The world’s saltmarshes are disappearing three times faster than forests, threatening global progress on climate change goals, according to a major new report co-led by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology.
The world’s saltmarshes are disappearing three times faster than forests, threatening global progress on climate change goals, according to a major new report co-led by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology.
In a natural state, saltmarsh absorb and lock in carbon dioxide (CO2), act as natural flood defences and support biodiversity. But the report points out saltmarshes now only cover an estimated 53,000km2 globally – less than half their original extent – as these coastal wetlands have been drained, diked and reclaimed for farmland, ports or cities. This has resulted in less CO2 being removed from the atmosphere through saltmarsh vegetation via photosynthesis and more greenhouse gas emitted from the land surface due to degraded habitats.
The State of the World’s Saltmarshes, published by WWF, Sky, the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH) and Blue Marine Foundation points out habitat restoration could deliver important benefits for climate change and flood mitigation.
Read More: UK Centre for ecology & Hydrology
Restored saltmarsh at Wallasea Island, Essex. (Photo Credit: Stefanie Carter)
