{"paper_id":"fb5c8bfd-be30-405c-baa2-27ae75074655","body_text":"Shared Environmental Challenges: A Comparative Analysis of Saline Lakes and Inland Seas' Decline. | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Shared Environmental Challenges: A Comparative Analysis of Saline Lakes and Inland Seas' Decline. Zafarjon Sultonov, Hari K. Pant This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900900/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract The study employs a comparative analyses using case study approach to identify the main drivers and factors for saline lakes and inland seas’ decline. Additionally the study investigates the potential outcomes and negative consequences and adverse effects associated with this issue. Furthermore, the research focuses on emergence of a new threat in the face of climate change and it’s implication for the decline of saline lakes and inland seas. The main objective of the study is to provide an overview of the current situations and potential scenarios and provide solutions in the context of changing climatic conditions which is very crucial to efficiently managing the issue of saline lakes and inland seas’ decline across the globe. World saline lake decline Climate change Inland seas Saline lakes Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 1. Introduction The degradation and shrinking of lakes and inland seas, associated with water scarcity, pose significant environmental challenges in the early 21st century. These issues are influenced by a combination of human activities and natural climate variability (Kostianoy et al., 2004 ). Inland waters, such as lakes and rivers, are vital for human uses and support diverse ecosystems. However, they are under threat from water diversion, pollution, invasive species, and climate change (Sivakumar, 2011 ). The expansion of irrigated agriculture in water-limited regions is causing significant shrinkage of lakes worldwide. Currently, 11% of global lake area has already been lost due to increased water consumption for irrigation. This trend is expected to continue, with an anticipated additional 60–130% increase in the loss of endorheic lakes. The unsustainable water demand from irrigation poses a serious threat to water quality, ecosystems, and the overall sustainability of these lakes (Wine and Laronne, 2020 ). Salt lakes, important inland aquatic ecosystems, are significantly impacted by pollution. Human activities such as mining, catchment activities, and pollution from various sources pose a threat to the natural character and biodiversity of salt lakes. The adverse effects of pollution on salt lakes are widespread and degrade their ecological values (Williams, 2002 ). Climate change poses a significant threat to global lake ecosystems, impacting various physical variables. Changes in ice cover and surface temperature, driven by climate change, affect lake mixing patterns and evaporation rates. Without sufficient precipitation or inflow, increased evaporation can lead to decreased lake levels and surface water extent. These changes have profound implications for lake ecosystems, altering water quantity, quality, food availability, recreational activities, and transportation (Woolway et al., 2020 ). 2. Methodology The study employs a comparative analyses approach combined with case study of each saline lakes and inland seas separately to analyses the shrinking of the lakes. The methodology consist of several key steps including case study section of each saline lake and inland sea separately, comparative analyses, identification of driving factors, potential outcomes, negative impacts and consequences. To insure comparative analyses several saline lakes and inland seas were selected that relatively facing the issue of shrinking over the past decades. The selected saline lakes and inland seas are located in different parts of the world, surrounded by different ecosystem and environments. The targeted saline lakes are located in economically different regions ranging from undeveloped to developed counties. Some of them are in one country; others are between two countries or are a transboundary issues. Relevant data was selected about each targeted saline lake and inland sea. Data collection included information about geographical location of each saline lakes and inland seas, historical data including original surface and latest surface. The main drivers and factors of decline for each saline lake and inland sea were identified and potential outcomes, impacts and negative consequences were assessed. The main source of the data is scientific literature. Comparative analyses were conducted to find similarities and differences among the driving factors, impacts and negative consequences. Based on the conducted analyses primarily, secondary and additional factors for emergence of the issue were identified and assessed. Consequently the potential negative outcomes and consequences were recognized. However, the deployed methodology has limitation due to the fact the saline lakes and inland seas have unique characteristics and vary in terms of size, depth and process of decline. Accordingly, their unique characteristic in terms of political and environmental surroundings, social economic development, resources, expertise has significant impact on restoration efforts, mitigation strategies and addressing the issue. In addition the negative impact and consequences also may vary depending on geographical location, ecosystem surroundings. Based on the conducted comparative analyses the potential outcomes are highlighted and the possible solutions and recommendation are provided. In addition, some best practices and lessons are highlighted for preserving engendered saline lakes and inland seas worldwide. Therefore to address the issue of saline lakes and inland seas’ decline a set of recommendations are provided covering a four level of measures including effective managements, accurate restoration and mitigation efforts, and additional solutions. 3. Case Study of Each Saline Lake and Inland Sea a. Aral Sea : The Aral Sea symbolizes as a human-induced environmental devastation is located in Central Asia, between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Its watershed is mainly shared by six nations: Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan. In 1960, the Aral Sea had a surface area of 67,499 km² however, as of the latest available data, the surface area of the Aral Sea has significantly diminished, reaching approximately 6,990 km² (Micklin, 2016 ). Main Drivers: The main drivers behind the Aral Sea's challenges include both natural factors and human activities. Human activities, such as extensive irrigation practices diverting water from the rivers that feed the sea, and the construction of dams, have contributed to its water depletion. Since 1960, the Aral Sea has been shrinking due to poor water management practices and over-extraction of water for irrigation purposes from the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers, along with the construction of artificial dams (Micklin, 2007 ; Yang et al., 2020). The amount of land being irrigated in the Aral Sea basin has grown from 5.2 million hectares in 1960 to 9.61 million hectares by 2008, making the area one of the most heavily irrigated regions on the planet (Qadir et al., 2009). Natural factors include its geographical location in an arid region with limited freshwater inflows. However, according Su et al. ( 2021 ) climate change has had a positive effect on the water supply to the Aral Sea. But, the sea continues to shrink primarily due to the high water consumption in agriculture, which has persisted since the Soviet era. Urbanization and increased water demand further exacerbate this issue, resulting in insufficient water inflow to maintain the existing water surface (Su et al., 2021 ). Potential outcomes: The Aral Sea has experienced significant water scarcity, resulting in its dramatic shrinkage over the years. This has led to the deterioration of water quality, increased salinity, and loss of aquatic habitats. Therefore, the decreased water level and increased salinity caused the death of numerous fish species, endangering the survival of remaining marine life and leading to the collapse of the fishing industry. This ecological disruption had significant socioeconomic consequences, resulting in the loss of livelihoods for many fishermen and a decline in the local economy (Ermakhanov et al., 2012 ). The shrinking of the Aral Sea has led to increased pollution from irrigation runoff carrying salts, fertilizers, and toxic substances, contaminating the soil and water. Dust storms have also emerged and the environment by carrying dry sediment and salt, causing health issues, soil erosion, and desertification (Orlovsky et al., 2004 ). The decline of the Aral Sea had a detrimental impact on biodiversity and surrounding ecosystem led to the loss of fisheries. Ecological degradation and loss of fish industry had negative consequences the social and economic life of the surrounding communities (Roll et al., 2003 ). b. Lake Chad : The Lake Chad basin is home to a population of nearly 30 million people across four riparian countries: Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria. However, the shrinkage of Lake Chad has been labeled an ecological catastrophe. Over time, the lake has experienced significant reduction in water storage, leading to a drastic decrease in its surface area. From the 1960s to 2005, the lake's surface area declined from approximately 25,000 km² to just 1,350 km² (Yunana et al., 2017 ). Main Drivers: The shrinkage of Lake Chad is primarily attributed to human activities, with a 66% decline in stream flow, and climate variability. Increased water withdrawals and human interventions have significantly contributed to the lake's shrinkage, while rising temperatures and declining precipitation have worsened the situation (Mahmood and Jia, 2019 ). Human activities, such as population displacement and intensive land use along the lake's shores, have increased the demand for water resources. Meanwhile, natural factors, including decreased rainfall, severe droughts, and increased seasonal level variation, have further exacerbated the shrinkage (Lemoalle, 2004 ). Lake Chad which is one of the largest in Africa drastically reduced in size due to anthropogenic factors including over-exploitation of natural resources and increased water demand due to population growth and climate change impacts (Ekperusi and Ekperusi, 2021 ). Potential outcomes: Lake Chad with its significant shrinkage by 90% over the past 40 years has contributed to the deepening poverty and insecurity in the region. The decline in the lake's water level has impacted fishing livelihoods, irrigation farming, and agricultural activities, leading to economic decline. This, in turn, has created a fertile ground for the rise of Boko Haram and increased criminal activities (Nwanegbo et al., 2019 ). Lake Chad's environmental degradation has a profound impact on livelihoods and conflicts within its basin. The scarcity of resources caused by degradation disrupts economic activities and interacts with social variables, contributing to conflicts in the region. The shrinking of Lake Chad is a pressing concern, especially for Nigeria, with the North-Eastern region bearing the brunt of its consequences (Onuoha, 2008 ). The shrinkage of Lake Chad does have an impact on local climate change. A huge reduction in the size of the lake has affects precipitation patterns resulting in climate change in the region (Zhao et al., 2022 ). These findings support the credibility of the \"boomerang effect\" concept, which suggests that the shrinkage of lakes can have feedback effects on climate change. c. Lake Urmia : Lake Urmia is located in northwestern Iran in the province of West Azerbaijan, near the border with Turkey. Lake Urmia, a highly endangered ecosystem, has experienced a drastic decline, with its area decreasing by approximately 88% in recent decades (AghaKouchak et al., 2015). Its natural area was 4630 km2 but as of September 2022, its area shrank to 1427 km2 which comprises only 31% its original area (Wurtsbaugh and Sima, 2022 ). Main Drivers: The primary drivers of Lake Urmia's challenges are both natural and human-induced. Human interventions, particularly agricultural and irrigation expansions stand as the key driving force behind the desiccation of Lake Urmia. Atmospheric-climatic changes alone cannot fully account for the substantial decline in water levels. The increase in agricultural crop transpiration, fueled by human-induced vegetation cover expansion, reduces runoff and intensifies the water level decline (Khazaei et al., 2019 ). Human influence, particularly agricultural water extraction, contributes to the lake's vulnerability while climate change plays a significant role in the declining volume of Lake Urmia, with variations in climatic conditions being the primary driver (Schulz et al., 2020 ). However, Urmia Lake, the world's second-largest saline lake in Iran, is facing a critical situation due to the construction of more than fifty dams. These dams have significantly reduced the inflow of water into the lake, contributing to its rapid decline (Soudi et al., 2017 ; Garousi et al., 2013 ). Potential outcomes: Lake Urmia faces similar environmental challenges, including water scarcity, reduced water levels, and increased salinity. These factors have led to the loss of wetlands, degradation of ecosystems, and threats to biodiversity. The declining water level of Lake Urmia poses a severe impact and threat. This reduction, spanning over two decades, has significant consequences for the environment and human well-being. The ecological crisis of Lake Urmia has significant implications for up to 76 million people living in the region (Opp et al., 2017; Garousi et al., 2013 ). The shrinking lake threatens the regional ecosystem, leading to potential collapse and migration of the local population. Additionally, it results in the release of salty winds in neighboring provinces, negatively affecting human health. The destruction of Lake Urmia National Park further exacerbates the situation (Nhu et al., 2020 ). d. Great Salt Lake : The Great Salt Lake is located in Utah, Idaho, USA. Its natural area was 4980 km2 but as of 4 September 2022, its area shrank to 2303 km2 which comprises only 46% its original area (Wurtsbaugh and Sima, 2022 ). The Great Salt Lake is a vital keystone ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere, providing economic benefits, habitat for migratory birds, and minerals for industries (Abbott et al., 2023 ). Main Drivers: The main drivers impacting the Great Salt Lake are consumptive water uses and climate fluctuations. Consumptive water uses consistently decrease the lake's water supply, resulting in long-term reductions in levels, volume, and increased salinity. However, climate fluctuations, including flooding and drought cycles, lead to varying water levels. (Wurtsbaugh et al., 2016 ). Climate change has only a minor effect on the Great Salt Lake decline with a 1.4°C rise in air temperature potentially causing only a small decrease in lake level. However, long-term changes in GSL are mainly caused by human induced factors particularly through increased consumption of water for irrigated agriculture (Wine et al., 2019 ). Droughts and wet cycles have made the lake's water level, size, and saltiness change a lot, making it hard to see the human impacts. However, research has revealed that consumptive water uses in the