5 Ways Wetland Restoration are Crucial to Climate Change Mitigation

Wetlands often undervalued, play an important role in climate change adaptation.  Wetland restoration for climate change mitigation involves the deliberate and strategic rehabilitation of degraded or drained wetland ecosystems. These unique ecosystems that encompass marshes, swamps and mangroves are nature’s defence against the impacts of a changing climate. From flood control to carbon sequestration, wetlands provide a range of benefits that are essential for our planet’s resilience. 

According to Global wetland Outlook, with 35% loss globally since 1970, wetlands are our most threatened ecosystem, disappearing three times faster than forests. 

Land-use change has emerged as the primary catalyst for the decline of inland wetlands. Among these changes, agriculture the most prevalent form of land-use alteration, has adversely affected over 50 % of wetlands of international importance.  Factors like rising sea-levels, coral bleaching and shifting hydrological patterns are undergoing rapid changes. Among these arctic wetlands are particularly vulnerable to degradation and potential loss. In this blog, we will delve into five crucial ways in which wetlands contribute to climate change adaptation, highlighting the importance in safeguarding our environmental and communities. 

Why are wetlands important? 

Wetlands, which include water, soil, and aquatic vegetation, are important ecosystems.  Wetlands play a pivotal role in sustaining both human and planetary life.  They are the primary contributors, either directly or indirectly to nearly all the world’s freshwater consumption. These ecosystems are also a source of livelihood for over one billion people and stand as one of the most diverse habitats on earth. 

Up to 40% of world’s species rely on wetlands for their habitats and reproduction, although the future of more than 25% of wetland flora and fauna is under threat, facing the risk of extinction. They are essential for preserving biodiversity, serving as breeding grounds for many species, and reducing climate change by sequestering carbon. Wetlands are crucial for both environmental and human well-being because they offer services including water filtration, flood control, and recreational activities. Maintaining these advantages requires protecting and maintaining wetlands. 

Wetlands are becoming more recognized as important instruments for coping with climate change. They serve as organic barriers against severe weather, lowering the risk of flooding and defending coastal areas from increasing sea levels. Furthermore, wetlands store a significant quantity of carbon, which helps to slow down global warming. Enhancing resilience and sustainability in the face of climate-related concerns requires preserving and restoring wetlands. 

These ecosystems serve as a vital wellspring for various resources like freshwater, raw materials, genetic reservoirs and renewable energy through hydropower. Moreover, wetlands play essential roles in transportation, tourism and contribute to the cultural and spiritual richness of human societies. 

How Wetlands help in Climate Change Mitigation? 

Flood Mitigation 

Wetlands can absorb and hold onto water, making them act as natural sponges. Their overabundant plants and soils absorb extra rainfall and runoff like sponges. By slowing down water flow and releasing it gradually into rivers and aquifers, this storage capacity helps reduce floods. Furthermore, wetlands replenish groundwater resources, enhancing water accessibility during dry spells. Wetlands are essential for controlling water levels and lessening the effects of droughts and floods because of their sponge-like characteristics. 

Case studies illustrating wetlands’ role in flood control: 

1. New Orleans, USA: The city’s wetlands, including the vast Mississippi River Delta, act as natural buffers during storms. Hurricane Katrina highlighted the importance of wetlands; areas with intact wetlands suffered less severe flooding compared to areas where wetlands had been drained for development. 

2. Netherlands: The Dutch have long relied on wetlands, such as the Biesbosch region, for flood control. These wetlands absorb excess water during heavy rains, preventing catastrophic flooding in a country prone to inundation. 

3. Bangladesh: The Sundarbans mangrove forest serves as a natural barrier, protecting coastal communities from cyclones and tidal surges by reducing their intensity before reaching populated areas. This wetland ecosystem has saved countless lives and property. 

Wetlands serve as natural barriers, which are essential in preventing flood-related damage. When it rains heavily, they absorb and store extra water, which lessens the amount and speed of floodwaters downstream. Wetlands also aid in controlling water flow, reducing the possibility of flash floods. Wetlands are crucial in reducing the danger of flooding and building disaster resilience because of their potential to retain water and offer a gradual release, which lessens the effects of floods on communities, infrastructure, and agriculture. 

Carbon Sequestration 

Wetlands have a special capacity to store carbon in both soil and vegetation, making them important carbon sinks. In soggy environments, organic matter builds up, inhibiting decomposition and resulting in the long-term storage of carbon.  

The conservation of these ecosystems is essential for mitigating climate change because they hold an estimated 30–40% of the soil carbon in the world, delaying the release of stored carbon into the atmosphere. 

Wetlands’ ability to store carbon is a key factor in the fight against global warming. They are the unsung heroes of carbon sequestration.

Wetlands inhibit the release of CO2, a greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere by storing large amounts of carbon in their soils and vegetation. Wetlands’ preservation and restoration aid in maintaining this carbon sink, lowering atmospheric CO2 concentrations, and preventing global warming. Protection of wetlands also promotes ecosystem health and resilience in the face of climate-related difficulties. 

