Indian Ocean has not been lost sight

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Marine Spatial Planinng (1) Science and Technology

From Crisis to Solution: Tackling Water Quality Issues in India

Key Highlights Severe water pollution crisis: India faces significant water pollution issues, with more than 70% of its surface water resources contaminated, leading to approximately 50,000 deaths annually due to waterborne diseases. Economic impact: Poor water quality has extensive economic implications, costing India around 6% of its GDP annually due to public health expenses, reduced agricultural productivity, and the increased cost of industrial water treatment. Government initiatives: Programs like Namami Gange, AMRUT, and Jal Jeevan Mission have made some progress in improving water quality and infrastructure, but many regions still suffer from significant pollution and water stress. Stakeholders involved: Effective water management requires the collaboration of central and state governments, local municipalities, NGOs, the private sector, academic institutions, and local communities to address the multifaceted challenges of water pollution. Strategic solutions: Improving water quality in India involves strengthening regulations, promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing community participation and education, and investing in innovative technologies for water treatment and monitoring.  India faces a severe water pollution crisis exacerbated by rapid population growth and industrialization. Over 70% of the country’s surface water resources are contaminated, causing around 50,000 deaths annually due to waterborne diseases. This issue not only poses significant public health risks but also impacts the economy, costing India approximately 6% of its GDP annually. Addressing this crisis requires a comprehensive understanding of the contributing factors, implications, and strategic measures needed to improve and sustain water quality. Factors affecting water quality Water pollution in India is attributed to both natural and anthropogenic factors. Natural factors include geological processes such as the mineral composition of rocks and soil, which can alter the mineral content of water. Weathering and erosion naturally break down rocks, leading to sedimentation in water bodies. Hydrological factors, including flow rate, volume, and seasonal variations such as snowmelt and rainfall, significantly alter water quality. Biological factors, such as microorganisms and vegetation, also impact water quality through metabolic processes and nutrient uptake. Anthropogenic factors are more significant contributors to water pollution in India. Agricultural activities, including the use of fertilizers and pesticides, result in runoff that introduces nutrients and chemicals into water bodies, causing eutrophication and contamination. Livestock waste also contributes pathogens to water resources. Industrial activities release pollutants like heavy metals and toxic substances into water bodies, while thermal pollution from heated industrial processes alters the temperature of water bodies, impacting aquatic ecosystems. Urbanization contributes to water pollution through stormwater runoff carrying oil, grease, plastics, and other pollutants. Improperly treated sewage introduces pathogens, nutrients, and chemicals into water bodies. Additionally, climate change affects water temperatures, impacting the solubility of oxygen and other chemicals, affecting aquatic life. Effects of water quality degradation The effects of water quality degradation are extensive and multifaceted. Environmentally, polluted water bodies lead to the loss of biodiversity and degradation of aquatic life due to toxic substances. Excessive nutrients cause eutrophication, resulting in algal blooms that deplete