watershed, primarily driven by agriculture, cities, solar ponds, and other activities, have depleted inflows by approximately 39%. Climate change, at present, has not noticeably influenced the lake level, although it remains a concern for the future (Null and Wurtsbaugh, 2020 ). Potential outcomes: Both human and nature drivers have resulted in decreased water levels, reduced volume, increased salinity, and exposure of the lake bed. Additionally, the desiccation of certain areas has led to habitat loss for waterfowl and shorebirds. Industries, such as marinas and mineral extraction, have been negatively affected, and wind-blown dust has increased. (Wurtsbaugh et al., 2016 ). Excessive water use is causing significant damage to the lake. It has experienced a drastic decrease in water level and surface area, leading to habitat loss, toxic dust exposure, and disruption of food webs. The lake's decline has accelerated since 2020, and if this trend continues, it could vanish within five years. The consequences of losing the lake are underestimated, as it would result in environmental, health, and economic crises. (Abbott et al., 2023 ). e. Dead Sea : The Dead Sea is located in the Middle East, bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel and Palestine to the west. The Dead Sea is a hypersaline lake with a salinity of 277g/kg currently declining by 1m/year (Lensky et al., 2005 ). Therefore according Qdais, ( 2008 ) surface area of Dead Sea has diminished from 940km2 in the 1960s to 637km2 today (Qdais, 2008 ). Main Drivers: the shrinking of the Dead Sea is primarily driven by human activities such as the diversion of water from the Jordan River for agricultural and industrial use, which has reduced the inflow of freshwater into the lake (Gertman and Hecht, 2002 ). The Dead Sea has experienced fluctuations in water level due to climatic changes. However, recent lowering of the lake is mainly attributed to upstream freshwater diversion projects and mineral extraction industries (Abu Ghazleh et al., 2011). The Dead Sea's decline has been significantly affected by human activity causing drastic reduction of runoff. The surface level of the Dead Sea has been lowered at an average rate of about 60 cm/year since 1977 but it reached 60 cm/year in 1998–2000, resulting in changes in salinity and stability (Gertman and Hecht, 2002 ). Potential outcomes: The decline in water level poses environmental hazards and threatens the unique natural and historical resource of the Dead Sea (Abu Ghazleh, et al., 2011). Dead Sea coastal area is experiencing a catastrophic collapse with the sudden appearance of hundreds of sinkholes. Multidisciplinary research since 1999 suggests that the sinkholes are formed by the dissolution of a thick salt layer due to undersaturated groundwater, which migrates eastward as the Dead Sea declines. The sinkholes are also associated with land subsidence and formation along buried faults, indicating the destabilization of underground cavities. The declining Dead Sea level plays a significant role in the formation of these sinkholes, making it a severe threat to the region's future (Abelson et al., 2006 ). f. Salton Sea : The Salton Sea, located in the southeastern Sonoran desert of California, USA. It is California's largest inland body of water, covers an area of 980 km2 and has a volume of 7.3 million acre-feet. It stretches 58 km in length and is 14–22 km wide, with a maximum depth of 15 m (Carmichael and Li, 2006 ). However, under the influence of human factors the Salton Sea area has declined to 381 km2 (Reise et al., 2013). The Salton Sea serves as a significant habitat for various waterbirds, including wintering, migratory, and breeding species. It plays a vital role in the Pacific Flyway and hosts thousands of waterbirds, indicating its crucial importance for these avian populations (Shuford et al., 2002 ). Main Drivers: The main drivers of the Salton Sea's challenges are primarily human-induced including reduced water inflows due to agricultural practices and urban development. The lake's water resources are impacted by decreased freshwater inputs and increased agricultural runoff, leading to water quality issues and ecosystem degradation (Doede and DeGuzman, ( 2020 ). Colorado River has affected the Salton Sea's fate for a long time but currently human activities caused a crises for the sea. However the state’s effort to restore it was not sufficient and there is a need to better cooperate and enrolment of private companies to protect wildlife and human health. The study suggests different funding methods and taking land from uncooperative landowners to achieve effective restoration (Hughes, 2020 ). Potential outcomes: The Salton Sea encounters challenges such as water quality degradation, salinity increase, and declining ecosystem health (Doede and DeGuzman, ( 2020 ). Salton Sea ecosystem degradation and loss of its wetland as the important habitat to bird in North America is very concerning. The sea is facing significant problems with increasing salinity, contaminants, disease outbreaks, and large bird die-offs (Shuford et al., 2002 ). The Salton Sea faces poor air quality with an expanding dry lakebed becoming a potential source of dust. In a study conducted in 2017-18, dust deposits were collected monthly at five sites in the basin and analyzed for elemental and solubleanion content. Using the Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) method, the data revealed seven distinct dust sources with unique compositional markers: playa, colorado alluvium, local alluvium, agricultural burning, sea spray, anthropogenic trace metals, and anthropogenic copper, except for local alluvium, all sources are influenced by current or historic anthropogenic activities (Frie et al., 2019 ). g. Lake Poopo : The Lake Poopo a salt lake located in Oruro, Altiplano, Bolivia. The Lake Poopo’s largest extent was registered as 3302 km² in 1986 but under both human and nature factors the lake completely disappeared in 2015 (Satgé et al., 2017 ). Main Drivers: The main drivers of Lake Poopo crises were both human and nature factors. Satgé et al., ( 2017 ) used a remote sensing data to monitor the fluctuation of Lake Poopo over the period of last 26 years. The study revealed that three major droughts were observed but recent disappearance of the lake was influenced both by natural and human factors. The human factors included expansion of quinoa farming, exploitation of mining, increasing population water consumption while natural factors include global warming, rising temperature and increase in evapotranspiration (Satgé et al., 2017 ). Satgé et al., ( 2019 ) used the remote sensing product to study the dynamics of agricultural land expansion, regional climatic variability, vegetation, and water resources. The study analyzed the potential role of the hydrological drought events and human activities in causing water scarcity in Altiplano region. It revealed that quinoa crop, potatoes and alfalfa expansion, and mining activity in the region significantly contributed in depletion of water resources. In addition, past hydrological droughts played crucial role in decreasing of total water storage in the region (Satgé et al., 2019 ). Potential outcomes: The issue of Lake Poopo represents not only loss of a single body of water but destruction of entire ecosystem and biodiversity. Up to 200 species of fish, birds, reptiles and mammals are at risk of being lost forever. The lake was a crucial location for three distinct species of flamingo and other migratory birds (Farthing, 2017 ). The decline of Lake Poopo and the associated water scarcity issue has graver implications for vulnerable populations in the region including rural, indigenous, poor, and female populations. The water scarcity caused environmental migration where the people mostly men leave the area in search of livelihood and better conditions. However situation is worse with women left behind who cope with water scarcity as water is an important element for their household activities (Meeks, 2018 ). 4. Discussions A comparative analysis of the Aral Sea, Lake Chad, Lake Urmia, the Great Salt Lake, Dead Sea, the Salton Sea and Lake Poopo is very crucial, as it provides a valuable insight into common challenges and potential solutions in addressing the issue related with their decline. The analysis is complicated due to the fact that these saline lakes and inland seas are located in different geographical regions, different continents surrounded by different ecosystems. In addition the given salt lakes and inland seas have unique characteristics which vary in terms of size, depth and process of decline. Therefore, if some lakes are facing the issue of drying up but some others are already at risk of entirely disappearance or disappeared forever with no chance of restoring them again. Table 1 Comparison between the original area and the recent areas of the saline lakes and inland seas Aral Sea Lake Chad Lake Urmia Grate Salt Lake Dead Sea Salton Sea Lake Poopo Original size km² 67,499 25,000 4,630 4,980 940 980 3,302 Latest size km² 6,990 1,350 1,427 2,303 637 381 0 Source: Based on the data from Wurtsbaugh and Sima ( 2022 ), Satgé et al. ( 2017 ), Yunana et al. ( 2017 ), Micklin ( 2016 ), Reise et al. (2013), Qdais ( 2008 ), Carmichael and Li ( 2006 ) Thus, the percentage of drained area for each saline lakes and inland seas according the given data is as follows: Table 2 Percentage of drained area for each saline lakes and inland seas Aral Sea 89.62% Lake Chad 94.54% Lake Urmia 69.19% Great Salt Lake 53.81% Dead Sea 32.45% Salton Sea 61.73% Lake Poopo 100% According to the decline percentages of the given saline lakes and inland seas, we observe that Aral Sea, Lake Chad, Lake Urmia, and Salton Sea are critically endangered. However, the disappearance of Lake Poopo reveals the severity of the issue and highlights that without necessary restoration and mitigation efforts, the saline lakes and inland seas may completely disappear, disrupting the ecosystem and significantly impacting surrounding communities. Therefore, comparative analysis of these saline lakes and inland seas allows us to identify trends, communalities, potential consequences and challenges related with specific stage of shrinking. This helps stakeholders understand the problem factors, better predict the potential outcomes, exchange knowledge and apply the best practices. This is very important in implementing appropriate restoration and mitigation measures. 5. Driving Factors Contributing to the Issue Therefore, as a result of the comparative analysis shown in Table 2 , it became clear that the main causes of the decline of all saline lakes and inland seas primarily are human induced factors. This includes excessive use of water resources for irrigation purposes, construction of dams, mineral extraction, and mining. We also observe deviation of water sources, increased demand for water resources due to population growth and urbanization. Additionally, there are anthropogenic factors like pollution which significantly contributed to the deterioration of water quality in the given saline lakes and inland seas. Pollution is usually caused by unsustainable agricultural practices, ineffective water management and mining extractions. Table 3 Overview of nature and human factors affecting the decline of lakes Aral Sea Lake Chad Lake Urmia Grate Salt Lake Dead Sea Salton Sea Lake Poopo -Irrigation -Building dams -Pollution -Irrigation -Pollution -Climate change -Drought -Irrigation -Building dams -Climate change -Irrigation -Drought -Irrigation -Mineral extraction -Irrigation -Urbanization -Irrigation -Mining -Drought A second cause of drying up of saline lakes and inland seas are natural factors particularly regular drought and climate change in the form of increased temperatures, variability in weather conditions, and fluctuations in precipitation patterns. Natural factors are usually the secondary factors which has contributed to deepening of the issue and accelerated the process of shrinking. Nevertheless, climate change has had different affects depending on the geographical location, size and process of decline of the lakes. Therefore, the impact of climate change on decline of saline lakes and inland seas was different resulting in greater or lesser depending on the specific case. However, in general, the direct effect of climate change on the drying of saline lakes and inland seas as the second main factor is a very negative sign, considering the long term nature of climate change and the possibility of deepening and exacerbating in the future. Therefore, over time and under the influence of climate change, the future of saline lakes and inland seas is in a great risk. 6. Potential Outcomes and Consequences Table 4 shows negative consequences resulting from shrinking of saline lakes and inland seas. Like the driving factors for the emergence of the problem of decline of saline lakes and inland seas, their negative consequences are also vary depending on their size, location and state of decline. Table 4 The negative consequences resulting from shrinking of saline lakes and inland seas Aral Sea Lake Chad Lake Urmia Grate Salt Lake Dead Sea Salton Sea Lake Poopo -Decertification -Health issues -Dust storms -Increased salinity -Habitat loss -Contamination -Fishery loss -Conflict -Poverty -Displacement -Biodiversity loss -Climate change -Fishery loss -Biodiversity loss -Economic decline -Increased salinity -Health issues -Migratory birds impact -Mineral extraction affects -Increased salinity -Contamination -Appearance of sinkholes -Tourism impact -Infrastructure impact -Bird die-offs -Increased salinity -Contamination -Dust storms -Water scarcity -Migration -Poverty -Complete loss of ecosystem According the comparative analyses conducted in Table 4 in some saline lakes and inland seas the decline caused ecosystem and biodiversity disruption, leading to environmental degradation and negative socio-economic consequences while in other cases, the issue has had far reaching impacts leading to deterioration of health of surrounding population and even resulting in conflict. We also observe the impact on poverty, displacement of communities, disruption of mineral extractions, threatening wildlife including migratory birds and the occurrence of sinkholes and distraction of settlements and tourism infrastructure. Furthermore, decline of salt lakes and inland seas result in increased salinity and contamination. Typically, contamination occurs due to agricultural pollution caused by ineffective water management, unsustainable agricultural practices, and industrialization, including mining extractions. These pollutants reach the saline lakes and inland seas, resulting in deteriorated water quality and contamination. Besides, we observe that decline of salt lakes and inland seas may affect the local climatic variabilities. Based on the comparative analyses of the targeted saline lakes and inland seas, Fig. 2 shows the full picture of process of shrinkage of salt lakes and inland seas under the combination of human and nature induced factors which led to significant impacts and negative consequences. However, it is important to note that decline of saline lakes and inland seas is relatively a new phenomenon and there is a knowledge gap in understanding the full impacts and implication associated with this issue. In particular the impact of shrinking salt lakes and inland seas and its social economic consequences especially implications on food security, health, migration, poverty, and conflict issues have not been extensively studied. In addition, decline of saline lakes and inland seas can have adverse effect triggering local climate change, pollution and negatively impacting irrigation and posing challenges for agricultural sustainability. 