Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Climate change poses a significant threat to coastal ecosystems worldwide, with mangrove forests being particularly vulnerable due to their unique location and sensitivity to environmental changes. This thesis aims to assess the impact of climate change on mangrove forests in a tropical region, focusing on the ecological and socio-economic implications of these changes. The study will employ a case study approach to investigate the current state of mangrove forests in the target region, analyze historical data on climate patterns, and project future climate scenarios to predict potential impacts on these ecosystems. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, outlining the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and key definitions of terms to be used throughout the study. Chapter Two presents a comprehensive literature review on climate change impacts on coastal ecosystems, mangrove ecology, and previous studies related to the subject matter. Chapter Three details the research methodology, including the study design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. The chapter also discusses ethical considerations and potential limitations of the methodology. Chapter Four presents the findings of the study, including an analysis of climate change impacts on mangrove forests, changes in species composition, and socio-economic consequences for local communities. Finally, Chapter Five offers a conclusion and summary of the thesis, highlighting the key findings, implications for policy and management, and recommendations for future research. This thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on climate change impacts on coastal ecosystems, emphasizing the urgent need for adaptive strategies to mitigate the threats posed to mangrove forests in tropical regions.

Thesis Overview

Research Overview: The project titled "Assessing the impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems: A case study of mangrove forests in a tropical region" aims to investigate the repercussions of climate change on coastal ecosystems, focusing specifically on mangrove forests in a tropical region. Mangrove forests are vital coastal ecosystems that provide numerous ecological, economic, and social benefits. However, they are highly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, including rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and changes in temperature and precipitation patterns. The research will delve into the current state of mangrove forests in the selected tropical region and assess how climate change is affecting their health and resilience. By conducting a comprehensive case study, the project seeks to analyze the specific impacts of climate change on mangrove ecosystems, such as changes in species composition, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem services degradation. Furthermore, the study aims to identify the key drivers of climate change that are influencing mangrove forests in the tropical region under investigation. This will involve examining both direct drivers, such as temperature and sea level rise, as well as indirect drivers like land-use change and pollution. Understanding these drivers is crucial for developing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies to safeguard mangrove ecosystems in the face of climate change. The research methodology will involve a combination of field surveys, remote sensing analysis, and data modeling to assess the current status and future projections of mangrove forests in the study area. By integrating both qualitative and quantitative data, the project aims to provide a holistic understanding of the complex interactions between climate change and coastal ecosystems. Overall, this research project aspires to contribute valuable insights into the impacts of climate change on mangrove forests in tropical regions and provide evidence-based recommendations for sustainable management and conservation practices. By shedding light on this critical issue, the study aims to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect and preserve coastal ecosystems in the face of climate change challenges.