Ecological Changes in the Zambezi River Basin

This book provides an
analysis of the ecological conditions and ecosystem goods and services
of the Zambezi River Basin (ZRB), the fourth largest river in Africa.
Various environmental and anthropogenic factors; inclusive of climate,
environmental flows, hydrology, morphology, pollution and land use
changes among others and their interactions are considered as drivers of
the river ecosystems. The impacts of these drivers on aquatic biota,
river ecological integrity, and the livelihoods of surrounding
communities are analysed within the socio-economic-policy context. The
book goes beyond the usual inventories and basic research by using the
comparative research method (CRM) in a trans-disciplinary manner. This
CRM analytical approach in this book seeks to interrogate the
differences or similarities in socio-economic systems, livelihoods,
ecological systems, ecosystem goods and services, their usage and
management under the seemingly different cultural, socio-economic
conditions expected across boarders that are within the ZRB. The
multidisciplinary approach also connects the typical ecological research
with social dimensions in a holistic manner. The book therefore,
provides empirical and research based evidence to support strategic
planning and policy development in the wake of ecological changes that
nations and indeed regions such as the ZRB are grappling with while
seeking to sustainably manage precious river systems.