7. Learning from Best Practices and Lessons Learning lessons from restoration of the Aral Sea construction of the Kokaral Dam in Kazakhstan which played a significant role is very important. Completed in 2005, this dike separated the northern Aral Sea also known as the Small Aral Sea from the southern Aral Sea, resulting in partial restoration of the ecosystem in the northern Aral Sea. The dike allowed for the controlled flow of the water into the northern Aral Sea, as a result water levels increased, leading to reduced salt levels and improved overall water quality (Micklin, 2016 ). The Small Aral Sea restoration effort serves as a valuable lesson not only for restoring the remaining parts of the Aral Sea but addressing similar ecological challenges in other parts of the world particularly in the given lakes. One of the exemplary practices that can be learned from is the restoration efforts at the Salton Sea in the United States. The Salton Sea has experienced environmental degradation, including declining water quality, and habitat loss, which has adversely affected its surrounding ecosystems. Positive developments at the Salton Sea include the establishment of pilot projects that have demonstrated the potential benefits of restoration efforts. One such project is the U.S. Geological Survey's Salton Sea Science Office, which is currently operating and monitoring a 40-hectare pilot project of shallow habitat on the southeast end of the Sea. This project has successfully attracted a diverse range of bird species, with over 135 different species recorded at the site. The presence of these birds indicates that the habitat restoration efforts are providing valuable resources and support for the avian population (Cohen, 2019 ). The successful outcome of Mono Lake crises in California, USA which shared a similarity with the studied lakes in terms of human-induced water diversion achieved through public debate and curtailment of diversions demonstrates the power of community engagement and environmental activism in protecting and preserving valuable ecosystems. The lesson of Mono Lake crises is considered a valuable lesson for restoring and preserving the endangered lakes worldwide (Williams, 2002 ). 8. Policy Recommendations The decline of saline lakes and inland seas is a very complicated issue and requires a multilevel approach solution. However the negative impact and consequences of shrinking lakes is not fully understood yet. Based on the comparative analysis to address the shared environmental challenges in the studied saline lakes and inland seas, policy recommendations and strategies are proposed. Therefore, to address the complex issue of saline lakes and inland seas’ decline, we suggest deploying four levels of efforts including effective management, restoration efforts, mitigation strategies and additional solutions (Table 5 ). By combining and integrating these four levels we can address the complex challenge of shrinking lakes in better and more effective way. In addition, each level has multiple strategies and practices that should be deployed in combined and integrated manner. Table 5 Four level approach solution to tackle the issue of saline lakes and inland seas’ decline Water Management and Agricultural Practices Ecological Restoration Mitigation and Awareness Sustainable Development and Resource Management -Drip irrigation -Crop rotation -Water reuse -Water-saving irrigation -Drought-resistant crops -Water pollution control -River flow regulation -Infrastructure upgrades -Transboundary cooperation -Reforestation -Ecosystem rehabilitation -Desalinization -Dyke construction -Fish reintroduction -Protected areas -Biodiversity restoration -Soil conservation -Desertification control -Water purification -International funding -Public awareness -Adaptation measures -Accurate prediction -Better monitoring -Comprehensive research -Conservation campaigns -Exchange knowledge -Farmer training -International cooperation -Utilization of renewable energy -Socio-economic development -Engage communities -Ecotourism development -Promoting alternative livelihood -Sustainable urban planning -Sustainable fishery -Land use management -Disaster risk reduction -Sustainable waste management -Environmental education While a proposed four level solution structure which presented in this study provides a framework it need to be noted that the specific approach within each level can be adapted and modified based on the unique characteristic of a specific lake. Therefore this knowledge serves as a foundation for identifying appropriate solutions and interventions. 9. Conclusion In conclusion the decline of the saline lakes and inland seas is a pressing environmental issue which has far reaching negative consequences. It became obvious that, saline lakes and inland seas’ decline caused ecosystem and biodiversity disruption, leading to environmental degradation and economic decline while in other cases; the issue has had far reaching impacts leading to deterioration of health of surrounding population and even resulting in conflict. It has been observed that the impact includes poverty, displacement of communities, threatening wildlife, the occurrence of sinkholes and distraction of tourism infrastructure. The comparative analyses of saline lakes and inland seas’ decline have revealed the complexity of the issue and far reaching of its negative impacts and consequences. The analyses revealed that the decline of saline lakes and inland seas is influenced by combination of primarily human and then nature factors. The human induced factors include the excessive use of water resources for irrigation purposes, construction of dams, deviation of water sources, urbanization and pollution while nature induced factors include climate change such as high temperature, rainfall patterns fluctuation, less evaporation and drought. However for effectively addressing this issue it became obvious that a combined and integrated approach is necessary. Our study highlights the importance of deploying a four level solutions including effective management, restoration efforts, mitigation strategies and additional solutions. These layers have multiple policies and practices that should be implemented in coordinated and integrated manner. It is evident, that a collaborative efforts involving stakeholders from varies parties including engaging local community, government, regional corporation internarial collaboration, international organizations and scientific institution is necessary. Furthermore, we acknowledge that each lake is unique in terms of exceptional characteristic in terms of political and environmental surroundings, geographical location, and ecosystem surroundings, social economic development, available resources and used expertise. These characteristics also significantly can impact on restoration efforts, mitigation strategies and addressing the issue for a specific saline lakes and inland seas. Subsequently, the study identified the emerging challenges faced particularly the threat of climate change, adverse effects of the saline lakes and inland seas’ decline. Therefore by utilizing a best practice, exchange knowledge, fostering partnership, innovative solutions we can effectively tackle this issue around the world and insure the preservation, sustainable and healthier future of the endangered saline lakes and inland seas. Declarations Acknowledgements The authors would like to acknowledge the Fulbright Scholarship awarded to Z. Sultonov by the US Department of State to work with H.K. Pant at Lehman College, the City University of New York. Authors' Contributions The contributions of each author are as follows: The initial draft of the manuscript was written by Z. Sultonov. H.K. Pant provided valuable feedback on earlier versions and contributed to manuscript writing and revision. Both authors have thoroughly reviewed and approved the final manuscript. Funding No specific funding was received for this research. The study was conducted without any external financial support, and there was no involvement of any funding organization in the manuscript preparation. Availability of data and materials The data and materials used in this review paper are sourced from publicly available scientific literature, research databases, and reputable online repositories. The references and sources cited in the manuscript provide the necessary information to access and retrieve the original data and materials. Consent to participate: Both participants involved in this study gave their informed consent to participate, given that they are aware of the study's objectives, procedures, risks, and potential benefits. Consent to Publish: Both authors of this manuscript have given consent for this manuscript to be published. They acknowledge and agree that the manuscript will be publicly available and support the dissemination of the information presented. Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests regarding this research. References Abbott BW, Baxter BK, Busche K, de Freitas L, Frie R, Gomez T (2023) Emergency measures needed to rescue Great Salt Lake from ongoing collapse Abelson M, Yechieli Y, Crouvi O, Baer G, Wachs D, Bein A, Shtivelman V (2006) Evolution of the Dead Sea sinkholes. Carmichael WW, Li R (2006) Cyanobacteria toxins in the Salton Sea. Saline Syst 2(1):1–13 Cohen MJ (2019) Past and future of the Salton Sea Doede AL, DeGuzman PB (2020) The disappearing lake: A historical analysis of drought and the Salton Sea in the context of the GeoHealth Framework. GeoHealth, 4(9), e2020GH000271. Ekperusi AO, Ekperusi OH (2021) Natural resources depletion, pollution and restoration of lake chad. Int J Marit Interdiscip Res, 2 Ermakhanov ZK, Plotnikov IS, Aladin NV, Micklin P (2012) Changes in the Aral Sea ichthyofauna and fishery during the period of ecological crisis. Lakes & Reservoirs: Research & Management, 17(1), 3–9 Farthing L (2017) Bolivia’s disappearing lake. Earth Island Journal. https://www.earthisland.org/journal/index . php/articles/entry/bolivias_disappearing_lake Frie AL, Garrison AC, Schaefer MV, Bates SM, Botthoff J, Maltz M, Bahreini R (2019) Dust sources in the Salton Sea basin: a clear case of an anthropogenically impacted dust budget. Environ Sci Technol 53(16):9378–9388 Garousi V, Najafi A, Samadi A, Rasouli K, Khanaliloo B (2013) Environmental crisis in Lake Urmia, Iran: a systematic review of causes, negative consequences and possible solutions. Proceedings of the 6th International Perspective on Water Resources & the Environment (IPWE) Izmir, Turkey Gertman I, Hecht A (2002) The Dead Sea hydrography from 1992 to 2000. J Mar Syst 35(3–4):169–181 Gertman I, Hecht A (2002) The Dead Sea hydrography from 1992 to 2000. J Mar Syst 35(3–4):169–181 Hughes B (2020) Turning Off the Tap: Will California Let the Salton Sea Go Down the Drain? Calif Western Law Rev 56(1):17 Khazaei B, Khatami S, Alemohammad SH, Rashidi L, Wu C, Madani K, Aghakouchak A (2019) Climatic or regionally induced by humans? Tracing hydro-climatic and land-use changes to better understand the Lake Urmia tragedy. J Hydrol 569:203–217 Kostianoy AG, Zavialov PO, Lebedev SA (2004) What do we know about dead, dying and endangered lakes and seas? Dying and Dead Seas Climatic Versus Anthropic Causes. Springer Netherlands, pp 1–48 Lemoalle J (2004) Lake Chad: a changing environment. Dying and Dead Seas Climatic Versus Anthropic Causes. Springer Netherlands, pp 321–339 Lensky NG, Dvorkin Y, Lyakhovsky V, Gertman I, Gavrieli I (2005) Water, salt, and energy balances of the Dead Sea. Water Resour Res, 41(12) Mahmood R, Jia S (2019) Assessment of hydro-climatic trends and causes of dramatically declining stream flow to Lake Chad, Africa, using a hydrological approach. Sci Total Environ 675:122–140 Meeks ST (2018) Water, Women, and Migration: Examining the Interconnections Between Water Scarcity. Environmental Migration, and Women in Bolivia Micklin P (2007) The Aral sea disaster. Annu Rev Earth Planet Sci 35(1):47–72 Micklin P (2016) The future Aral Sea: hope and despair. Environ Earth Sci 75:844. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12665-016-5614-5 Nhu VH, Mohammadi A, Shahabi H, Shirzadi A, Al-Ansari N, Ahmad BB, Nguyen H (2020) Monitoring and assessment of water level fluctuations of the Lake Urmia and its environmental consequences using multitemporal Landsat 7 ETM + images. Int J Environ Res Public Health 17(12):4210 Null SE, Wurtsbaugh WA (2020) Water development, consumptive water uses, and Great Salt Lake. Great Salt Lake biology: A terminal Lake in a time of change, 1–21 Nwanegbo CJ, Umara I, Ali B (2019) POVERTY AND INSECURITY IN THE LAKE CHAD REGION. South East Political Science Review, 1(1) Onuoha FC (2008) Environmental degradation, livelihood and conflicts: A focus on the implications of the diminishing water resources of Lake Chad for north-eastern Nigeria. Afr J Confl resolution 8(2):35–61 Orlovsky L, Tolkacheva G, Orlovsky N, Mamedov B (2004) Dust storms as a factor of atmospheric air pollution in the Aral Sea basin. WIT Transactions on Ecology and the Environment, p 74 Qadir M, Noble AD, Qureshi AS, Gupta RK, Yuldashev T, Karimov A (2009, May) Salt-induced land and water degradation in the Aral Sea basin: A challenge to sustainable agriculture in Central Asia. Natural Resources Forum, vol 33. Blackwell Publishing Ltd, Oxford, UK, pp 134–149. 2 Qdais HA (2008) Environmental impacts of the mega desalination project: the Red–Dead Sea conveyor. Desalination 220(1–3):16–23 Roll G, Alexeeva N, Aladin N, Plotnikov I, Sokolov V, Sarsembekov T, Micklin PP (2003) Aral sea. Lake Basin Management Initiative Experience and Lessons Learned Report Satgé F, Espinoza R, Pillco Zolá R, Roig H, Timouk F, Molina J, Bonnet MP (2017) Role of climate variability and human activity on Poopó Lake droughts between 1990 and 2015 assessed using remote sensing data. Remote Sens 9(3):218 Satgé F, Hussain Y, Xavier A, Zolá RP, Salles L, Timouk F, Bonnet MP (2019) Unraveling the impacts of droughts and agricultural intensification on the Altiplano water resources. Agric For Meteorol 279:107710 Schulz S, Darehshouri S, Hassanzadeh E, Tajrishy M, Schüth C (2020) Climate change or irrigated agriculture–what drives the water level decline of Lake Urmia. Sci Rep 10(1):1–10 Shuford WD, Warnock N, Molina KC, Sturm KK (2002) The Salton Sea as critical habitat to migratory and resident waterbirds. Hydrobiologia 473:255–274 Sivakumar B (2011) Global climate change and its impacts on water resources planning and management: assessment and challenges. Stoch Env Res Risk Assess 25:583–600 Soudi M, Ahmadi H, Yasi M, Hamidi SA (2017) Sustainable restoration of the Urmia Lake: History, threats, opportunities and challenges. Eur Water 60(1):341–347 Su Y, Li X, Feng M, Nian Y, Huang L, Xie T, Chen F (2021) High agricultural water consumption led to the continued shrinkage of the Aral Sea during 1992–2015. Sci Total Environ 777:145993 Verschuren D, Johnson TC, Kling HJ, Edgington DN, Leavitt PR, Brown ET, Hecky RE (2002) History and timing of human impact on Lake Victoria, East Africa. Proceedings of the Royal Society of London. Series B: Biological Sciences, 269(1488), 289–294 Williams WD (2002) Environmental threats to salt lakes and the likely status of inland saline ecosystems in 2025. Environ Conserv 29(2):154–167 Williams WD (2002) Environmental threats to salt lakes and the likely status of inland saline ecosystems in 2025. Environ Conserv 29(2):154–167 Wine ML, Laronne JB (2020) In water-limited landscapes, an Anthropocene exchange: trading lakes for irrigated agriculture. Earth's Future, 8(4), e2019EF001274 Wine ML, Null SE, DeRose RJ, Wurtsbaugh WA Climatization—negligent attribution of Great Salt Lake desiccation: a comment on, Meng (2019) (2019). Climate, 7(5), 67 Woolway RI, Kraemer BM, Lenters JD, Merchant CJ, O’Reilly CM, Sharma S (2020) Global lake responses to climate change. Nat Reviews Earth Environ 1(8):388–403 Wurtsbaugh WA, Sima S (2022) Contrasting management and fates of two sister lakes: great salt Lake (USA) and Lake Urmia (Iran). Water 14(19):3005 Wurtsbaugh WA, Miller C, Null SE, Wilcock P, Hahnenberger M, Howe F (2016) Impacts of water development on. Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Front Yang Xuewen N, Wang A, Chen J, He T, Hua Y (2020) Qie Changes in area and water volume of the Aral Sea in the arid Central Asia over the period of 1960–2018 and their causes. CATENA, Volume 191, August 2020, 104566, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.catena.2020.104566 Yunana DA, Shittu AA, Ayuba S, Bassah EJ, Joshua WK (2017) Climate change and lake water resources in Sub-Saharan Africa: case study of lake Chad and lake Victoria. Nigerian J Technol 36(2):648–654 Zhao S, Cook KH, Vizy EK (2022) How shrinkage of Lake Chad affects the local climate. Clim Dyn, 1–25 Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {\"props\":{\"pageProps\":{\"initialData\":{\"identity\":\"rs-3900900\",\"acceptedTermsAndConditions\":true,\"allowDirectSubmit\":true,\"archivedVersions\":[],\"articleType\":\"Research Article\",\"associatedPublications\":[],\"authors\":[{\"id\":269493901,\"identity\":\"1fcd0814-97ce-4ebd-ab0c-1b125a003b4a\",\"order_by\":0,\"name\":\"Zafarjon Sultonov\",\"email\":\"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAABFUlEQVRIie3QsUrEMBjA8a8E2iXHrTkK11eoFKrF4rOkFOJSXW4VDQh2ObnVewtF6FwJ2CXu2bwi3OwtcjeI5u7AQVJON5H8hwwpvyRfAWy2v9pss6L6a4PsJJSuV5d+J2gXweHPSMC9OcmW6WmfFIt2eZZCvxStWhQC9r1JbSIOxzGhlI0GNyf3EX5kQCSLkmklIBkL4y0IsKuJyG7lU+U7XFxwBbHf0yRUuZG4oB+2JXI+WPEPCJT35r+vyfOLkWCAeEuasUt6vNaH49h3NreYxycIRweUsWxaXkV6lhz2ZDFKrqtjHMo8NJGgLFv1mqbZBKFW/7EjGDbNnVpVh8OweZh1zG/uEnd86O7818Jms9n+bZ+iAF4pLFQr/wAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==\",\"orcid\":\"https://orcid.org/0009-0007-3319-8833\",\"institution\":\"OSCE Academy\",\"correspondingAuthor\":true,\"prefix\":\"\",\"firstName\":\"Zafarjon\",\"middleName\":\"\",\"lastName\":\"Sultonov\",\"suffix\":\"\"},{\"id\":269493902,\"identity\":\"5febacb5-d67e-4fe1-9558-be816c4866e6\",\"order_by\":1,\"name\":\"Hari K. Pant\",\"email\":\"\",\"orcid\":\"\",\"institution\":\"Lehman College\",\"correspondingAuthor\":false,\"prefix\":\"\",\"firstName\":\"Hari\",\"middleName\":\"K.\",\"lastName\":\"Pant\",\"suffix\":\"\"}],\"badges\":[],\"createdAt\":\"2024-01-26 19:42:27\",\"currentVersionCode\":1,\"declarations\":\"\",\"doi\":\"10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900900/v1\",\"doiUrl\":\"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900900/v1\",\"draftVersion\":[],\"editorialEvents\":[],\"editorialNote\":\"\",\"failedWorkflow\":false,\"files\":[{\"id\":50389711,\"identity\":\"401e6d26-f294-4a73-bc93-c8ef325364a7\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2024-01-30 18:30:49\",\"extension\":\"jpeg\",\"order_by\":1,\"title\":\"Figure 1\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"figure\",\"size\":234360,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eMap of saline lakes and inland seas facing shrinking issues\\u003c/p\\u003e\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"floatimage1.jpeg\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3900900/v1/7e4f19fc280d954613c5778e.jpeg\"},{\"id\":50389709,\"identity\":\"23d4c9d9-a046-45fe-8067-93dc92d4596e\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2024-01-30 18:30:48\",\"extension\":\"png\",\"order_by\":2,\"title\":\"Figure 2\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"figure\",\"size\":36904,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eThe process of shrinking saline lakes and inland seas under the human and nature factors which led to negative impacts and consequences\\u003c/p\\u003e\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"F2.png\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3900900/v1/40e26c69dd97c10c9c2909ed.png\"},{\"id\":53178366,\"identity\":\"f4c545fa-ddc6-438e-af21-6bb420aa1fe3\",\"added_by\":\"auto\",\"created_at\":\"2024-03-21 15:06:59\",\"extension\":\"pdf\",\"order_by\":0,\"title\":\"\",\"display\":\"\",\"copyAsset\":false,\"role\":\"manuscript-pdf\",\"size\":466850,\"visible\":true,\"origin\":\"\",\"legend\":\"\",\"description\":\"\",\"filename\":\"manuscript.pdf\",\"url\":\"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3900900/v1/c1a177c8-1c15-4602-8448-8d7715844477.pdf\"}],\"financialInterests\":\"\",\"formattedTitle\":\"Shared Environmental Challenges: A Comparative Analysis of Saline Lakes and Inland Seas' Decline.\",\"fulltext\":[{\"header\":\"1. Introduction\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eThe degradation and shrinking of lakes and inland seas, associated with water scarcity, pose significant environmental challenges in the early 21st century. These issues are influenced by a combination of human activities and natural climate variability (Kostianoy et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR15\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2004\\u003c/span\\u003e). Inland waters, such as lakes and rivers, are vital for human uses and support diverse ecosystems. However, they are under threat from water diversion, pollution, invasive species, and climate change (Sivakumar, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR34\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2011\\u003c/span\\u003e). The expansion of irrigated agriculture in water-limited regions is causing significant shrinkage of lakes worldwide. Currently, 11% of global lake area has already been lost due to increased water consumption for irrigation. This trend is expected to continue, with an anticipated additional 60\\u0026ndash;130% increase in the loss of endorheic lakes. The unsustainable water demand from irrigation poses a serious threat to water quality, ecosystems, and the overall sustainability of these lakes (Wine and Laronne, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR40\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2020\\u003c/span\\u003e). Salt lakes, important inland aquatic ecosystems, are significantly impacted by pollution. Human activities such as mining, catchment activities, and pollution from various sources pose a threat to the natural character and biodiversity of salt lakes. The adverse effects of pollution on salt lakes are widespread and degrade their ecological values (Williams, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR38\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2002\\u003c/span\\u003e). Climate change poses a significant threat to global lake ecosystems, impacting various physical variables. Changes in ice cover and surface temperature, driven by climate change, affect lake mixing patterns and evaporation rates. Without sufficient precipitation or inflow, increased evaporation can lead to decreased lake levels and surface water extent. These changes have profound implications for lake ecosystems, altering water quantity, quality, food availability, recreational activities, and transportation (Woolway et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR42\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2020\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"2. Methodology\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eThe study employs a comparative analyses approach combined with case study of each saline lakes and inland seas separately to analyses the shrinking of the lakes. The methodology consist of several key steps including case study section of each saline lake and inland sea separately, comparative analyses, identification of driving factors, potential outcomes, negative impacts and consequences.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eTo insure comparative analyses several saline lakes and inland seas were selected that relatively facing the issue of shrinking over the past decades. The selected saline lakes and inland seas are located in different parts of the world, surrounded by different ecosystem and environments. The targeted saline lakes are located in economically different regions ranging from undeveloped to developed counties. Some of them are in one country; others are between two countries or are a transboundary issues.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eRelevant data was selected about each targeted saline lake and inland sea. Data collection included information about geographical location of each saline lakes and inland seas, historical data including original surface and latest surface. The main drivers and factors of decline for each saline lake and inland sea were identified and potential outcomes, impacts and negative consequences were assessed. The main source of the data is scientific literature.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eComparative analyses were conducted to find similarities and differences among the driving factors, impacts and negative consequences. Based on the conducted analyses primarily, secondary and additional factors for emergence of the issue were identified and assessed. Consequently the potential negative outcomes and consequences were recognized.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eHowever, the deployed methodology has limitation due to the fact the saline lakes and inland seas have unique characteristics and vary in terms of size, depth and process of decline. Accordingly, their unique characteristic in terms of political and environmental surroundings, social economic development, resources, expertise has significant impact on restoration efforts, mitigation strategies and addressing the issue. In addition the negative impact and consequences also may vary depending on geographical location, ecosystem surroundings.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eBased on the conducted comparative analyses the potential outcomes are highlighted and the possible solutions and recommendation are provided. In addition, some best practices and lessons are highlighted for preserving engendered saline lakes and inland seas worldwide. Therefore to address the issue of saline lakes and inland seas\\u0026rsquo; decline a set of recommendations are provided covering a four level of measures including effective managements, accurate restoration and mitigation efforts, and additional solutions.\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"3. Case Study of Each Saline Lake and Inland Sea\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cb\\u003ea. Aral Sea\\u003c/b\\u003e: The Aral Sea symbolizes as a human-induced environmental devastation is located in Central Asia, between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Its watershed is mainly shared by six nations: Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan. In 1960, the Aral Sea had a surface area of 67,499 km\\u0026sup2; however, as of the latest available data, the surface area of the Aral Sea has significantly diminished, reaching approximately 6,990 km\\u0026sup2; (Micklin, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR21\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2016\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eMain Drivers: The main drivers behind the Aral Sea's challenges include both natural factors and human activities. Human activities, such as extensive irrigation practices diverting water from the rivers that feed the sea, and the construction of dams, have contributed to its water depletion. Since 1960, the Aral Sea has been shrinking due to poor water management practices and over-extraction of water for irrigation purposes from the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers, along with the construction of artificial dams (Micklin, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR20\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2007\\u003c/span\\u003e; Yang et al., 2020). The amount of land being irrigated in the Aral Sea basin has grown from 5.2\\u0026nbsp;million hectares in 1960 to 9.61\\u0026nbsp;million hectares by 2008, making the area one of the most heavily irrigated regions on the planet (Qadir et al., 2009). Natural factors include its geographical location in an arid region with limited freshwater inflows. However, according Su et al. (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR36\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2021\\u003c/span\\u003e) climate change has had a positive effect on the water supply to the Aral Sea. But, the sea continues to shrink primarily due to the high water consumption in agriculture, which has persisted since the Soviet era. Urbanization and increased water demand further exacerbate this issue, resulting in insufficient water inflow to maintain the existing water surface (Su et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR36\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2021\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003ePotential outcomes: The Aral Sea has experienced significant water scarcity, resulting in its dramatic shrinkage over the years. This has led to the deterioration of water quality, increased salinity, and loss of aquatic habitats. Therefore, the decreased water level and increased salinity caused the death of numerous fish species, endangering the survival of remaining marine life and leading to the collapse of the fishing industry. This ecological disruption had significant socioeconomic consequences, resulting in the loss of livelihoods for many fishermen and a decline in the local economy (Ermakhanov et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR7\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2012\\u003c/span\\u003e). The shrinking of the Aral Sea has led to increased pollution from irrigation runoff carrying salts, fertilizers, and toxic substances, contaminating the soil and water. Dust storms have also emerged and the environment by carrying dry sediment and salt, causing health issues, soil erosion, and desertification (Orlovsky et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR26\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2004\\u003c/span\\u003e). The decline of the Aral Sea had a detrimental impact on biodiversity and surrounding ecosystem led to the loss of fisheries. Ecological degradation and loss of fish industry had negative consequences the social and economic life of the surrounding communities (Roll et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR29\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2003\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cb\\u003eb. Lake Chad\\u003c/b\\u003e: The Lake Chad basin is home to a population of nearly 30\\u0026nbsp;million people across four riparian countries: Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria. However, the shrinkage of Lake Chad has been labeled an ecological catastrophe. Over time, the lake has experienced significant reduction in water storage, leading to a drastic decrease in its surface area. From the 1960s to 2005, the lake's surface