As the UN Biodiversity Conference unfolds in Cali, Colombia, the spotlight is on wetlands, thanks to a recent assessment by 35 Percent Ltd, commissioned by Wetlands International. This report underscores the crucial role that wetlands play in National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), a framework countries use to meet the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) targets. The findings serve as a timely reminder of the significance of wetlands in the global effort to protect and restore biodiversity.
The Importance of Wetlands
Wetlands are among the planet’s most vital ecosystems. They perform a wide range of ecological services, including:
- Water quality enhancement: Wetlands naturally filter pollutants, improving both surface and groundwater quality.
- Wildlife habitats: They provide critical habitats for many species, supporting approximately 40 percent of the world’s biodiversity.
- Floodwater storage: Wetlands act as natural sponges, storing excess water during floods and preventing downstream flooding.
- Surface water flow maintenance: During dry periods, wetlands maintain water flow, ensuring ecosystems remain resilient.
However, despite their ecological importance, wetlands are disappearing faster than any other ecosystem. This rapid loss threatens not only the species that depend on them but also global efforts to maintain biodiversity.
Wetlands in National Biodiversity Strategies
In its report titled Assessing the Inclusion of Wetlands in NBSAPs, Wetlands International evaluated how well wetlands are represented in these plans. The assessment reviewed 24 NBSAPs from a diverse group of 196 countries participating in the Convention on Biodiversity. Most submissions came from Europe, with notable contributions from Asia, Africa, North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Oceania.
Key Findings:
The report revealed encouraging trends but also highlighted critical gaps in the inclusion of wetlands in biodiversity planning:
- 83 percent of the NBSAPs explicitly mention wetlands, inland waters, or freshwater.
- 100 percent of submissions from Africa and Oceania included wetlands as a key focus.
- Over 90 percent of European nations made specific references to wetlands.
Wetlands are increasingly featured under critical targets linked to the KMGBF. Specifically, 71 percent of NBSAPs outlined measures for wetland restoration under Target 2, and 50 percent included protections for wetlands under Target 3.
While these mentions are a step in the right direction, many plans lack the specific, measurable targets needed for effective conservation and restoration.
Addressing Specific Wetland Types
The report also looked at the mention of specific wetland types. Sixteen NBSAPs referred to wetlands such as mangroves, rivers, lakes, and peatlands. Mangroves and rivers were the most frequently mentioned due to their significance in climate regulation and biodiversity.
However, major wetland areas like the Amazon River Basin and Hudson Bay Lowland—which are globally critical for biodiversity and climate regulation—were notably underrepresented in national strategies. The absence of these important ecosystems is alarming, given the role they play in regulating the global climate and supporting unique biodiversity.
The Way Forward: Integrating Wetlands into Biodiversity Goals
The report concludes that while many nations recognize the importance of wetlands, there is an urgent need to better integrate these ecosystems into national biodiversity targets. Specific, measurable goals for wetland restoration and protection must be established. This approach will ensure that these ecosystems are preserved for future generations and that they continue to provide essential services to nature and humanity.
As COP16 approaches, countries are being called upon to take bold and decisive action. Wetlands are integral to the success of global biodiversity efforts. Properly valuing and conserving them will be key to meeting the goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, benefiting both ecosystems and the millions of people who rely on wetlands for their livelihoods and well-being.
This assessment serves as a powerful wake-up call. To secure a sustainable future for biodiversity, wetlands must become a central component of every nation’s conservation strategy. The path forward demands stronger commitments, targeted action, and international cooperation to protect these irreplaceable ecosystems.