Harbour Ecology: Environment and Development in Poole Harbour

Poole Harbour is a nationally and internationally protected area due to its ecological importance, but it is also classified as polluted and eutrophic. This book explores the circumstances behind this paradox, including its pre-historical and historical significance, ecology, fisheries, water quality, and sustainable development.

Format: Hardback
Length: 292 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2022
Publisher: Pelagic Publishing

Poole Harbour, a natural wonder recognized both nationally and internationally for its ecological significance, has unfortunately been labeled as polluted and eutrophic. This paradoxical designation highlights the plight of many estuaries, making Poole Harbour an ideal case study to unravel the complexities behind this apparent contradiction.

The result of a conference titled 'Spotlight on Poole Harbour: Environment & Economics' organized by the Poole Harbour Study Group, this comprehensive book comprises four main sections. Part I, 'Background,' offers a comprehensive introduction to the harbor, encompassing its pre-historical and historical importance for human communities, as well as a conceptual overview of its modern character and diverse uses.

Part II, 'Ecology,' delves into the diverse range of organisms inhabiting the harbor, from plankton to marine mammals. The subsequent sections focus on industries that rely on the biological and chemical 'ecological services' provided by the estuary:

Part III, 'Fisheries,' explores recreational and commercial fishing and aquaculture, examining their economic value and key shellfish species.

Part IV, 'Water Quality,' addresses the industries that require the harbor to remediate various effluents, as well as the environmental consequences and noteworthy efforts to mitigate such impacts.

Part V, 'Conclusion,' penned by the editors, examines certain general shortcomings of environmental legislation and regulation in the case of Poole Harbour.

A recurring theme throughout is the critical question of sustainable development in coastal and marine environments, making this study of broad relevance beyond its primary geographical focus.

Weight: 667g
Dimension: 244 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784274030