area declined from approximately 25,000 km\\u0026sup2; to just 1,350 km\\u0026sup2; (Yunana et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR46\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2017\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eMain Drivers: The shrinkage of Lake Chad is primarily attributed to human activities, with a 66% decline in stream flow, and climate variability. Increased water withdrawals and human interventions have significantly contributed to the lake's shrinkage, while rising temperatures and declining precipitation have worsened the situation (Mahmood and Jia, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR18\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2019\\u003c/span\\u003e). Human activities, such as population displacement and intensive land use along the lake's shores, have increased the demand for water resources. Meanwhile, natural factors, including decreased rainfall, severe droughts, and increased seasonal level variation, have further exacerbated the shrinkage (Lemoalle, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR16\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2004\\u003c/span\\u003e). Lake Chad which is one of the largest in Africa drastically reduced in size due to anthropogenic factors including over-exploitation of natural resources and increased water demand due to population growth and climate change impacts (Ekperusi and Ekperusi, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR6\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2021\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003ePotential outcomes: Lake Chad with its significant shrinkage by 90% over the past 40 years has contributed to the deepening poverty and insecurity in the region. The decline in the lake's water level has impacted fishing livelihoods, irrigation farming, and agricultural activities, leading to economic decline. This, in turn, has created a fertile ground for the rise of Boko Haram and increased criminal activities (Nwanegbo et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR24\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2019\\u003c/span\\u003e). Lake Chad's environmental degradation has a profound impact on livelihoods and conflicts within its basin. The scarcity of resources caused by degradation disrupts economic activities and interacts with social variables, contributing to conflicts in the region. The shrinking of Lake Chad is a pressing concern, especially for Nigeria, with the North-Eastern region bearing the brunt of its consequences (Onuoha, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR25\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2008\\u003c/span\\u003e). The shrinkage of Lake Chad does have an impact on local climate change. A huge reduction in the size of the lake has affects precipitation patterns resulting in climate change in the region (Zhao et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR47\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2022\\u003c/span\\u003e). These findings support the credibility of the \\\"boomerang effect\\\" concept, which suggests that the shrinkage of lakes can have feedback effects on climate change.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cb\\u003ec. Lake Urmia\\u003c/b\\u003e: Lake Urmia is located in northwestern Iran in the province of West Azerbaijan, near the border with Turkey. Lake Urmia, a highly endangered ecosystem, has experienced a drastic decline, with its area decreasing by approximately 88% in recent decades (AghaKouchak et al., 2015). Its natural area was 4630 km2 but as of September 2022, its area shrank to 1427 km2 which comprises only 31% its original area (Wurtsbaugh and Sima, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR43\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2022\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eMain Drivers: The primary drivers of Lake Urmia's challenges are both natural and human-induced. Human interventions, particularly agricultural and irrigation expansions stand as the key driving force behind the desiccation of Lake Urmia. Atmospheric-climatic changes alone cannot fully account for the substantial decline in water levels. The increase in agricultural crop transpiration, fueled by human-induced vegetation cover expansion, reduces runoff and intensifies the water level decline (Khazaei et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR14\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2019\\u003c/span\\u003e). Human influence, particularly agricultural water extraction, contributes to the lake's vulnerability while climate change plays a significant role in the declining volume of Lake Urmia, with variations in climatic conditions being the primary driver (Schulz et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR32\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2020\\u003c/span\\u003e). However, Urmia Lake, the world's second-largest saline lake in Iran, is facing a critical situation due to the construction of more than fifty dams. These dams have significantly reduced the inflow of water into the lake, contributing to its rapid decline (Soudi et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR35\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2017\\u003c/span\\u003e; Garousi et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR10\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2013\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003ePotential outcomes: Lake Urmia faces similar environmental challenges, including water scarcity, reduced water levels, and increased salinity. These factors have led to the loss of wetlands, degradation of ecosystems, and threats to biodiversity. The declining water level of Lake Urmia poses a severe impact and threat. This reduction, spanning over two decades, has significant consequences for the environment and human well-being. The ecological crisis of Lake Urmia has significant implications for up to 76\\u0026nbsp;million people living in the region (Opp et al., 2017; Garousi et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR10\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2013\\u003c/span\\u003e). The shrinking lake threatens the regional ecosystem, leading to potential collapse and migration of the local population. Additionally, it results in the release of salty winds in neighboring provinces, negatively affecting human health. The destruction of Lake Urmia National Park further exacerbates the situation (Nhu et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR22\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2020\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cb\\u003ed. Great Salt Lake\\u003c/b\\u003e: The Great Salt Lake is located in Utah, Idaho, USA. Its natural area was 4980 km2 but as of 4 September 2022, its area shrank to 2303 km2 which comprises only 46% its original area (Wurtsbaugh and Sima, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR43\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2022\\u003c/span\\u003e). The Great Salt Lake is a vital keystone ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere, providing economic benefits, habitat for migratory birds, and minerals for industries (Abbott et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR1\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2023\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eMain Drivers: The main drivers impacting the Great Salt Lake are consumptive water uses and climate fluctuations. Consumptive water uses consistently decrease the lake's water supply, resulting in long-term reductions in levels, volume, and increased salinity. However, climate fluctuations, including flooding and drought cycles, lead to varying water levels. (Wurtsbaugh et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR44\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2016\\u003c/span\\u003e). Climate change has only a minor effect on the Great Salt Lake decline with a 1.4\\u0026deg;C rise in air temperature potentially causing only a small decrease in lake level. However, long-term changes in GSL are mainly caused by human induced factors particularly through increased consumption of water for irrigated agriculture (Wine et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR41\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2019\\u003c/span\\u003e). Droughts and wet cycles have made the lake's water level, size, and saltiness change a lot, making it hard to see the human impacts. However, research has revealed that consumptive water uses in the watershed, primarily driven by agriculture, cities, solar ponds, and other activities, have depleted inflows by approximately 39%. Climate change, at present, has not noticeably influenced the lake level, although it remains a concern for the future (Null and Wurtsbaugh, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR23\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2020\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003ePotential outcomes: Both human and nature drivers have resulted in decreased water levels, reduced volume, increased salinity, and exposure of the lake bed. Additionally, the desiccation of certain areas has led to habitat loss for waterfowl and shorebirds. Industries, such as marinas and mineral extraction, have been negatively affected, and wind-blown dust has increased. (Wurtsbaugh et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR44\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2016\\u003c/span\\u003e). Excessive water use is causing significant damage to the lake. It has experienced a drastic decrease in water level and surface area, leading to habitat loss, toxic dust exposure, and disruption of food webs. The lake's decline has accelerated since 2020, and if this trend continues, it could vanish within five years. The consequences of losing the lake are underestimated, as it would result in environmental, health, and economic crises. (Abbott et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR1\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2023\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cb\\u003ee. Dead Sea\\u003c/b\\u003e: The Dead Sea is located in the Middle East, bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel and Palestine to the west. The Dead Sea is a hypersaline lake with a salinity of 277g/kg currently declining by 1m/year (Lensky et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR17\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2005\\u003c/span\\u003e). Therefore according Qdais, (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR28\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2008\\u003c/span\\u003e) surface area of Dead Sea has diminished from 940km2 in the 1960s to 637km2 today (Qdais, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR28\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2008\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eMain Drivers: the shrinking of the Dead Sea is primarily driven by human activities such as the diversion of water from the Jordan River for agricultural and industrial use, which has reduced the inflow of freshwater into the lake (Gertman and Hecht, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR11\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2002\\u003c/span\\u003e). The Dead Sea has experienced fluctuations in water level due to climatic changes. However, recent lowering of the lake is mainly attributed to upstream freshwater diversion projects and mineral extraction industries (Abu Ghazleh et al., 2011). The Dead Sea's decline has been significantly affected by human activity causing drastic reduction of runoff. The surface level of the Dead Sea has been lowered at an average rate of about 60 cm/year since 1977 but it reached 60 cm/year in 1998\\u0026ndash;2000, resulting in changes in salinity and stability (Gertman and Hecht, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR11\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2002\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003ePotential outcomes: The decline in water level poses environmental hazards and threatens the unique natural and historical resource of the Dead Sea (Abu Ghazleh, et al., 2011). Dead Sea coastal area is experiencing a catastrophic collapse with the sudden appearance of hundreds of sinkholes. Multidisciplinary research since 1999 suggests that the sinkholes are formed by the dissolution of a thick salt layer due to undersaturated groundwater, which migrates eastward as the Dead Sea declines. The sinkholes are also associated with land subsidence and formation along buried faults, indicating the destabilization of underground cavities. The declining Dead Sea level plays a significant role in the formation of these sinkholes, making it a severe threat to the region's future (Abelson et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR2\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2006\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cb\\u003ef. Salton Sea\\u003c/b\\u003e: The Salton Sea, located in the southeastern Sonoran desert of California, USA. It is California's largest inland body of water, covers an area of 980 km2 and has a volume of 7.3\\u0026nbsp;million acre-feet. It stretches 58 km in length and is 14\\u0026ndash;22 km wide, with a maximum depth of 15 m (Carmichael and Li, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR3\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2006\\u003c/span\\u003e). However, under the influence of human factors the Salton Sea area has declined to 381 km2 (Reise et al., 2013). The Salton Sea serves as a significant habitat for various waterbirds, including wintering, migratory, and breeding species. It plays a vital role in the Pacific Flyway and hosts thousands of waterbirds, indicating its crucial importance for these avian populations (Shuford et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR33\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2002\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eMain Drivers: The main drivers of the Salton Sea's challenges are primarily human-induced including reduced water inflows due to agricultural practices and urban development. The lake's water resources are impacted by decreased freshwater inputs and increased agricultural runoff, leading to water quality issues and ecosystem degradation (Doede and DeGuzman, (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR5\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2020\\u003c/span\\u003e). Colorado River has affected the Salton Sea's fate for a long time but currently human activities caused a crises for the sea. However the state\\u0026rsquo;s effort to restore it was not sufficient and there is a need to better cooperate and enrolment of private companies to protect wildlife and human health. The study suggests different funding methods and taking land from uncooperative landowners to achieve effective restoration (Hughes, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR13\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2020\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003ePotential outcomes: The Salton Sea encounters challenges such as water quality degradation, salinity increase, and declining ecosystem health (Doede and DeGuzman, (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR5\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2020\\u003c/span\\u003e). Salton Sea ecosystem degradation and loss of its