Conserving Wetlands through Data Collection and Valuation
Investing in data collection and resource valuation is crucial for wetland restoration in Southeast Asia. Wetlands purify soil, provide drinking water, store CO2, and protect against climate change. Human activities threaten wetlands, with a 35% decline since the 1970s. The ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) stresses the need to protect and restore wetlands. Data gaps and resource valuation must be addressed. ACB highlights Wetlands of International Importance in ASEAN states, along with tropical peatlands and mangrove forests. The Philippines has eight Ramsar sites and efforts to reduce flooding and replant mangroves. ACB and Wetlands International Philippines call for wetland conservation and restoration.
