The Fragile Balance of Biodiversity

Imagine walking along the shores of a saltwater lagoon, surrounded by vibrant wildlife—birds gliding across the sky, fish darting through clear waters, and lush plants swaying in the wind. This scene, found in Atanasovsko Lake near Burgas, Bulgaria, is a testament to the richness of biodiversity. But the beauty of such places is fragile, and with the growing threats of climate change, habitat destruction, and pollution, their future is uncertain.

Biodiversity—the variety of life in all its forms—underpins the health of ecosystems and provides essential services that sustain human life. Whether it’s the air we breathe, the water we drink, or the food we grow, biodiversity plays a critical role. However, human activities have placed immense pressure on natural ecosystems, leading to alarming declines in species populations and threatening the intricate balance that keeps our planet thriving.

One such place where the tension between human activity and nature is playing out is Atanasovsko Lake, a biodiversity hotspot that requires urgent protection.

Atanasovsko Lake: A Sanctuary for Wildlife

Atanasovsko Lake is a vital part of Bulgaria’s natural heritage. The lake’s mix of saltwater and freshwater habitats creates a unique ecosystem that supports a wide variety of life. It is home to over 300 species of birds, making it one of Europe’s most important sites for migratory birds, especially along the Via Pontica, one of the world’s key migratory bird flyways.

Among these species is the endangered Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus), a striking bird with a wingspan of over three metres. The lake provides a crucial breeding and feeding ground for these pelicans, who are particularly vulnerable to habitat loss and environmental degradation.

The delicate balance of life at Atanasovsko Lake extends beyond birds. The wetlands are a mosaic of rare plants, fish, and invertebrates that thrive in its saline environment. But as development in the Burgas region expands, the survival of these ecosystems is at risk. Pollution, poaching, and unsustainable land use threaten not only the wildlife but also the natural processes that maintain the lake’s biodiversity

The Dalmatian Pelican: A Conservation Icon

During my time working on the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation’s project “Let’s Donate for the Curly-headed Ruler of the Lakes,” which aimed to raise awareness about the Dalmatian Pelican, I witnessed firsthand the importance of this species to the local ecosystem. The pelican is not just a majestic bird; it plays a vital role in the food web of Atanasovsko Lake, helping to regulate fish populations and maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.

The Dalmatian Pelican has long been threatened by habitat loss, particularly due to the shrinking of wetland areas. My work involved promoting the importance of the pelican to a wider audience, highlighting how conservation of this species reflects broader efforts to protect the lake’s biodiversity. One of the key actions was engaging local communities and raising awareness about how their everyday activities, such as fishing and farming, can either help or harm the pelicans and the broader environment.

By building artificial nesting platforms and fostering local stewardship, we were able to provide safe spaces for the pelicans to breed and thrive. Over time, these efforts have contributed to a small but meaningful increase in the pelican population. However, the recovery of this species, like many others, remains fragile and requires ongoing conservation work.

Conserving Biodiversity: A Holistic Approach

Biodiversity conservation is not just about saving a single species—it’s about maintaining the integrity of entire ecosystems. When one species is lost, it disrupts the complex interactions that allow an ecosystem to function. For instance, the decline of bird populations at Atanasovsko Lake could affect everything from plant pollination to fish populations, ultimately impacting the local economy, which relies on these natural resources.

Through my work and observations at Atanasovsko Lake, it became clear that conserving biodiversity requires a multi-faceted approach:

• Habitat Protection: Key habitats like wetlands, salt marshes, and reed beds must be preserved and restored. Conservation efforts should focus on reducing pollution, preventing illegal activities like poaching, and ensuring that land use in the area is sustainable. This could involve collaborations between local authorities, businesses, and environmental organizations.
• Community Engagement: Conservation cannot succeed without the support of the local community. During my time in Burgas, I saw how involving residents—particularly fishermen and farmers—can lead to more sustainable practices. Educational campaigns, workshops, and public events can help raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and encourage people to take part in its protection.
• Sustainable Practices: Encouraging businesses to adopt more environmentally friendly methods is essential. For example, salt production around Atanasovsko Lake, which has been practised for centuries, can continue in harmony with conservation efforts by minimising its ecological footprint.
• Climate Action: The impact of climate change on biodiversity cannot be overstated. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events are putting additional strain on ecosystems like Atanasovsko Lake. Taking action to reduce carbon emissions and implement adaptive strategies for climate change is essential for the long-term survival of biodiversity

The Role of Wetlands in Biodiversity Conservation

Wetlands, like those found at Atanasovsko Lake, are among the most biologically diverse ecosystems on Earth. They serve as critical habitats for birds, amphibians, and plants, while also providing ecosystem services that benefit humans. These include water purification, flood control, and carbon sequestration—services that are often undervalued but irreplaceable.

However, wetlands are also among the most threatened ecosystems globally. According to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, over 35% of the world’s wetlands have disappeared in the last 50 years. This makes the preservation of places like Atanasovsko Lake all the more important. Protecting wetlands is not only about saving wildlife; it’s about safeguarding the future of our planet.

A Path Forward: What Can We Do?

The work being done at Atanasovsko Lake is just one example of how we can protect biodiversity. But conservation is not just the responsibility of scientists and environmental organizations—it’s something that each of us can contribute to:

• Support Conservation Efforts: Donate to or volunteer with organizations working to protect biodiversity. Your contribution can help fund important research, habitat restoration, and community outreach programs.
• Make Sustainable Choices: Whether it’s reducing your use of plastic, supporting eco-friendly businesses, or adopting a plant-based diet, the choices you make can have a positive impact on the environment.
• Get Involved Locally: Attend local conservation events, participate in citizen science projects, or join clean-up efforts in your community. The more we connect with nature, the more motivated we are to protect it.
• Advocate for Policy Change: Encourage local and national governments to prioritize biodiversity conservation in their policies. Stronger environmental protections are needed to prevent habitat destruction and ensure that ecosystems like Atanasovsko Lake continue to thrive.

Conclusion: A Shared Responsibility

Biodiversity conservation is not a task for the few—it’s a responsibility we all share. From the towering Dalmatian Pelican to the smallest insect, every species plays a role in the intricate web of life. By protecting biodiversity, we are safeguarding the very systems that support human life.

Atanasovsko Lake and the Dalmatian Pelican are just one piece of the global biodiversity puzzle. But their story reminds us that with dedicated effort, collaboration, and community engagement, we can make a difference. The future of our planet depends on it.

By Tsanko Kunchev, Bulgarian Team of Eco-mmunity activators