PJB-2024-136
ECO-EVOLUTIONARY DYNAMICS IN BREATHLESS CITIES: A SYNTHESIS OF URBAN AIR POLLUTION & ITS ECOLOGICAL CONSEQUENCES; A NARRATIVE REVIEW
Amna gul
Abstract
Eco-evolutionary is the combined study of evolution and ecology, acknowledging the mutual influences of population-level evolutionary changes and ecological processes. It focuses on how ecological interactions and environmental conditions can influence evolutionary adaptations, and how ecological dynamics can be impacted by evolutionary changes. "Eco-Evolutionary Dynamics in Breathless Cities," denotes an investigation into how urban environmental factors, specifically air pollution, impact organisms in urban ecosystems and their evolutionary responses over time, affecting their genetic composition and ecological interactions. In the framework of eco-evolutionary dynamics, urban air pollution is critical in determining species' adaptive responses in urban habitats. Pollution levels in cities can function as selecting pressures, impacting the genetic make-up and evolutionary paths of many species. Some plants and animals can evolve pollution-removal systems, but others cannot adjust their behaviour in response to environmental stressors. Long-term exposure to contaminants causes changes in species composition, altered trophic interactions, and changes in community architecture. Human health is also entwined in these consequences, as urban air pollution specifically smog which has been became a worldwide issue can impact not only wildlife but also the well-being urban population. Smog makes the sky brown or grey which reduces visibility and breathing in this environment causes many diseases in human beings such as serious heart & lung diseases. It is vital to develop urban planning and conservation strategies. Striking a balance between mitigating urban air pollution and preserving the adaptability of ecosystems is crucial for fostering resilient and sustainable urban environments in face of on-going environmental changes. By absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen, urban green spaces and tree planting projects can improve air quality. Furthermore, encouraging the use of indoor plants can help to clean air within buildings, minimizing the impact of air pollution and this can help to alleviate the condition to some extent.
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