Wetlands International advocates for the (gradual) removal of drainage based activities on peat and replacement of these with sustainable alternatives.

Peatlands emit CO2 when cleared and drained for agriculture and forestry. Over 5% of global CO2 emissions are caused by peatlands degradation. Restoration and sustainable use of these areas can reduce emissions substantially and help people to be more resilient to a changing climate.

Why do we consider the world’s peatlands with their black acidic waters some of the most valuable treasures on earth? By safeguarding peatlands we can reduce millions of tons of CO2, prevent major flooding, save some of the most biodiverse areas in the world and ensure water security for millions of people.

Rural communities and those on the outskirts of urban areas around the world typically have a close relationship with wetlands. They are important to local economies and help meet day to day food, water and sanitation needs. They also support community resilience in the face of a changing environment.

Floodplains are nature’s flood storage areas, evolving to make space when a river is periodically in a flood state. Society has evolved alongside floodplains using their fertile soils and flat land. As a result, vast stretches of floodplains are heavily modified and have lost their natural functions.

Wetlands are cradles of life. They provide resources such as water, food, timber and non-timber products. Wetlands also support and provide habitat and breeding grounds for […]

Wetlands in upland and mountainous areas have an important role in regulating river flows and enhancing the quantity and quality of water downstream. They face an array of threats, including the rapid melting of glaciers due to climate change, overgrazing of livestock, water diversions for agriculture and hydropower, and increased pollution.

Wetlands such as rivers, streams, swamps, lakes, and estuaries play a critical role in supplying and regulating the quantity and quality of water. Water risks to society, including scarcity, droughts and floods, are increasing around the world. Conserving and restoring wetlands is a cost-effective investment strategy to increase water security.

Hard structures like dams, sea walls, and canals have boosted coastal development, but also resulted in the loss of valuable coastal wetlands and their services. Using the Building with Nature approach, we aim to catalyse a fundamental shift in coastal and delta planning.

Considering that 23% of the world’s population and 60% of all megacities are located in lowland areas within 100 kilometres of the sea, coastal and delta wetlands are under increasing pressure. To prevent further decline we work with communities, government agencies and the private sector to monitor threats and develop practical on-the-ground conservation solutions.