wetland as the important habitat to bird in North America is very concerning. The sea is facing significant problems with increasing salinity, contaminants, disease outbreaks, and large bird die-offs (Shuford et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR33\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2002\\u003c/span\\u003e). The Salton Sea faces poor air quality with an expanding dry lakebed becoming a potential source of dust. In a study conducted in 2017-18, dust deposits were collected monthly at five sites in the basin and analyzed for elemental and solubleanion content. Using the Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) method, the data revealed seven distinct dust sources with unique compositional markers: playa, colorado alluvium, local alluvium, agricultural burning, sea spray, anthropogenic trace metals, and anthropogenic copper, except for local alluvium, all sources are influenced by current or historic anthropogenic activities (Frie et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR9\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2019\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cb\\u003eg. Lake Poopo\\u003c/b\\u003e: The Lake Poopo a salt lake located in Oruro, Altiplano, Bolivia. The Lake Poopo\\u0026rsquo;s largest extent was registered as 3302 km\\u0026sup2; in 1986 but under both human and nature factors the lake completely disappeared in 2015 (Satg\\u0026eacute; et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR30\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2017\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eMain Drivers: The main drivers of Lake Poopo crises were both human and nature factors. Satg\\u0026eacute; et al., (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR30\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2017\\u003c/span\\u003e) used a remote sensing data to monitor the fluctuation of Lake Poopo over the period of last 26 years. The study revealed that three major droughts were observed but recent disappearance of the lake was influenced both by natural and human factors. The human factors included expansion of quinoa farming, exploitation of mining, increasing population water consumption while natural factors include global warming, rising temperature and increase in evapotranspiration (Satg\\u0026eacute; et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR30\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2017\\u003c/span\\u003e). Satg\\u0026eacute; et al., (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR31\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2019\\u003c/span\\u003e) used the remote sensing product to study the dynamics of agricultural land expansion, regional climatic variability, vegetation, and water resources. The study analyzed the potential role of the hydrological drought events and human activities in causing water scarcity in Altiplano region. It revealed that quinoa crop, potatoes and alfalfa expansion, and mining activity in the region significantly contributed in depletion of water resources. In addition, past hydrological droughts played crucial role in decreasing of total water storage in the region (Satg\\u0026eacute; et al., \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR31\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2019\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003ePotential outcomes: The issue of Lake Poopo represents not only loss of a single body of water but destruction of entire ecosystem and biodiversity. Up to 200 species of fish, birds, reptiles and mammals are at risk of being lost forever. The lake was a crucial location for three distinct species of flamingo and other migratory birds (Farthing, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR8\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2017\\u003c/span\\u003e). The decline of Lake Poopo and the associated water scarcity issue has graver implications for vulnerable populations in the region including rural, indigenous, poor, and female populations. The water scarcity caused environmental migration where the people mostly men leave the area in search of livelihood and better conditions. However situation is worse with women left behind who cope with water scarcity as water is an important element for their household activities (Meeks, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR19\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2018\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"4. Discussions\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eA comparative analysis of the Aral Sea, Lake Chad, Lake Urmia, the Great Salt Lake, Dead Sea, the Salton Sea and Lake Poopo is very crucial, as it provides a valuable insight into common challenges and potential solutions in addressing the issue related with their decline. The analysis is complicated due to the fact that these saline lakes and inland seas are located in different geographical regions, different continents surrounded by different ecosystems. In addition the given salt lakes and inland seas have unique characteristics which vary in terms of size, depth and process of decline. Therefore, if some lakes are facing the issue of drying up but some others are already at risk of entirely disappearance or disappeared forever with no chance of restoring them again.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"gridtable\\\"\\u003e\\u003ctable float=\\\"Yes\\\" id=\\\"Tab1\\\" border=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e \\u003ccaption language=\\\"En\\\"\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionNumber\\\"\\u003eTable 1\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionContent\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eComparison between the original area and the recent areas of the saline lakes and inland seas\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003c/caption\\u003e \\u003ccolgroup cols=\\\"8\\\"\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\" colnum=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\" colnum=\\\"2\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\" colnum=\\\"3\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\" colnum=\\\"4\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c5\\\" colnum=\\\"5\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c6\\\" colnum=\\\"6\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c7\\\" colnum=\\\"7\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c8\\\" colnum=\\\"8\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cthead\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eAral\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSea\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eLake Chad\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eLake Urmia\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c5\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eGrate Salt Lake\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c6\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eDead\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSea\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c7\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSalton Sea\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c8\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eLake Poopo\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003c/thead\\u003e \\u003ctbody\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cb\\u003eOriginal size\\u003c/b\\u003e km\\u0026sup2;\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e67,499\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e25,000\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e4,630\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c5\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e4,980\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c6\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e940\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c7\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e980\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c8\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e3,302\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cb\\u003eLatest size\\u003c/b\\u003e km\\u0026sup2;\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e6,990\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e1,350\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e1,427\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c5\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e2,303\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c6\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e637\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c7\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e381\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"char\\\" char=\\\".\\\" colname=\\\"c8\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e0\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003c/tbody\\u003e \\u003c/colgroup\\u003e \\u003c/table\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSource: Based on the data from Wurtsbaugh and Sima (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR43\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2022\\u003c/span\\u003e), Satg\\u0026eacute; et al. (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR30\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2017\\u003c/span\\u003e), Yunana et al. (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR46\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2017\\u003c/span\\u003e), Micklin (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR21\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2016\\u003c/span\\u003e), Reise et al. (2013), Qdais (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR28\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2008\\u003c/span\\u003e), Carmichael and Li (\\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR3\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2006\\u003c/span\\u003e)\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eThus, the percentage of drained area for each saline lakes and inland seas according the given data is as follows:\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"gridtable\\\"\\u003e\\u003ctable float=\\\"Yes\\\" id=\\\"Tab2\\\" border=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e \\u003ccaption language=\\\"En\\\"\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionNumber\\\"\\u003eTable 2\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionContent\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003ePercentage of drained area for each saline lakes and inland seas\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003c/caption\\u003e \\u003ccolgroup cols=\\\"2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\" colnum=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\" colnum=\\\"2\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cthead\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eAral Sea\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e89.62%\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eLake Chad\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e94.54%\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eLake Urmia\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e69.19%\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003c/thead\\u003e \\u003ctbody\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cb\\u003eGreat Salt Lake\\u003c/b\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cb\\u003e53.81%\\u003c/b\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cb\\u003eDead Sea\\u003c/b\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cb\\u003e32.45%\\u003c/b\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cb\\u003eSalton Sea\\u003c/b\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cb\\u003e61.73%\\u003c/b\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cb\\u003eLake Poopo\\u003c/b\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cb\\u003e100%\\u003c/b\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003c/tbody\\u003e \\u003c/colgroup\\u003e \\u003c/table\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eAccording to the decline percentages of the given saline lakes and inland seas, we observe that Aral Sea, Lake Chad, Lake Urmia, and Salton Sea are critically endangered. However, the disappearance of Lake Poopo reveals the severity of the issue and highlights that without necessary restoration and mitigation efforts, the saline lakes and inland seas may completely disappear, disrupting the ecosystem and significantly impacting surrounding communities. Therefore, comparative analysis of these saline lakes and inland seas allows us to identify trends, communalities, potential consequences and challenges related with specific stage of shrinking. This helps stakeholders understand the problem factors, better predict the potential outcomes, exchange knowledge and apply the best practices. This is very important in implementing appropriate restoration and mitigation measures.\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"5. Driving Factors Contributing to the Issue\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eTherefore, as a result of the comparative analysis shown in Table\\u0026nbsp;\\u003cspan refid=\\\"Tab2\\\" class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e2\\u003c/span\\u003e, it became clear that the main causes of the decline of all saline lakes and inland seas primarily are human induced factors. This includes excessive use of water resources for irrigation purposes, construction of dams, mineral extraction, and mining. We also observe deviation of water sources, increased demand for water resources due to population growth and urbanization. Additionally, there are anthropogenic factors like pollution which significantly contributed to the deterioration of water quality in the given saline lakes and inland seas. Pollution is usually caused by unsustainable agricultural practices, ineffective water management and mining extractions.