Implementing Integrated Approaches to Preserve the Mangrove Ecosystem Services: A Study of Bangladesh Sundarbans

Abstract

The sole home for the iconic Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris), the Sundarbans mangrove forest, is now confronting multi-layered threats. This paper aims to analyse the existing integration approaches to conserve the invaluable wild species of the Sundarbans mangrove forest and critically evaluate the pragmatism and challenges of the integration approaches, such as in-situ and ex-situ methods, and the role of development partners, which include non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other actors. This study finds that tree cover substantially increased by only 4% in the Sundarbans mangrove forest, whereas various forms of mangrove forest degradation are prevalent. The vulnerability of the wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, captive breeding centres, Ecologically Critical Areas (ECAs), eco-parks, and wildlife and game reserves also raises questions regarding the preservation of wild species. Yet, many local and foreign-run NGOs are launching numerous projects to conserve the Sundarbans mangrove forest and improve the livelihood of coastal forest-reliant communities.