oxygen and harm marine life. Sedimentation and pollution disrupt natural habitats, while changes in water temperature from thermal pollution affect ecosystem functions. Human health is severely impacted by waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea caused by contaminated water. Chemical contamination from toxic substances like heavy metals poses serious health risks, and nutrient pollution can cause harmful algal blooms, further affecting water safety. Socio-economically, poor water quality leads to economic losses in sectors such as fishing, aquaculture, tourism, and water treatment. Agriculture is affected by contaminated water, which impacts irrigation, crop yields, and livestock health “Socially, unequal access to clean water leads to public health burdens and community displacement.” Applications of water based on its quality Water quality determines its applications, ranging from high-quality drinking water to utility quality for non-drinking purposes. Drinking water must meet safety standards, be free from harmful pathogens and toxic chemicals, and be suitable for household consumption. Moderate-quality water, suitable for agricultural and industrial use, should be low in salinity and toxic substances, supporting aquaculture, irrigation, and industrial processes. Basic-quality water for recreation and environmental use must be safe for human contact and used in swimming pools, water parks, and lakes. Utility-quality water, suitable for municipal and firefighting use, should be free from contaminants that could damage firefighting equipment. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has identified around 351 polluted river stretches across the country. Groundwater, crucial for drinking and irrigation, is also heavily contaminated. A 2022 study by the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur found that nearly 60% of groundwater samples across India contained nitrate levels above permissible limits. Additionally, the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti reported in 2023 that 275 out of 650 districts face severe water stress. Economic implications of water quality degradation The economic implications of poor water quality are significant. Public health costs due to waterborne diseases burden India’s healthcare system, with fecal coliform levels in many urban rivers exceeding safe limits. Agriculture, which accounts for about 16% of India’s GDP and employs over 50% of the workforce, relies heavily on water. “Contaminated water used for irrigation reduces crop yields and quality, affecting food security and farmers’ incomes.” Excessive use of fertilizers has contaminated 25% of India’s freshwater sources with nitrates and phosphates, leading to soil degradation. Industries, that require large quantities of water for production, face increased water treatment costs and reduced efficiency due to polluted water sources. Water scarcity and pollution affect profitability and sustainability in water-intensive sectors like textiles, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Tourism, which significantly contributes to India’s economy, is also impacted by water quality, as polluted rivers and lakes deter tourists and affect local economies. Clean water bodies provide crucial ecosystem services such as fisheries and biodiversity, supporting livelihoods and economic activities in rural areas. Water quality significantly impacts fisheries and aquaculture. Key water quality parameters include dissolved oxygen, pH levels, nutrient levels, temperature, and contaminants. Dissolved oxygen is essential for the respiration of aquatic organisms, and low levels can lead to hypoxia, resulting in fish kills. pH levels affect the solubility and toxicity of chemicals, with extreme levels being lethal to aquatic species. Excessive nutrients