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"gridtable\\\"\\u003e\\u003ctable float=\\\"Yes\\\" id=\\\"Tab3\\\" border=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e \\u003ccaption language=\\\"En\\\"\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionNumber\\\"\\u003eTable 3\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionContent\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eOverview of nature and human factors affecting the decline of lakes\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003c/caption\\u003e \\u003ccolgroup cols=\\\"7\\\"\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\" colnum=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\" colnum=\\\"2\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\" colnum=\\\"3\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\" colnum=\\\"4\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c5\\\" colnum=\\\"5\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c6\\\" colnum=\\\"6\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c7\\\" colnum=\\\"7\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cthead\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eAral\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSea\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eLake\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eChad\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eLake\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eUrmia\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eGrate\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSalt Lake\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c5\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eDead\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSea\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c6\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSalton\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSea\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c7\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eLake Poopo\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003c/thead\\u003e \\u003ctbody\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Irrigation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Building dams\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Pollution\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Irrigation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Pollution\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Climate change\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Drought\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Irrigation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Building dams\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Climate change\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Irrigation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Drought\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c5\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Irrigation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Mineral extraction\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c6\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Irrigation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Urbanization\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c7\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Irrigation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Mining\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Drought\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003c/tbody\\u003e \\u003c/colgroup\\u003e \\u003c/table\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eA second cause of drying up of saline lakes and inland seas are natural factors particularly regular drought and climate change in the form of increased temperatures, variability in weather conditions, and fluctuations in precipitation patterns. Natural factors are usually the secondary factors which has contributed to deepening of the issue and accelerated the process of shrinking. Nevertheless, climate change has had different affects depending on the geographical location, size and process of decline of the lakes. Therefore, the impact of climate change on decline of saline lakes and inland seas was different resulting in greater or lesser depending on the specific case. However, in general, the direct effect of climate change on the drying of saline lakes and inland seas as the second main factor is a very negative sign, considering the long term nature of climate change and the possibility of deepening and exacerbating in the future. Therefore, over time and under the influence of climate change, the future of saline lakes and inland seas is in a great risk.\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"6. Potential Outcomes and Consequences\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eTable\\u0026nbsp;\\u003cspan refid=\\\"Tab4\\\" class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e4\\u003c/span\\u003e shows negative consequences resulting from shrinking of saline lakes and inland seas. Like the driving factors for the emergence of the problem of decline of saline lakes and inland seas, their negative consequences are also vary depending on their size, location and state of decline.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"gridtable\\\"\\u003e\\u003ctable float=\\\"Yes\\\" id=\\\"Tab4\\\" border=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e \\u003ccaption language=\\\"En\\\"\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionNumber\\\"\\u003eTable 4\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionContent\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eThe negative consequences resulting from shrinking of saline lakes and inland seas\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003c/caption\\u003e \\u003ccolgroup cols=\\\"7\\\"\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\" colnum=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\" colnum=\\\"2\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\" colnum=\\\"3\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\" colnum=\\\"4\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c5\\\" colnum=\\\"5\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c6\\\" colnum=\\\"6\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c7\\\" colnum=\\\"7\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cthead\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eAral\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSea\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eLake\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eChad\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eLake\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eUrmia\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eGrate Salt Lake\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c5\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eDead\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSea\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c6\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSalton\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSea\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c7\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eLake\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003ePoopo\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003c/thead\\u003e \\u003ctbody\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Decertification\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Health issues\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Dust storms\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Increased salinity\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Habitat loss\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Contamination\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Fishery loss\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Conflict\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Poverty\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Displacement\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Biodiversity loss\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Climate change\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Fishery loss\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Biodiversity loss\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Economic decline\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Increased salinity\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Health issues\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Migratory birds impact\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Mineral extraction affects\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Increased salinity\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Contamination\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c5\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Appearance of sinkholes\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Tourism impact\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Infrastructure impact\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c6\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Bird die-offs\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Increased salinity\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Contamination\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Dust storms\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c7\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Water scarcity\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Migration\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Poverty\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Complete loss of ecosystem\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003c/tbody\\u003e \\u003c/colgroup\\u003e \\u003c/table\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eAccording the comparative analyses conducted in Table\\u0026nbsp;\\u003cspan refid=\\\"Tab4\\\" class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e4\\u003c/span\\u003e in some saline lakes and inland seas the decline caused ecosystem and biodiversity disruption, leading to environmental degradation and negative socio-economic consequences while in other cases, the issue has had far reaching impacts leading to deterioration of health of surrounding population and even resulting in conflict. We also observe the impact on poverty, displacement of communities, disruption of mineral extractions, threatening wildlife including migratory birds and the occurrence of sinkholes and distraction of settlements and tourism infrastructure. Furthermore, decline of salt lakes and inland seas result in increased salinity and contamination. Typically, contamination occurs due to agricultural pollution caused by ineffective water management, unsustainable agricultural practices, and industrialization, including mining extractions. These pollutants reach the saline lakes and inland seas, resulting in deteriorated water quality and contamination. Besides, we observe that decline of salt lakes and inland seas may affect the local climatic variabilities.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eBased on the comparative analyses of the targeted saline lakes and inland seas, Fig.\\u0026nbsp;\\u003cspan refid=\\\"Fig2\\\" class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e2\\u003c/span\\u003e shows the full picture of process of shrinkage of salt lakes and inland seas under the combination of human and nature induced factors which led to significant impacts and negative consequences.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eHowever, it is important to note that decline of saline lakes and inland seas is relatively a new phenomenon and there is a knowledge gap in understanding the full impacts and implication associated with this issue. In particular the impact of shrinking salt lakes and inland seas and its social economic consequences especially implications on food security, health, migration, poverty, and conflict issues have not been extensively studied. In addition, decline of saline lakes and inland seas can have adverse effect triggering local climate change, pollution and negatively impacting irrigation and posing challenges for agricultural sustainability.\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"7. Learning from Best Practices and Lessons\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eLearning lessons from restoration of the Aral Sea construction of the Kokaral Dam in Kazakhstan which played a significant role is very important. Completed in 2005, this dike separated the northern Aral Sea also known as the Small Aral Sea from the southern Aral Sea, resulting in partial restoration of the ecosystem in the northern Aral Sea. The dike allowed for the controlled flow of the water into the northern Aral Sea, as a result water levels increased, leading to reduced salt levels and improved overall water quality (Micklin, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR21\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2016\\u003c/span\\u003e). The Small Aral Sea restoration effort serves as a valuable lesson not only for restoring the remaining parts of the Aral Sea but addressing similar ecological challenges in other parts of the world particularly in the given lakes.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eOne of the exemplary practices that can be learned from is the restoration efforts at the Salton Sea in the United States. The Salton Sea has experienced environmental degradation, including declining water quality, and habitat loss, which has adversely affected its surrounding ecosystems. Positive developments at the Salton Sea include the establishment of pilot projects that have demonstrated the potential benefits of restoration efforts. One such project is the U.S. Geological Survey's Salton Sea Science Office, which is currently operating and monitoring a 40-hectare pilot project of shallow habitat on the southeast end of the Sea. This project has successfully attracted a diverse range of bird species, with over 135 different species recorded at the site. The presence of these birds indicates that the habitat restoration efforts are providing valuable resources and support for the avian population (Cohen, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR4\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2019\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eThe successful outcome of Mono Lake crises in California, USA which shared a similarity with the studied lakes in terms of human-induced water diversion achieved through public debate and curtailment of diversions demonstrates the power of community engagement and environmental activism in protecting and preserving valuable ecosystems. The lesson of Mono Lake crises is considered a valuable lesson for restoring and preserving the endangered lakes worldwide (Williams, \\u003cspan citationid=\\\"CR38\\\" class=\\\"CitationRef\\\"\\u003e2002\\u003c/span\\u003e).\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"8. Policy Recommendations\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eThe decline of saline lakes and inland seas is a very complicated issue and requires a multilevel approach solution. However the negative impact and consequences of shrinking lakes is not fully understood yet. Based on the comparative analysis to address the shared environmental challenges in the studied saline lakes and inland seas, policy recommendations and strategies are proposed. Therefore, to address the complex issue of saline lakes and inland seas\\u0026rsquo; decline, we suggest deploying four levels of efforts including effective management, restoration efforts, mitigation strategies and additional solutions (Table\\u0026nbsp;\\u003cspan refid=\\\"Tab5\\\" class=\\\"InternalRef\\\"\\u003e5\\u003c/span\\u003e). By combining and integrating these four levels we can address the complex challenge of shrinking lakes in better and more effective way. In addition, each level has multiple strategies and practices that should be deployed in combined and integrated manner.