Legal framework on protecting coral reefs of bay of bengal with special references to global practices

Abstract

Coral reefs are most diverse and valuable ecosystems on the planet, supporting a wide range of marine biodiversity and providing important benefits to coastal communities. Human activities such as pollution, overfishing, and climate change pose a significant threat to these delicate ecosystems. As a result, many countries around the world have developed legal frameworks to protect their coral reefs and ensure their long-term sustainability. In Bangladesh, corals grow exclusively in Saint Martin Island, located in the north-east region of the Bay of Bengal. These reefs provide essential habitats for a variety of marine species, support local fishing communities, and offer valuable tourism opportunities. However, they are also under threat from a range of human activities, including pollution from land-based sources, overfishing, and the effects of climate change. Coral reefs are known as the "rainforests of the sea" due to their high levels of biodiversity. Coral reefs act as a natural barrier that protects coastlines from the impact of storms, waves, and erosion. They absorb and dissipate the energy of incoming waves, reducing their destructive force on the shorelines. Coral reefs are major attractions for tourists, drawing visitors from around the world to places like Saint Martin Island. Coral reefs play a role in mitigating climate change by acting as carbon sinks. Coral polyps absorb and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases. The purpose of this research examines the legal framework in place to protect coral reefs in Bangladesh, with a particular focus on global practices. The research begins by analyzing the current legal protections for coral reefs in Bangladesh and assessing their effectiveness in preserving these ecosystems. This involves an examination of any laws, regulations, or policies that exist at the national or local level, as well as assessing the enforcement mechanisms in place to ensure compliance. In addition to this, the research conducts a comparative analysis of legal frameworks for coral reef protection in other countries or regions. This helps identify potential best practices that could be adapted to the context of Bangladesh and provides insights into the effectiveness of different legal approaches to coral reef protection. The research also considers the role of international agreements or organizations in coral reef protection, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity or the International Coral Reef Initiative. This helps identify opportunities for Bangladesh to collaborate with other countries and organizations in the region and around the world to strengthen its legal framework for coral reef protection. Finally, this research considers the perspectives of various stakeholders in coral reef protection, including government agencies, environmental NGOs, local communities, and businesses that rely on coral reefs. This helps identify potential conflicts or challenges in implementing a legal framework for coral reef protection and provides insights into ways to address these challenges.