Vulnerability of Al-hodidah wetlands in Yemen: main socio-economic causes. (2019) - Al-Mahfadi, A.S.
Abstract: Wetlands provide a lot of benefits to local people such as cultivation, recreation, education, timber production, etc. Like any other country in the world, the aquatic biodiversity of wetlands in Yemen faces several threats as well as a regime of unsustainable human pressures. Several coastal wetlands were lost due to many problems. Understanding of the current situation could identify strategies to ensure the long-term conservation of wetlands. Therefore, this study aims to present the direct and indirect socio-economic causes of the coastal wetland degradation in Yemen. Ra's Eisa area (Al-hodidah coast in Red Sea) was chosen as the case study, while various people (decision makers, experts, practical coordinators and local people) were interviewed. The results show that livestock, agricultural production and wastes are the main socio-economic causes, in addition to tourism and Ra's Eisa Port activities near the wetland area. These causes are a result of the vegetative cover removal in the wetlands. The conclusion shows that the wetlands classification, awareness programs and emergency protection project should be implemented for all stakeholders especially local people. Finally, recommendations are suggested to guide decision-makers to achieve a sustainable vision for wetlands.