ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION AND ITS IMPACT ON COASTAL FISHERIES: CHALLENGES AND POLICY RESPONSES

Environmental degradation has become a major threat to fisheries worldwide, particularly in coastal and developing regions where communities are highly dependent on marine resources for food and livelihood. Fisheries contribute significantly to nutrition, employment, and economic growth; however, unsustainable human activities and global environmental changes are putting immense pressure on aquatic ecosystems. Among the major challenges, pollution, climate change, and habitat loss have been identified as the most critical factors impacting fish populations and fisherfolk communities.Pollution, caused by industrial waste, plastics, untreated sewage, and agricultural runoff,severely reduces water quality,depletes oxygen,andcontaminates aquatic life./0258 Climate change,through rising sea surface temperatures,irregular monsoon patterns,cyclones, and ocean acidification,disrupts fish breeding cycles and migration, thereby affecting catch stability and income levels. Similarly, the destruction of mangroves,coral reefs, and estuaries has led to the loss of natural breeding and nursery grounds, reducing fish stock and biodiversity.This study investigates the perceptions of fisherfolk regarding these environmental issues using data collected from 60 respondents in Kanyakumari District. ANOVA techniques were applied to analyze variations in perception across three major factors pollution, climate change, and habitat loss. Results indicate that pollution is perceived as the most severe environmental issue, followed by climate change and habitat loss.