Deltaic regions across the globe are increasingly vulnerable to climate-induced hazards such as flooding, salinity intrusion, and biodiversity loss. Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) offer ecologically sound, low-cost strategies for enhancing resilience in such landscapes. This study explores sacred groves—community-protected forest patches embedded in cultural and spiritual traditions—as underrecognized NbS in delta environments, with a specific focus on the Sundarbans Delta of India and the Shravan Kavadia grove in Kutch. Drawing from field-based ecological assessments, community narratives, and spatial mapping, the research illustrates how sacred groves contribute to hydrological regulation, carbon sequestration, habitat protection, and cultural cohesion. Often situated on elevated or ecologically strategic sites, these groves act as natural buffers during cyclones, reduce erosion, and conserve biodiversity, including native climate-resilient species. By foregrounding the cultural logic of conservation, this study emphasizes how traditional ecological knowledge and spiritual value systems reinforce long-term stewardship. Integrating sacred groves into formal climate adaptation and delta restoration frameworks could enhance both ecological functionality and social resilience. The paper advocates a policy shift recognizing these culturally embedded spaces as vital components of green infrastructure in the face of climate change.

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Sacred Groves as Nature Based Solutions to Enhance Delta Resilience

  • Sonal Tiwari,
  • Atreyee Ghosh

摘要

Deltaic regions across the globe are increasingly vulnerable to climate-induced hazards such as flooding, salinity intrusion, and biodiversity loss. Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) offer ecologically sound, low-cost strategies for enhancing resilience in such landscapes. This study explores sacred groves—community-protected forest patches embedded in cultural and spiritual traditions—as underrecognized NbS in delta environments, with a specific focus on the Sundarbans Delta of India and the Shravan Kavadia grove in Kutch. Drawing from field-based ecological assessments, community narratives, and spatial mapping, the research illustrates how sacred groves contribute to hydrological regulation, carbon sequestration, habitat protection, and cultural cohesion. Often situated on elevated or ecologically strategic sites, these groves act as natural buffers during cyclones, reduce erosion, and conserve biodiversity, including native climate-resilient species. By foregrounding the cultural logic of conservation, this study emphasizes how traditional ecological knowledge and spiritual value systems reinforce long-term stewardship. Integrating sacred groves into formal climate adaptation and delta restoration frameworks could enhance both ecological functionality and social resilience. The paper advocates a policy shift recognizing these culturally embedded spaces as vital components of green infrastructure in the face of climate change.