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Tdhtcnh Science and Technology

Averting Disaster: Navigating the Perilous Seas of Maritime Collisions

Key Highlights Maritime collisions, fueled by surging traffic, pose a grave threat to lives, economies, and ecosystems. Human errors, navigational hazards, and adverse weather are key contributors to these disasters, often resulting in oil spills and extensive environmental damage. The Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) Framework offers a multi-faceted approach to averting collisions through advanced technologies and collaborative strategies. The Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) Framework offers a multi-faceted approach to averting collisions through advanced technologies and collaborative strategies. Prioritizing collision prevention is not only an environmental necessity but also an economic imperative, safeguarding our planet and future prosperity. Maritime transport serves as a cornerstone of the global economy, facilitating international trade and the exchange of goods across continents. Its efficiency and cost-effectiveness have contributed significantly to economic growth and globalization. However, the surge in maritime traffic over the years has brought about an increased risk of accidents, particularly collisions. Maritime collisions, where vessels collide at sea, are a grave threat lurking beneath the waves of global trade. As maritime traffic surges, so does the risk of these catastrophic events, which can lead to devastating loss of life, environmental havoc, and economic turmoil. Picture this: massive vessels colliding amidst the vast ocean, spewing oil, disrupting trade routes, and leaving ecosystems scarred. The aftermath is a stark reminder of the urgent need to prioritize maritime safety. This article delves into the causes and consequences of maritime collisions, emphasizing the importance of prevention and the role of advanced technologies in averting these disasters. Some Major maritime collisions in recent years are as follows: The collision between the RO-RO ferry Ulysse and the container ship CSL Virginia in the Mediterranean Sea in October 2018. The impact resulted in Ulysse’s bow becoming wedged deep into the hull of the CSL Virginia, causing a significant breach and a subsequent leak of nearly 500 cubic meters of heavy fuel oil. The collision between the USS John S. McCain and the merchant ship Alnic MC in the Singapore Strait in August 2017. The incident resulted in extensive damage to the USS John S. McCain, with repair costs amounting to a staggering $72 million. The collision between the bulk carrier Wakashio and a coral reef off the coast of Mauritius in July 2020. The grounding of the vessel resulted in a major oil spill that caused significant damage to the local marine environment. The collision between the bulk carrier Wakashio and a coral reef off the coast of Mauritius in July 2020. The grounding of the vessel resulted in a major oil spill that caused significant damage to the local marine environment. The collision between the grain ship Grand Rodopi and the Australian fishing vessel Apollo in Port Lincoln, South Australia in October 2010. The impact crushed the Apollo, causing $20 million in damages. Source: shipsandports.com Several factors contribute to maritime collisions, including human error, navigational challenges, adverse weather conditions, and technical malfunctions. Human error encompasses a