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"gridtable\\\"\\u003e\\u003ctable float=\\\"Yes\\\" id=\\\"Tab5\\\" border=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e \\u003ccaption language=\\\"En\\\"\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionNumber\\\"\\u003eTable 5\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv class=\\\"CaptionContent\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eFour level approach solution to tackle the issue of saline lakes and inland seas\\u0026rsquo; decline\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003c/caption\\u003e \\u003ccolgroup cols=\\\"4\\\"\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\" colnum=\\\"1\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\" colnum=\\\"2\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\" colnum=\\\"3\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cdiv align=\\\"left\\\" class=\\\"colspec\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\" colnum=\\\"4\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003cthead\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eWater Management and Agricultural Practices\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eEcological Restoration\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eMitigation and Awareness\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003cth align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSustainable Development and Resource Management\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/th\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003c/thead\\u003e \\u003ctbody\\u003e \\u003ctr\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c1\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Drip irrigation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Crop rotation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Water reuse\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Water-saving irrigation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Drought-resistant crops\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Water pollution control\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-River flow regulation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Infrastructure upgrades\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Transboundary cooperation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c2\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Reforestation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Ecosystem rehabilitation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Desalinization\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Dyke construction\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Fish reintroduction\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Protected areas\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Biodiversity restoration\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Soil conservation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Desertification control\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Water purification\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-International funding\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c3\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Public awareness\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Adaptation measures\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Accurate prediction\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Better monitoring\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Comprehensive research\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Conservation campaigns\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Exchange knowledge\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Farmer training\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-International cooperation\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003ctd align=\\\"left\\\" colname=\\\"c4\\\"\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Utilization of renewable energy\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Socio-economic development\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Engage communities\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Ecotourism development\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Promoting alternative livelihood\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Sustainable urban planning\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Sustainable fishery\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Land use management\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Disaster risk reduction\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Sustainable waste management\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003e-Environmental education\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003c/td\\u003e \\u003c/tr\\u003e \\u003c/tbody\\u003e \\u003c/colgroup\\u003e \\u003c/table\\u003e\\u003c/div\\u003e \\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eWhile a proposed four level solution structure which presented in this study provides a framework it need to be noted that the specific approach within each level can be adapted and modified based on the unique characteristic of a specific lake. Therefore this knowledge serves as a foundation for identifying appropriate solutions and interventions.\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"9. Conclusion\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eIn conclusion the decline of the saline lakes and inland seas is a pressing environmental issue which has far reaching negative consequences. It became obvious that, saline lakes and inland seas\\u0026rsquo; decline caused ecosystem and biodiversity disruption, leading to environmental degradation and economic decline while in other cases; the issue has had far reaching impacts leading to deterioration of health of surrounding population and even resulting in conflict. It has been observed that the impact includes poverty, displacement of communities, threatening wildlife, the occurrence of sinkholes and distraction of tourism infrastructure.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eThe comparative analyses of saline lakes and inland seas\\u0026rsquo; decline have revealed the complexity of the issue and far reaching of its negative impacts and consequences. The analyses revealed that the decline of saline lakes and inland seas is influenced by combination of primarily human and then nature factors. The human induced factors include the excessive use of water resources for irrigation purposes, construction of dams, deviation of water sources, urbanization and pollution while nature induced factors include climate change such as high temperature, rainfall patterns fluctuation, less evaporation and drought.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eHowever for effectively addressing this issue it became obvious that a combined and integrated approach is necessary. Our study highlights the importance of deploying a four level solutions including effective management, restoration efforts, mitigation strategies and additional solutions. These layers have multiple policies and practices that should be implemented in coordinated and integrated manner. It is evident, that a collaborative efforts involving stakeholders from varies parties including engaging local community, government, regional corporation internarial collaboration, international organizations and scientific institution is necessary.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eFurthermore, we acknowledge that each lake is unique in terms of exceptional characteristic in terms of political and environmental surroundings, geographical location, and ecosystem surroundings, social economic development, available resources and used expertise. These characteristics also significantly can impact on restoration efforts, mitigation strategies and addressing the issue for a specific saline lakes and inland seas.\\u003c/p\\u003e \\u003cp\\u003eSubsequently, the study identified the emerging challenges faced particularly the threat of climate change, adverse effects of the saline lakes and inland seas\\u0026rsquo; decline. Therefore by utilizing a best practice, exchange knowledge, fostering partnership, innovative solutions we can effectively tackle this issue around the world and insure the preservation, sustainable and healthier future of the endangered saline lakes and inland seas.\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"Declarations\",\"content\":\"\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eAcknowledgements\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eThe authors would like to acknowledge the Fulbright Scholarship awarded to Z. Sultonov by the US Department of State to work with H.K. Pant at Lehman College, the City University of New York.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eAuthors\\u0026apos; Contributions\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eThe contributions of each author are as follows: The initial draft of the manuscript was written by Z. Sultonov. H.K. Pant provided valuable feedback on earlier versions and contributed to manuscript writing and revision. Both authors have thoroughly reviewed and approved the final manuscript.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eFunding\\u0026nbsp;\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eNo specific funding was received for this research. The study was conducted without any external financial support, and there was no involvement of any funding organization in the manuscript preparation.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003e\\u003cstrong\\u003eAvailability of data and materials\\u003c/strong\\u003e\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eThe data and materials used in this review paper are sourced from publicly available scientific literature, research databases, and reputable online repositories. The references and sources cited in the manuscript provide the necessary information to access and retrieve the original data and materials.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eConsent to participate: Both participants involved in this study gave their informed consent to participate, given that they are aware of the study\\u0026apos;s objectives, procedures, risks, and potential benefits.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eConsent to Publish: Both authors of this manuscript have given consent for this manuscript to be published. They acknowledge and agree that the manuscript will be publicly available and support the dissemination of the information presented.\\u003c/p\\u003e\\n\\u003cp\\u003eCompeting Interests: The authors declare no competing interests regarding this research.\\u003c/p\\u003e\"},{\"header\":\"References\",\"content\":\"\\u003col\\u003e\\u003cli\\u003e\\u003cspan\\u003eAbbott BW, Baxter BK, Busche K, de Freitas L, Frie R, Gomez T (2023) Emergency measures needed to rescue Great Salt Lake from ongoing collapse\\u003c/span\\u003e\\u003c/li\\u003e \\u003cli\\u003e\\u003cspan\\u003eAbelson M, Yechieli Y, Crouvi O, Baer G, Wachs D, Bein A, Shtivelman V (2006) Evolution of the Dead Sea sinkholes.\\u003c/span\\u003e\\u003c/li\\u003e \\u003cli\\u003e\\u003cspan\\u003eCarmichael WW, Li R (2006) Cyanobacteria toxins in the Salton Sea. 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CATENA, Volume 191, August 2020, 104566, \\u003cspan class=\\\"ExternalRef\\\"\\u003e\\u003cspan class=\\\"RefSource\\\"\\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.catena.2020.104566\\u003c/span\\u003e\\u003cspan address=\\\"10.1016/j.catena.2020.104566\\\" targettype=\\\"DOI\\\" class=\\\"RefTarget\\\"\\u003e\\u003c/span\\u003e\\u003c/span\\u003e\\u003c/span\\u003e\\u003c/li\\u003e \\u003cli\\u003e\\u003cspan\\u003eYunana DA, Shittu AA, Ayuba S, Bassah EJ, Joshua WK (2017) Climate change and lake water resources in Sub-Saharan Africa: case study of lake Chad and lake Victoria. Nigerian J Technol 36(2):648\\u0026ndash;654\\u003c/span\\u003e\\u003c/li\\u003e \\u003cli\\u003e\\u003cspan\\u003eZhao S, Cook KH, Vizy EK (2022) How shrinkage of Lake Chad affects the local climate. Clim Dyn, 1\\u0026ndash;25\\u003c/span\\u003e\\u003c/li\\u003e\\u003c/ol\\u003e\"}],\"fulltextSource\":\"\",\"fullText\":\"\",\"funders\":[],\"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow\":false,\"hasManuscriptDocX\":true,\"hasOptedInToPreprint\":true,\"hasPassedJournalQc\":\"\",\"hasAnyPriority\":false,\"hideJournal\":true,\"highlight\":\"\",\"institution\":\"\",\"isAcceptedByJournal\":false,\"isAuthorSuppliedPdf\":false,\"isDeskRejected\":\"\",\"isHiddenFromSearch\":false,\"isInQc\":false,\"isInWorkflow\":false,\"isPdf\":false,\"isPdfUpToDate\":true,\"isWithdrawnOrRetracted\":false,\"journal\":{\"display\":true,\"email\":\"info@researchsquare.com\",\"identity\":\"researchsquare\",\"isNatureJournal\":false,\"hasQc\":true,\"allowDirectSubmit\":true,\"externalIdentity\":\"\",\"sideBox\":\"\",\"snPcode\":\"\",\"submissionUrl\":\"/submission\",\"title\":\"Research Square\",\"twitterHandle\":\"researchsquare\",\"acdcEnabled\":true,\"dfaEnabled\":false,\"editorialSystem\":\"\",\"reportingPortfolio\":\"\",\"inReviewEnabled\":false,\"inReviewRevisionsEnabled\":true},\"keywords\":\"World saline lake decline, Climate change, Inland seas, Saline lakes\",\"lastPublishedDoi\":\"10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900900/v1\",\"lastPublishedDoiUrl\":\"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900900/v1\",\"license\":{\"name\":\"CC BY 4.0\",\"url\":\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/\"},\"manuscriptAbstract\":\"\\u003cp\\u003eThe study employs a comparative analyses using case study approach to identify the main drivers and factors for saline lakes and inland seas\\u0026rsquo; decline. Additionally the study investigates the potential outcomes and negative consequences and adverse effects associated with this issue. Furthermore, the research focuses on emergence of a new threat in the face of climate change and it\\u0026rsquo;s implication for the decline of saline lakes and inland seas. The main objective of the study is to provide an overview of the current situations and potential scenarios and provide solutions in the context of changing climatic conditions which is very crucial to efficiently managing the issue of saline lakes and inland seas\\u0026rsquo; decline across the globe.\\u003c/p\\u003e\",\"manuscriptTitle\":\"Shared Environmental Challenges: A Comparative Analysis of Saline Lakes and Inland Seas' Decline.\",\"msid\":\"\",\"msnumber\":\"\",\"nonDraftVersions\":[{\"code\":1,\"date\":\"2024-01-30 18:30:41\",\"doi\":\"10.21203/rs.3.rs-3900900/v1\",\"editorialEvents\":[{\"type\":\"communityComments\",\"content\":0}],\"status\":\"published\",\"journal\":{\"display\":true,\"email\":\"info@researchsquare.com\",\"identity\":\"researchsquare\",\"isNatureJournal\":false,\"hasQc\":true,\"allowDirectSubmit\":true,\"externalIdentity\":\"\",\"sideBox\":\"\",\"snPcode\":\"\",\"submissionUrl\":\"/submission\",\"title\":\"Research Square\",\"twitterHandle\":\"researchsquare\",\"acdcEnabled\":true,\"dfaEnabled\":false,\"editorialSystem\":\"\",\"reportingPortfolio\":\"\",\"inReviewEnabled\":false,\"inReviewRevisionsEnabled\":true}}],\"origin\":\"\",\"ownerIdentity\":\"1922c0f0-012e-43cc-85a0-5889cd9e39ea\",\"owner\":[],\"postedDate\":\"January 30th, 2024\",\"published\":true,\"recentEditorialEvents\":[],\"rejectedJournal\":[],\"revision\":\"\",\"amendment\":\"\",\"status\":\"posted\",\"subjectAreas\":[],\"tags\":[],\"updatedAt\":\"2024-03-21T14:58:52+00:00\",\"versionOfRecord\":[],\"versionCreatedAt\":\"2024-01-30 18:30:41\",\"video\":\"\",\"vorDoi\":\"\",\"vorDoiUrl\":\"\",\"workflowStages\":[]},\"version\":\"v1\",\"identity\":\"rs-3900900\",\"journalConfig\":\"researchsquare\"},\"__N_SSP\":true},\"page\":\"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]\",\"query\":{\"redirect\":\"/article/rs-3900900\",\"identity\":\"rs-3900900\",\"version\":[\"v1\"]},\"buildId\":\"qtupq5eGEP_6zYnWcrvyt\",\"isFallback\":false,\"isExperimentalCompile\":false,\"dynamicIds\":[84888],\"gssp\":true,\"scriptLoader\":[]}","source_license":"CC-BY-4.0","license_restricted":false}