Article #3
WETLANDS SINK
IN SEA OF APATHY
Written By:
Zehra Nasirali
Date: 29
September, 1997
Wetlands are mainly marshy swampy areas. These wetlands are very important to the survival of birds and plants. According to the WWF (World Wide Fund) for Nature, the pollution and drainage that agriculture and other industrial development causes have contributed to the problems of wetlands. Agricultural reclamation and pollution near the mouths of the rivers 'Acheloos' and 'Evinos' in Greece are being threatened by huge irrigation schemes. Furthermore, people have misunderstood the various functions of wetlands. A large percentage of fish caught for human consumption rely on wetlands for food. Wetlands are also good for the prevention of floods because they are natural sponges, which soak up water. The other reason we require wetlands are because they help in controlling pollution. They're very good in recycling nitrogen-based nutrients, which help the plants to grow.
In many Third World countries, millions of people depend on wetlands for their daily bread. Michael Smart, secretary general of the Ramsar Convention claims that up to 10% of Ramsar sites face serious problems and difficulties.
In Northern Europe, the most important coastal ecosystem is the Waddenzee. This ecosystem is the feeding area for thousands of fish and birds. However, pollution, over-digging and deepening of the river or seabed and extra exploitation of shellfish are constantly endangering this area.
In my opinion, wetlands are important and necessary. Precious habitats are being destroyed by lack of care of trained personnel. It is our duty to conserve these wetlands before habitats become extinct. So far only Uganda and Canada have adapted to such policies.
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DATE: 10-13 June 1993
SOURCE: ‘The European’
(G.C.I, 's Vertical Files)
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