Wetlands’ ability to store carbon is a key factor in the fight against global warming. Wetlands inhibit the release of CO2, a greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere by storing large amounts of carbon in their soils and vegetation. Wetlands’ preservation and restoration aid in maintaining this carbon sink, lowering atmospheric CO2 concentrations, and preventing global warming. Protection of wetlands also promotes ecosystem health and resilience in the face of climate-related difficulties. 

Wetlands as Nature-based Solutions 

Wetlands are remarkable ecosystems that offer nature-based solutions for generating carbon offsets and mitigating climate change. These waterlogged areas, which include swamps, marshes, bogs and mangroves play a crucial role in sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in a long-term manner.  

To harness wetlands as nature-based solutions for generating carbon offsets, initiatives such as blue carbon projects and peatland restoration are being undertaken worldwide. These efforts aim to protect, restore, and sustainably manage wetlands, preserving their carbon storage capabilities while mitigating climate change. By recognizing wetlands as valuable carbon offset champions, we can not only combat climate change but also protect vital ecosystems and the biodiversity they support. 

Biodiversity and Resilience 

With a variety of species of plants and animals that have adapted to their particular environments, wetland ecosystems are home to great biodiversity.

They serve as nesting grounds and habitats for numerous invertebrates, fish, amphibians, and several types of waterfowl. Species like the Siberian Crane and American Alligator, which are rare and endangered, can be found in wetlands. This diversity enhances the general health of ecosystems and highlights the significance of wetland protection for maintaining biodiversity throughout the world. 

Different ecosystems improve climate resistance in different ways. They support the stability of the environment by offering a variety of species with varied degrees of tolerance to changing conditions. The ability to resist harsh occurrences and bounce back from perturbations is increased by biodiversity. Diverse ecosystems also provide a greater range of services, such as carbon sequestration and natural flood control that can lessen the effects of climate change, ultimately enhancing the adaptability of both natural and human groups. 

Some species are thriving in wetlands despite changing climate conditions: 

1. Saltmarsh Sparrow: These birds have adapted to rising sea levels by nesting higher in salt marshes. 

2. American Bullfrog: Their ability to tolerate fluctuating water levels and temperatures allows them to thrive in a variety of wetland habitats. 

3. Mangrove Trees: Some mangrove species are expanding their ranges in response to changing temperatures, successfully colonizing new areas. 

These examples demonstrate the resilience of certain species in the face of climate change impacts on wetlands. 

Water Quality Improvement 

Nature’s water filters are wetlands. Their particular mix of flora and microbes removes excess nutrients and contaminants from the water, enhancing the quality of the water. During the breakdown of hazardous chemicals, helpful bacteria trap sediment and pollutants. Wetlands are essential for sustaining the health of both the natural and human habitats because this natural filtration process not only benefits aquatic ecosystems but also provides clean, filtered water downstream. 

Case studies demonstrating improved water quality through wetland conservation: 

1. Everglades Restoration, USA: The restoration of Florida’s Everglades has significantly improved water quality by recreating natural wetland habitats. Filters and marshes within the system have effectively reduced phosphorus levels, benefiting aquatic ecosystems and supplying cleaner water to agricultural and urban areas. 

2. Lake Taupo, New Zealand: Wetland restoration along Lake Taupo has reduced nutrient runoff from farming, improving water quality and protecting the lake’s renowned clarity while also benefiting local biodiversity. 

Wetlands offer a variety of advantages to both human communities and aquatic environments. They serve as organic flood barriers, lowering the risk of flooding for adjacent communities. Wetlands also enhance water quality by filtering contaminants, which benefits aquatic life. They provide possibilities for leisure, contribute to local economies through tourism and fishing, and protect important species’ habitats. Consequently, wetlands benefit both human welfare and ecological health. 

Sources of livelihoods 

The variety and complexity of livelihoods reflect the regional economic, social, and environmental circumstances. A rural community’s primary sources of food and income are agriculture and livestock raising, while coastal communities depend on fishing and aquaculture. In wooded and resource-rich regions, forestry and resource exploitation sustain livelihoods. Urban areas employ in the public sector, manufacturing, services, and technology, with key sectors being healthcare, education, finance, and retail. In many localities, entrepreneurship and small enterprises are thriving, and opportunities in IT and e-commerce are being fuelled by the digital economy. In well-known locations, the tourism industry makes a considerable financial contribution.

Traditional crafts, artisanal work, and the unorganized sector also offer opportunities for independent employment and income generation. Many households depend heavily on remittances from relatives who are employed overseas, highlighting the great variety of sources of income that support people and communities around the world. 

How TraceX Harnesses Potential of NBS 

Trace Carbon, TraceX’s sustainability and carbon management platform empowers businesses to harness the potential of nature-based solutions for climate action. From tracking reforestation projects to monitoring wetland conservation efforts, TraceX provides the tools and insights you need to make a real difference. 

Conclusion 

To sum up, livelihoods are the lifeblood of communities, influencing not just the well-being of the individual but also the social and economic structure of societies. These many sources of income, which range from conventional farming methods to burgeoning digital economies, reflect the distinctive conditions of each region. To enhance economic resilience, eradicate poverty, and support social development, it is crucial to understand the significance of sustainable and equitable livelihoods. Understanding the complex network of livelihoods also makes us more aware of how intertwined our global community is, emphasising the necessity of inclusive policies and practices that guarantee the prosperity and well-being of all. 

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