Environmental Pressures on Wild Animal Species in Libya and Their Implications for the Sustainability of Biodiversity

Abstract

Wildlife in Libya constitutes a fundamental component of maintaining ecological balance, yet it faces growing challenges due to environmental pressures stemming from human activities and climate change. This study examines the current state of these pressures and their impacts on biodiversity sustainability in the Libyan environment. The core research question addresses: What is the reality of environmental pressures on wildlife in Libya and their implications for biodiversity sustainability?

The study employed a descriptive-analytical methodology through the distribution of questionnaires to a sample of 105 participants. The sample was strategically distributed across three Libyan universities (Misurata, Al-Asmariya, and Bani Walid) along with experts working in the agriculture and livestock sector across the municipalities of Misurata, Zliten, and Bani Walid. Careful attention was given to balancing the sample between academic respondents (60 participants) and field practitioners (45 participants) to ensure comprehensive results.

Key findings revealed several important insights. Respondents demonstrated good awareness of the direct benefits of biodiversity, such as soil protection and pest control, but showed limited understanding of its role in overall ecological balance. Visible impacts of urban expansion, like loss of green spaces, received more attention than indirect consequences such as ecological interference. A notable contradiction emerged between recognition of environmental problems and distrust in official solutions, coupled with weak linkages between theoretical aspects of climate change and practical mitigation efforts.

Unplanned urban expansion emerged as the most significant threat to natural habitats, with environmental pressures like pollution and climate change interacting with socioeconomic factors to endanger biodiversity. The study confirmed a strong correlation between poaching practices and ecosystem degradation. While awareness of direct environmental risks was relatively high, understanding of the economic and social pillars of sustainability remained limited. Ultimately, the research clearly demonstrated the cumulative negative impact of combined human activities on natural habitats and their implications for biodiversity sustainability in Libya.

These findings highlight critical gaps between environmental awareness and actionable solutions, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches that address both ecological and socioeconomic dimensions of biodiversity conservation in Libya's unique context.