Conserving Wetlands through Data Collection and Valuation
Investing in data collection and natural resource valuation is crucial for wetland restoration in Southeast Asia. Wetlands are important ecosystems that purify the soil and provide drinking water. They also store carbon dioxide and protect against climate change impacts. However, wetlands are under threat due to human activities, with a 35% decline since the 1970s. The ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) emphasizes the need to address gaps in initiatives and activities to protect and restore the region s wetlands. This includes resolving data deficiencies and promoting the valuation of natural resources. ACB highlights the presence of Wetlands of International Importance in eight ASEAN member states, as well as the significant tropical peatlands and mangrove forests in the region. In the Philippines, there are eight Ramsar sites and efforts are being made to reduce flooding and replant mangroves in specific areas. Overall, the ACB and Wetlands International Philippines call for the conservation, sustainable use, and restoration of wetland ecosystems.
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.
