Urgent Report: Global Wetland Losses Could Cost Up to $39 Trillion — What You Need to Know

NAIROBI –

The world is losing wetlands at an alarming rate, with potential economic losses projected at $39 trillion by 2050. This stark warning comes from a recent report by the Convention on Wetlands.

Since 1970, we’ve seen a 22% decline in wetlands, including crucial freshwater systems like rivers and lakes, as well as coastal areas such as mangroves and coral reefs. This loss is happening faster than any other ecosystem.

Factors like land use changes, pollution, agricultural expansion, and climate change are driving this decline. Rising sea levels and increasing droughts further threaten these vital areas. Hugh Robertson, the report’s lead author, states, “The scale of loss and degradation is beyond what we can afford to ignore.”

To combat these threats, annual investments between $275 billion and $550 billion are needed, yet current spending falls short. The report highlights that the world has lost about 411 million hectares of wetlands, with a quarter of what remains in poor condition.

Wetlands provide essential benefits, such as regulating floods, filtering water, and storing carbon. These aspects are particularly important as climate change intensifies storms and floods. Moreover, wetlands support fisheries and agriculture while offering cultural significance.

This report comes ahead of a crucial meeting at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, where representatives from 172 countries will discuss wetland preservation. However, it’s uncertain how many nations will attend.

Wetlands are deteriorating rapidly, especially in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, but the crisis is also evident in Europe and North America. Rehabilitation projects are currently underway in countries like Zambia, Cambodia, and China, showcasing a global effort to restore these crucial ecosystems.

Studies have shown that wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, often yielding benefits that far exceed the costs of restoration. As awareness grows, social media discussions about wetland conservation continue to gain traction, emphasizing the need for immediate action. We need to recognize and protect these ecosystems. The health of our planet depends on it.

For more information on global wetland conservation efforts, you can visit the [Convention on Wetlands](https://www.ramsar.org) website.

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wetlands, climate change, environment