range of mistakes, from misjudgment of distances and speeds to inadequate communication and lack of adherence to safety regulations. Adverse weather conditions, such as fog, storms, or strong currents, can impair visibility and maneuverability, increasing the risk of collisions. Technical malfunctions, including equipment failures or software glitches, can also contribute to accidents. In the Ulysse and CSL Virginia collision, human errors such as the watch officers being distracted or inattentive to radar alarms, as well as the CSL Virginia anchoring in a busy sea lane, were cited as primary causes. The USS John S. McCain collision was attributed to a lack of effective oversight and training in the U.S. Navy, leading to inadequate bridge procedures. Additionally, a loss of steering that was mishandled, crew fatigue and lack of training on control systems, and non-compliance with casualty procedures exacerbated the situation. In the case of the MV Wakashio oil spill, the vessel lost power and drifted into a reef off Mauritius, causing the spill. Poor clean-up efforts then led to further environmental damage and loss of life in the area. In the case of the MV Wakashio oil spill, the vessel lost power and drifted into a reef off Mauritius, causing the spill. Poor clean-up efforts then led to further environmental damage and loss of life in the area. Environmental Aftermath: The collision between the RO-RO ferry Ulysse and the container ship CSL Virginia in the Mediterranean Sea on October 7, 2018, had significant environmental impacts. The incident resulted in a major oil spill, with approximately 530 cubic meters of bunker oil escaping from the CSL Virginia’s tanks. The oil slicks formed and drifted in the sea, causing pollution to extend over approximately 25 kilometers, with seven distinct slicks observed. The pollution was carried by currents and winds, eventually reaching the French Riviera, where it impacted 49 beaches, causing widespread damage and requiring extensive clean-up efforts. The environmental impacts included: Source: acespace.org Oil Spill: The collision released a significant amount of bunker oil into the sea, which formed slicks and drifted towards the French Riviera. This led to extensive pollution on beaches, requiring a massive clean-up operation involving over 150 public actors and involving more than 96,000 cumulative working hours. Beach Pollution: The oil slicks arrived on the beaches of the French Riviera on October 16, 2018, causing significant pollution and requiring immediate action to clean up the affected areas. Environmental Damage: The pollution caused by the oil spill had a significant impact on the local marine environment, with the oil slicks forming and drifting in the sea, causing damage to marine life and ecosystems. Environmental Damage: The pollution caused by the oil spill had a significant impact on the local marine environment, with the oil slicks forming and drifting in the sea, causing damage to marine life and ecosystems. Coastal Cleanup: The incident required extensive coastal cleanup efforts, involving public actors, private companies, and government agencies. The cleanup operations were carried out over several weeks, to restore the affected beaches and marine environment. Just a single accident like this can cause irreversible

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Dreging Uncategorized

Maintenance and Capital Dredging: Essential Practices for India’s Ports and Harbours

