Wetland conservation
Wetland conservation is aimed at protecting and preserving areas of land including marshes, swamps, bogs, and fens that are covered by water seasonally or permanently due to a variety of threats from both natural and anthropogenic hazards.
Wetland vary widely in their salinity levels, climate zones, and surrounding geography and play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, ecosystem services, and support human communities.
[2] They provide essential habitats for fish and various wildlife species, playing a vital role in purifying polluted waters and mitigating the damaging effects of floods and storms.
According to Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, numerous wetlands, particularly those situated in floodplains, possess the ability to temporarily hold excess floodwaters when there are high runoff conditions.
[6] The synergy of shallow waters, abundant nutrients, and high primary productivity creates a perfect environment for the growth of organisms that make up the foundation of the food chain, providing nourishment for various fish, amphibians, shellfish, and insects.
[8] Additionally, numerous species of birds and mammals depend on wetlands to find their food, drink water, and have a safe place to stay, particularly during their long journeys or when they're having babies.
These unique ecosystems attract outdoor enthusiasts, providing spaces for activities like birdwatching, hiking, and photography while also serving as educational platforms where people can learn about nature and environmental conservation.
Additionally, wetlands provide researchers with dynamic environments to study various ecological processes and species, contributing to our understanding of the natural world.
Urban development, pollution, land drainage, and climate change are endangering these valuable habitats that serve as essential flood buffers and wildlife havens.
"[16] Common direct impacts of habitat loss to wetlands include removal of vegetation, fluctuation in water levels, and building construction.
As fish play a crucial role in the food chain, their decline can lead to changes in the abundance and behavior of other species, affecting the entire wetland ecosystem.
Pollution from various sources, including agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and urban contaminants, poses a significant threat to the delicate balance of wetland ecosystems, affecting not only their plant and animal residents but also the critical services they provide.
"[18] Invasive species are causing considerable harm to wetlands by outcompeting native plants and animals, thereby disrupting the delicate balance of these ecosystems.
These ecosystems offer natural flood control, water purification, and support for biodiversity, making them essential for ecological health and human well-being.
By restoring wetlands, efforts can enhance their resilience, mitigate the effects of climate change, and ensure the continued provision of valuable ecosystem services.
Additionally, various NGOs, ward committees, and citizen-led groups are actively involved in initiatives like lake restoration and climate action, showcasing their commitment to preserving wetlands.
For instance, fishermen associations like the Matsya Thozhilali Aikya Vedi in India have played significant roles in advocating for wetland conservation.
The Supreme Court's [24] ruling in favor of the fishing community highlighted the importance of involving local stakeholders in decisions impacting wetland management.
These initiatives include activities like re-establishing water flow, controlling invasive species, and replanting native vegetation, ultimately revitalizing wetland ecosystems and safeguarding their critical ecological functions.
They work in various countries, employing local workers to plant trees and restore damaged forests, aiming to combat deforestation, alleviate poverty, and mitigate the effects of climate change.
This involves integrating the latest scientific insights, adapting methods as they evolve, and implementing tailored monitoring techniques for each project to ensure their effectiveness, reliability, and repeatability.
