Integrating local knowledge and innovative approaches for sustainable water hyacinth management towards livelihoods enhancement in rural India

Invasions of water hyacinth critically threaten aquatic ecosystems and human livelihoods. The study investigates the impact of water hyacinth proliferation on ecological and socio-economic conditions and management strategies in Kuttanad region, India. A mixed-methods approach, including surveys, Participatory Geographic Information Systems (PGIS) mapping, and stakeholder interviews, was employed to investigate the impact on the local communities. Results show that water hyacinths grow in many different backwaters, lakes, and canals and cause significant environmental damage, financial losses, and health issues for local communities. The Composite Vulnerability Index (CVI) of 3.56 (on a scale of 1-5) shows that the Pulinkunnu community is vulnerable to uncontrolled water hyacinth growth. The findings reveal significant environmental degradation, economic losses, especially income from fishing activities, and health risks associated with unchecked water hyacinth growth, highlighting the vulnerability of the affected communities. The study also identifies local knowledge and community engagement as critical components in developing sustainable management strategies that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By proposing innovative solutions like biofertilizer production, the research emphasizes the need for integrated management practices that control the spread of water hyacinth and enhance community resilience and economic opportunities.