From Agreement to Action: Rebuilding Biodiversity through Wetlands

Every year on May 22, the International Day for Biological Diversity reminds us of the urgent need to protect and preserve the incredible variety of life on our planet. This day has become a global platform for raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the need for collective action to address the ongoing crisis. In 2023, the theme of the International Day for Biological Diversity is “From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity,” highlighting the recent adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework at the United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP15).

 

 

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework represents a beacon of hope in the fight against biodiversity loss. It outlines goals and concrete measures to halt and reverse the decline of nature by 2050. Therefore, the focus must now shift from agreement to action. It is crucial for all parties involved to launch their efforts and implement the framework’s provisions, thereby further accelerating progress toward preserving biodiversity.

As the global community is called to re-examine our relationship with the natural world, one thing is certain: despite all our technological advances, we are completely dependent on healthy and vibrant ecosystems for our water, food, medicines, clothes, fuel, shelter, and energy, just to name a few. The loss of biodiversity poses a threat not only to the natural world but also to our own health and well-being. It has been proven that biodiversity loss can increase the risk of zoonotic diseases, while intact biodiversity offers invaluable tools to combat pandemics like those caused by coronaviruses. Certain human activities significantly reduce the number of species, making the preservation of biodiversity crucial.

Biodiverse habitats, wetlands host a wide range of plant and animal species. Conserving these areas ensures the survival of numerous organisms and maintains the delicate ecosystem balance. The restoration of wetlands is crucial for preserving biodiversity, leading to various benefits for both humans and nature. Protecting and restoring wetlands safeguards countless species, vital ecosystem services, local livelihoods, and the potential for scientific discoveries. Wetlands present an exceptional opportunity to simultaneously address biodiversity loss, and climate change, and promote sustainable development.

 

Flamingos in Camargue. © Eris spiller/ wikimedia commons

 

Here are some reasons why wetlands conservation and restoration are of utmost importance:

  • Biodiversity Hotspots: Wetlands harbor an astonishing diversity of plants, animals, and microorganisms. The intricate interactions among these species contribute to the overall health and resilience of ecosystems. By preserving wetlands, we safeguard countless species from extinction and maintain the delicate balance of nature.
  • Water crisis mitigation: Wetlands, thanks to their diverse array of plant species, regulate water flow and maintain water availability during dry periods. Wetlands also filter pollutants, ensuring a sustainable supply of clean water for communities while creating habitats and food sources for numerous species. 
  • Climate change mitigation: Healthy wetlands, with their rich vegetation, absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, acting as carbon sinks and reducing greenhouse gas levels. They also stabilize ecosystems by strengthening soil structure, preventing erosion, and mitigating the impact of floods and storms,, making them valuable in climate change mitigation efforts.
  • Supporting local livelihoods: Wetlands, with their rich biodiversity, provide vital resources such as fish and shellfish, supporting fishing and aquaculture industries and providing food, reeds, and income for communities. Wetlands also attract ecotourism and recreational activities, contributing to local economies. Preserving wetlands not only protects biodiversity but also ensures the well-being and economic prosperity of these communities.

 

In conclusion, the International Day for Biological Diversity serves as a call to action to protect and restore our planet’s biodiversity. Moreover, with the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, we now have a roadmap for change. Let us prioritize the implementation of this framework and take concrete steps to build back biodiversity. Preserving and restoring wetlands must be a central part of our efforts. By doing so, we secure a future where biodiversity thrives, ecosystems flourish, and humanity coexists harmoniously with the natural world. Remember, when biodiversity suffers, so do we. It’s time to act decisively and ensure a sustainable future for all.