Key Highlights This article highlights the importance of dredging in India. It talked about Maintenance and Capital dredging. How can the UDA framework help with the issues faced in dredging? How can the UDA framework help with the issues faced in dredging? What is Dredging, and why is it important? Dredging is the underwater excavation or removal of sediments, rocks, and other materials from the bottom of waterways, harbours, and other aquatic environments. It involves using specialized equipment and machinery to dig up and remove accumulated sediment and debris from the floor of water bodies. This process helps maintain proper depths for safe navigation of ships and boats, prevents flooding by removing obstructions from channels and rivers, and enables new coastal development projects. Dredging is critical to India’s economic growth and environmental management since it serves its enormous network of ports and waterways. With over 7,500 kilometres of coastline and several rivers, dredging is critical to ensure the efficient operation of India’s maritime infrastructure. In financial terms, dredging can be quite costly. The Dredging Corporation of India (DCI), a key player in the country’s dredging industry, has reported significant expenditures on various projects. “For example, DCI has been allocated 122.5 crores for maintenance dredging at Cochin port and its waterways for 2022-23. This significant investment highlights the critical economic importance of dredging, especially considering that Cochin is just one of India’s 12 major ports. A general awareness should be made among the public since dredging can significantly impact the economy. ” Dredging projects are normally classified into capital, maintenance and remedial dredging. India primarily undertakes two distinct forms of dredging: (1) maintenance dredging and (2) capital dredging, each serving specific purposes and addressing unique challenges. Maintenance Dredging Maintenance dredging is a process that aims to remove the accumulated silt, sand, and other deposits that gradually build up over time in navigational channels, ports and harbours. Considering a tropical region like India, we can expect higher sedimentation rates due to various conditions such as high rainfall, river discharge and coastal erosion. “Regular maintenance is required to ensure efficient navigation in ports and navigation channels by removing these accumulated sediments.” To employ these sediments for operations like beach replenishment and land reclamation, they are dredged and dumped in authorized offshore and onshore places. In India, ports like Jawaharlal Nehru Port (Nhava Sheva), Mumbai Port, and Chennai Port usually undertake maintenance dredging every year due to high sedimentation rates and heavy traffic. Maintenance dredging has both immediate and long-term impacts. In the short term, changes in turbidity significantly affect water quality during dredging operations. The increase in turbidity disrupts the local benthic environment. Long-term effects arise from fine suspended solids that take longer to settle, leading to prolonged elevated turbidity levels at greater depths. This persistent turbidity can adversely impact the local aquatic ecosystem. Once a dredging operation has been completed, maintaining the site or port is essential to ensure that the initial investment remains intact and functions as planned. Furthermore, maintenance dredging is crucial for the economic sustainability of ports and coastal communities. By keeping channels and berthing areas clear, ports can accommodate larger vessels, essential for global trade. This prevents delays and reduces shipping costs, making ports more competitive. Additionally, reusing dredged materials for coastal protection and development projects can help mitigate the effects of coastal erosion and provide new land for infrastructure and development. In densely populated and economically significant coastal regions like India, efficient maintenance dredging supports ongoing maritime activities and fosters regional development, ensuring long-term economic growth and stability. What is Capital Dredging? Dredging, carried out in a new location and in material that has never been dredged before, is referred to as a capital project. For example, land reclamation for airport platforms and artificial islands, new port development, deepening and enlarging access channels, berthing areas, docks, and turning basins are all permanent necessities to meet the demands of growing trade and economy. In the case of capital or new work dredging, it is most likely that the work will be done by contract. Dredging equipment involves expensive capital plant investment, specially trained operators and logistical support, and experienced project managers. This fact makes it particularly suitable for performance by contractors equipped and staffed to accomplish such work and with proven expertise. Capital dredging plays a crucial role in developing infrastructure and the economy by enabling the creation and expansion of vital maritime facilities. For instance, constructing new ports and deepening existing access channels facilitate increased cargo traffic and accommodate larger vessels, thereby boosting trade and economic activities. This is essential for countries relying heavily on maritime transport to import and export goods. Additionally, capital dredging supports the development of strategic infrastructures such as artificial islands and airport platforms like Kansai International Airport, which are pivotal in regions with limited land space. These projects provide new commercial and industrial opportunities, enhance connectivity, and support tourism, contributing significantly to economic growth. Moreover, by creating deeper berthing areas and turning basins, capital dredging ensures the safety and efficiency of maritime operations, reducing congestion and lowering operational costs for shipping companies. The strategic implementation of capital dredging projects is a foundation for sustainable economic development, fostering growth in trade, tourism, and other related industries. Environmental impact assessment Since capital dredging takes place in virgin soil, it is necessary to do an environmental impact assessment to determine the effects on the benthic ecosystem precisely. Consider the instance of capital dredging in Australia’s Gladstone Harbour, which resulted in extremely high turbidity levels and threatened the Great Barrier Reef. “According to reports, the dredging operations caused the harbour’s turbidity levels to rise noticeably, agitating silt that contained hazardous heavy metals. Due to the suffocation of seagrass beds and the release of poisons into the water, this negatively impacted human health and marine ecosystems. We can learn from this example how crucial it is to consider the possible negative effects of capital dredging projects carefully and to put strong mitigation measures in place to

