Young people called on to support wetlands for a healthier future

Young coupleYoung people will grow up healthier and more prosperous if the world can reverse the loss of wetlands, is the message from WWT and charities and governments throughout the world today – World Wetlands Day.

Young people in the UK are being asked join the movement to save wetlands by making a pledge and sharing their photos. The same call has gone out to young people in more than 160 countries.

The World Wetlands Day theme - “Wetlands for our future” – reflects the choice facing the world.

WWT Chief Executive Martin Spay CBE said:

“Since 1900 almost two-thirds of wetlands have been drained and cleared in the name of progress. We’re only just appreciating the huge cost to wildlife and people’s livelihoods. Research shows wetlands actually help to provide much of the water, food and natural protection that keep all of us healthy and safe.

“We know now how to build and farm and develop without destroying our wetlands, and we know how to create new wetlands to reverse the poor decisions of the past. We must decide what sort of world we leave for future generations.”

Anyone can make a pledge to make wetlands part of our future on the www.worldwetlandsday.org website. 15-24 year olds are also invited to share their photos of wetlands for the chance to win a trip to a wetland anywhere in the world. WWT has ten wetland reserves around the UK which are open every day during the competition period (2 February to 2 March 2015).

Steart Marshes, WWT's newest reserve acts as a natural flood buffer
WWT Steart Marshes protects homes from flooding, and will provide fish nurseries and grazing land

WWT’s newest reserve – Steart Marshes – shows how restoring wetlands helps us face the challenges of the future. Climate change in the form of storm surges and rising sea levels is already putting pressure on the UK coastline. WWT Steart Marshes includes 250 hectares of new salt marsh that will act as buffer, protecting local villages while increasing wetland and marine wildlife.

At the other end of the spectrum WWT and its subsidiary, WWT Consulting, have also worked in school grounds creating wetlands that help rainwater drain away during heavy downpours. The new habitats have already improved play areas for pupils by reducing puddles and slippery ice, and one even saved a school’s fete from being flooded. They’re also attracting wildlife into school grounds and can be used for outdoor lessons.

WWT Consulting carries out innovative projects around the world that support WWT’s charity work. For example they’re currently helping the World Bank and the Sri Lankan Government to preserve and manage the extensive wetlands of Sri Lanka’s capital, Colombo, which cool the city in the tropical heat and protect its 4.6 million inhabitants from flooding.

Mr Spray continued:

“Examples like these show that wetlands can provide solutions to today’s problems. The challenge is to replace what has been lost in the past.”

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