2022 will mark the first year that the United Nations recognizes World Wetlands Day as an environmental observance on its calendar, although the day has been celebrated for more than two decades. Even more important than the day itself, is the recognition of the ever growing importance of wetlands to the planet’s and our survival. Wetlands, or areas that are either permanently or seasonally flooded, not only help to absorb carbon dioxide and regulate global climate, they perform a wide range of services – from protection against storms and other natural hazards, habitats for other animals which we depend on, to numerous livelihood opportunities. The theme for the 2022 edition is Wetlands Action for People and Nature, and it highlights the importance of actions that ensure that wetlands are conserved and sustainably used. It’s an appeal to invest financial, human and political capital to save the world’s wetlands from disappearing, and to restore those we have degraded.
Why celebrate World Wetlands Day?
Nearly 90% of the world’s wetlands have been degraded since the 1700s, and we are losing wetlands three times faster than forests. It is urgent that we raise national and global awareness about wetlands in order to reverse their rapid loss and encourage actions to conserve and restore them. World Wetlands Day is the ideal time to increase people’s understanding of these ecosystems, and is open to everyone – from international organizations, governments, to children, youth, media, community groups, decision makers and individuals.
Wetlands in Guyana
Our country is home to a wide array of ecosystems, some of which are wetlands, including the Barima Mora passage in Region One, the Iwokrama rainforest and the North Rupununi Wetlands in Region Nine. These combined wetlands are home to more than 400 species of fish, the highest diversity of fishes in the world for areas of similar size, is found in the Rupununi wetlands. These areas are also home to some of the world’s endangered giants – the Arapaima (largest freshwater fish), the giant river otter ( largest of the 13 otter species), the black caiman, giant river turtles, the harpy eagle ( largest bird of prey), the jaguar (largest cat in South America) and hundreds of other plants and animals.
Did you know? During a recent study of the Barima Mora passage, a total of 139 species were documented during the survey, of which 18 species are of conservation concern.
Here’s a few ways you can join in the efforts:
o Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly and opt for more organic remedies;
o Avoid concreting your yard so that groundwater can be recharged;
o Report illegal clearing of mangroves and other types of forests;
o Use laundry and dishwasher detergents that are phosphate-free. Since the water from most washing machines and dishwashers drains into water supplies, it can contaminate local wetlands. Avoid purchasing any detergents that contain phosphates because they encourage algae growth, which can suffocate local wildlife and destroy lakes and streams;
o Reduce pollution, especially solid waste by disposing of your waste in the right way; and
o Volunteer your time to wetland protection and learn more about the value of wetlands. If you have a free weekend, search online or call your local government to find out if any organizations are doing clean-up projects. Offer your assistance if you’re available, and help them by removing trash and waste from the wetlands to protect the wildlife and ecosystem.
Sources
https://www.worldwetlandsday.org/about
https://www.wikihow.com/Save-the-Wetlands
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