What impact can human development have on coastal ecosystems?

Human development can significantly impact coastal ecosystems by reducing habitat areas and biodiversity. When coastal areas are developed for urbanization, agriculture, or industry, natural habitats such as mangroves, salt marshes, and coral reefs are often destroyed or altered. This destruction leads to the loss of the biodiversity that these habitats support, affecting the various species that depend on them for food, shelter, and breeding grounds.

Increased human activity can lead to pollution, overfishing, and obstruction of natural processes, further exacerbating the decline in species populations. Natural habitats are crucial for maintaining balanced ecosystems, and their reduction directly impacts the flora and fauna that rely on them, leading to a decline in biodiversity. Overall, the development of coastal regions typically focuses on economic benefits without fully considering the ecological consequences, resulting in significant long-term damage to these vital ecosystems.