Assessing environmental quality and livelihood sustainability in the Indian Sundarban under climate variability

Abstract

Sundarban deltaic ecosystem is highly vulnerable to environmental degradation and livelihood insecurity related to weaknesses in ecological conditions and dependence on natural resources. The study examines the impact of the air, water, soil and acoustic quality variables in Gosaba block on livelihood dynamics and sustainable development of the region. Particulate pollution is identified as a serious concern in the Air Quality Index, with the concentration of PM_2.5 in the range of 22 – 68 μg m⁻³, and PM₁₀ in the range of 26 – 74 μg m⁻³. Biomass burning, transport emissions and circulation are associated with high particles. Water bodies with TDS content between 300 and 800 mg L⁻¹ are considered as moderately saline due to tidal intrusion and groundwater mineralization. The contribution from biomass fuel use and domestic combustion is confirmed by the presence of formaldehyde (0.001-0.07 mg/L) and TVOC (0.01-0.063 mg m⁻³). The ambient noise level in the residential areas is 38 – 88 dB, and sometimes exceeds normal limits. Agriculture, fisheries and mangroves dependent livelihoods are greatly affected by environmental stress. Poor quality particulate matter and high-water salinity reduce agricultural productivity, whereas degradation contributes to livelihood vulnerability and migration. According to the regression model, environmental quality plays a significant role in influencing diversification of livelihoods in the Indian Sundarban. The findings indicate that the livelihood diversification and adaptive capacity of the environmentally stable regions (Pakhiralay, Dobaki, Sadhpur) are comparatively higher than the other regions. Understanding of integrated ecosystem-based management, livelihood diversification and climate-resilient infrastructure are the key elements for sustainable development.