Canada’s wetlands are some of the most productive ecosystems in the world and support an amazing amount of biodiversity. Not to mention they’re a nature-based solution to helping support climate change.
The world has lost over a third of its wetlands, and now more than ever conservation efforts are needed. 14 per cent of our landmass in Canada consists of wetlands, and they need protection.
If you don’t already support the conservation of Canada’s wetlands, I’m going to present you with 5 reasons why you should get involved and do your part to preserve what remains of this vital landmass.
Wetlands support carbon sequestration
The process of carbon sequestration brings in carbon and traps it in wetland soil. However, not all wetlands are equally capable of storing carbon. Peatlands, including bogs or fens, collect “peat” (partially decomposed plant matter) and other organic matter. This means they store a large amount of carbon.
When peatlands are drained from agriculture, forestry or peat harvesting, carbon and nitrogen is re-released as a greenhouse gas in the form of carbon dioxide as well as nitrous oxide. One third of the world’s global peatlands are in Canada’s arctic, subartic and boreal regions, spreading over 1.1 million square kilometers. They store 25 per cent of the world’s peatland carbon, which is about 150 billion tonnes.
The Hudson Bay Lowlands is one the largest peatlant systems in the world. Basically, we need them to help combat climate change – seriously.
Wetlands are essentially giant, useful sponges
When the sky opens up and rain begins to fall, wetlands step up to absorb excess water, acting as a guard against flooding. But if the land were dry and parched, wetlands are able to release stored water back into the environment. Not to mention wetlands also act as a barrier from storm surges along the coastline.
The Wetlands are natural purifiers
Wetlands have the ability to filter and remove pollutants from the water on account of their lush vegetation. The Cattails plant, for example, can capture excess phosphorus and nitrogen, preventing harmful algal blooms.
Wetlands are also able to filter and get rid of 80-90 per cent of water-borne pathogens. This is important to us in particular because wetlands recharge groundwater – AKA, the water us Canadians rely on for drinking water.
Now, we’re seeing wetlands being constructed as natural infrastructure to clean storm water. In fact, the largest Canadian stormwater treatment wetland is located in Calgary, Alberta.
Wetlands are great for recreational fun
If you haven’t been convinced to protect the wetlands yet, you should consider how much recreational fun there is to be had! If you’re into bird watching, photography or just enjoy a walk in nature – there’s plenty to see in the Canadian wetlands. The waters and wildlife can be safely explored by canoe, or even skated on when the winter time comes around.
Take an educational trip and learn the difference between swamps, bogs and marshes. Learn about the different land and water wildlife just waiting to be explored.
Get involved, educate yourself on what you can do to support Canada’s wetlands. Whether you choose to donate to a charitable organization, provide volunteer support, or just make a conscious effort to reduce your carbon footprint, everyone can help support Canada’s wetlands. One step at a time.