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Sdm Science and Technology

Modern Techniques in the Underwater Sediment Classification: Can Machine Learning (ML) provide another path?

Key Highlights Remote sensing technologies are methods for acquiring information about the Earth’s surface and subsurface without direct physical contact. A sub-bottom profiler generates low-frequency sonar waves that penetrate the seafloor, reflecting off various subsurface sediment layers. Continuous refinement of these models can enhance accuracy over time, ensuring more efficient and effective analysis in the future. Continuous refinement of these models can enhance accuracy over time, ensuring more efficient and effective analysis in the future. Existing methods play a very important role in solving this issue, but a future of machine learning and artificial intelligence can provide an efficient and intelligent solution. Overview This article will discuss the different methods currently used for sediment classification, ranging from traditional field methods to remote sensing and GIS. It will also explain why sediment classification is essential and the need for a more straightforward approach to this problem. It will detail how machine learning can provide approximate yet valuable answers to this problem and make it a much simpler problem. What is sedimentation? It might seem unusual to start with a question, but questions are often the best way to explore and learn about a topic, especially as important as this one. So, let us dive right into it but in steps: Particles: Sediments are broken-down particles that settle on the underwater floor. These sediments come from various sources, such as rocks, cliffs, glaciers, etc. They erode over time, and their particles are transported to basins by natural forces. Accumulation: The processes described above occur over extended periods, accumulating layers of different particles on the seabed. This accumulation is driven by gravity and influenced by water flow and turbulence, forming sediment layers. Sediment Layers: The layers described in the above step are unique and important to understanding the underwater ecosystem. They are characterized by soil composition, grain size, etc. What do these layers hold for us? What is the need for their classification? Sediment layers, in general, can be labelled as a key to the past. They can tell us about past geological events, the geography of the area, and much more. It also helps us understand climate change. “Sediment layers often contain valuable natural resources that are important for any economy. To draw all these inferences, we need to classify the sediment layers and determine each layer’s properties. This allows researchers to analyse and find patterns in sediment deposition, which can then lead to further inferences. ” What exactly is sediment classification, and how does it happen presently? Classifying different sediments based on their physical and chemical characteristics is a very detailed process. It consists of many segments, which are listed below: Grain Size Classification Mineral Composition Chemical Composition Chemical Composition Sediment Texture & Structure Analysis of Organic Content Here, I will discuss some modern techniques used for this analysis. Methods for sediment classification vary in all verticals from basic to intricate and approximate to very accurate. The most basic method is analysing the different layers by hand. Field Sieving and Core Sampling, with the help of grain charts, are other methods used to perform this analysis. In field sieving, you use sieves of different sizes to filter out the soil, find the grain size, and then classify it. We also have more advanced methods, which are listed below: Laser Diffraction: This method uses the principle of light scattering. We shine a laser on the sample, and particles of different sizes deflect light at different angles. The basic relation is that the scattering angle is inversely proportional to the particle size. After tabulating all the angles, we will generate a particle distribution graph, which will be analysed later to get the results. Sediment Image Analysis: It is what it sounds like. A detailed analysis of their visual properties is done by looking at images. This method uses advanced software and technologies to analyse the sediment particles’ size, shape, and texture. Remote Sensing Technologies: Remote sensing technologies are methods used to acquire information about the Earth’s surface and subsurface without direct physical contact. These technologies utilize electromagnetic radiation (EMR) to detect and monitor various environmental and geological features. Data collection involves deploying sensors on satellites, aircraft, or drones to detect EMR across various spectral bands. Data processing includes preprocessing to correct errors and image analysis to classify and map sediment properties. Validation is done through ground truthing with field measurements to ensure data accuracy and reliability. Spectral Analysis: Spectral analysis is a technique used to analyse the properties of materials based on their interaction with electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Scientists can infer various characteristics, such as composition and structure, by examining the specific wavelengths of light that a material absorbs, reflects, or emits. In sediment classification, spectral analysis helps identify different types of sediments based on their unique spectral signatures. All these methods have advantages, yet they all have a disadvantage: extensive on-field assessment and post-processing of data. This is costly, time-consuming, and labour-intensive. Machine learning can provide another path to this issue. But before we come to our ML algorithm, we first need to understand the data this algorithm will work on. A sub-bottom profiler generates low-frequency sonar waves that penetrate the seafloor, reflecting off various subsurface sediment layers. The instrument records the time and amplitude for these waves to return, creating a vertical subsurface profile. This data is processed using mathematical models based on energy-time analysis and reflection coefficients to classify sediment types. Advanced signal processing techniques, such as filtering and deconvolution, are applied to enhance data quality. The reflection coefficients help identify interfaces between different sediment layers, allowing for the creation of detailed maps that show sediment layer thickness, continuity, and composition. Although this is a novel approach, it still does not solve the extensive post-processing issue. Mathematical models are very complex, and it takes a lot of time to compute results. To solve this issue, I plan to make an ML model that can use this data to generate sediment classification. Now, the main question is, how? Per my

