Wetlands plays vital role in WC ecosystem

WETLANDS are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth.

- STAFF REPORTER

It is for this reason that the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEA&DP) joined the global community in commemorating World Wetlands Day which is observed annually on February 2, to raise awareness of the critical role wetlands play in sustaining ecosystems, supporting livelihoods, and strengthening climate resilience.

In the Western Cape, wetlands provide essential services such as water purification, slowing and absorbing flood waters, groundwater recharge, carbon storage, and habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species.

Despite their importance, wetlands remain one of the most threatened ecosystems, largely due to development pressures, invasive alien species, pollution, and climate change.

The province is home to a diverse range of wetlands, from estuaries, floodplains and rivers to peatlands and seasonal pans. These ecosystems are particularly vital in a water-scarce province, where climate variability and prolonged droughts have underscored the need to protect our natural ecological infrastructure that supports water security and climate resilience.