A Study on the Impact of Climate Changes on Sundarbans Ecosystem and Challenges for Wild Honey Entrepreneurship

Abstract

Located in the eastern Indian state of West Bengal, Sundarban is the world's largest mangrove forest, hosting a unique ecosystem that is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. This extensive mangrove biodiversity supports a thriving and indigenous apiculture industry. Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) such as wood, fish, crab, honey, and wax are the primary resources for a sustainable life for the local community. The Geographical Indication (GI) Tag has given the honey national and international recognition as Mouban, which can only be harvested from April to May. During this period, a migrating giant Honey Bee named Apis Dorsata reaches Sundarban, collecting nectar from mangrove flowers. This unique process yields a honey celebrated for its exceptional medicinal properties. These Honey Bees and seasonal flowers are crucial for honey production. Despite their significance, these factors' economic and ecological importance often go unrecognized. Researchers have comprehensively examined the effects of climate change on honey production in Sundarban.