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Djncj ESG and Climate Risk

How does UDA help in Climate Change Risk Assessment? A case for the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)

  • July 18, 2024
  • 0 Comments

Key Highlights The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) has warmed by approximately 1.2°C over the past century, leading to significant changes, including expanding the Indian Ocean Warm Pool (IOWP). Warming has caused higher sea levels and shifts in climate dynamics, potentially disrupting critical rainfall patterns for countries like India. Expanding Oxygen Minimum Zones (OMZs) and declining net primary production (NPP) threaten marine life, leading to shifts in fish populations and potential declines in India’s marine fish catch by 10% to 30% by 2050. Expanding Oxygen Minimum Zones (OMZs) and declining net primary production (NPP) threaten marine life, leading to shifts in fish populations and potential declines in India’s marine fish catch by 10% to 30% by 2050. India’s blue economy, crucial for GDP and livelihoods, is threatened by coastal flooding, erosion, and infrastructure vulnerability, requiring policy interventions for re-skilling and upskilling. The Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) framework and Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) are essential for addressing ocean governance challenges through enhanced surveillance, monitoring technologies, and adaptive strategies for sustainable resource management and coastal resilience. Introduction Over the years, the ocean’s climate change risk has been increasing alarmingly. The past decade has recorded some of the highest-ever sea surface temperatures (SST) and events like coral bleaching in several ocean regions. Given the accelerating rate of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, it is very likely that in the coming years, climate change will significantly disrupt the entire marine ecosystem. This disruption will indirectly affect humanity, threatening livelihoods and reducing the contribution of the blue economy to the world. The Indian Ocean region, experiencing the highest increase in the net ocean heat content (OHC) in the 21st century compared to other oceans, is particularly vulnerable. This ocean caters to approximately 33% of the world’s population despite covering only 20% of the Earth’s water surface. Therefore, there is an urgent need to adopt a framework that addresses the climate change problem in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), considering factors such as the unique features of tropical waters, socio-cultural, economic, and political conditions of the local people, and the impact of climate change on the underwater ecosystem. Despite the formation of various global groups like COP and UNEP and the signing of various agreements by the world leaders to tackle climate change, no impactful on-ground result has been achieved till now. Climate Change Impact: Indian Ocean The Indian Ocean (IO) is experiencing one of the fastest surface warming rates (SST) among the world’s oceans, with a rise of approximately 1.2°C over the past century. The Pacific Ocean has seen an increase of about 0.6°C, while the Atlantic Ocean’s SST has risen by approximately 0.7°C. This comparison highlights the varying impacts of global warming on different ocean basins, with the Indian Ocean showing particularly significant changes. This rapid warming has raised the temperature of the upper water layer of the IO basin above 28°C, leading to a dramatic expansion of the Indian Ocean Warm Pool (IOWP) over the past two decades, now covering nearly 100% of the northeast and central IO.Additionally, the heat content of the IO has increased abruptly, contributing to more than a quarter of the global ocean heat gain in the upper 700 meters over the recent decade. Consequently, rising sea levels and melting ice sheets significantly threaten flooding in low-lying coastal regions. “Given India’s high coastal population density, this may lead to loss of livelihood and displacement of people. Furthermore, higher SST influences climate dynamics and likely impacts the ENSO pattern, altering atmospheric circulation. This deviation from the actual pattern will ultimately harm countries like India that rely on this phenomenon for rainfall. Studies indicate that by the end of the 21st century, the IOR may experience permanent marine heat waves, exacerbating these issues.” Impact on the Underwater Ecosystem Disbalance in the Fish Population: A recent review of Oxygen Minimum Zones (OMZs) revealed that low oxygen concentrations in coastal areas of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal directly threaten marine life and impact nitrogen cycles in these ecosystems. With continued warming, OMZs are expected to expand, further intensifying anoxic conditions in the coastal IO zones. Several studies have noted declining trends in net primary production (NPP) in the IO, primarily due to warming-induced stronger stratification, which reduces nutrient availability. Model simulations project declines in NPP in the tropical IO, indicating up to a 25% reduction in phytoplankton carbon in most IO regions between 1990–1999 and 2090–2099. This will lead to behavioural changes for various fish species, forcing them to migrate to other habitable zones. Recent observations confirm that many tropical marine species remain in temperate waters. Changes in spawning patterns and dietary habits will potentially lead to the overpopulation of some species and a decline in others, disrupting prey-predator relationships and, ultimately, the whole food web. By 2050, studies suggest that India’s marine fish catch could decrease by about 10% to 30% due to climate change risks. These impacts underline the urgent need for sustainable management and adaptive strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems and fisheries. Proactive measures will be essential to preserving biodiversity and securing livelihoods dependent on these critical resources. Coral Bleaching: A World Economic Forum report indicates that if anthropogenic emissions of GHGs are not kept below the threshold level, it may trigger a climate tipping point, leading to widespread coral bleaching in low-latitude waters by 2040. Coral reefs are crucial for the underwater ecosystem, supporting life for many marine species by providing food and shelter. They also support fisheries, tourism, and recreation, offering global economic benefits. In fact, India’s tourism sector significantly contributes to the economy, especially coastal tourism, which heavily depends on corals. “Increased CO2 levels cause ocean acidification, impairing the ability of corals to produce calcium carbonate, which weakens their skeletons, making them more susceptible to damage and bleaching. Rising temperatures have caused widespread coral bleaching across the IO, compromising habitats for associated marine organisms. The consequences of coral bleaching include loss of biodiversity, ecosystem collapse, and increased risks of erosion

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