Cumulative Effects Assessment of Impacts on a Lake Catchment Area

Multiple impacts (effects) on Inle lake ecosystems (Myanmar) examined by recording their strength and interaction in the lake catchment area. Numerous impacts affect Valued Ecosystem Components (VECs) over space and time thus resulting in cumulative impacts in environmental management. Cumulative nature of the impacts is a major issue. The present study proposes a conceptual framework for advancing Cumulative Effects Assessment (CEA). The study used a participatory appraisal technique...
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Multiple impacts (effects) on Inle lake ecosystems (Myanmar) examined by recording their strength and interaction in the lake catchment area. Numerous impacts affect Valued Ecosystem Components (VECs) over space and time thus resulting in cumulative impacts in environmental management. Cumulative nature of the impacts is a major issue. The present study proposes a conceptual framework for advancing Cumulative Effects Assessment (CEA). The study used a participatory appraisal technique for quantifying impacts and impact interactions. A combination of assessment tools at spatiotemporal scale used to establish the CEA framework by steps as follows: (i) scoping of actual and potential drivers of change and VECs, (ii) participatory appraisal and expert consultations ,(iii) quantifying impact strengths and interactions, (iv) field surveys (wetland state, area characteristics, etc) and water quality assessment by in-situ analyses and Remote Sensing, (v) data analyses (Rapid Impact Assessment - for impact significance, Loop Analysis - for impact interactions) and, (vi) formulate strategies for cumulative effects (impacts) control.