The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in Vietnam has recently released a report warning about the gradual shrinkage of wetlands globally due to unreasonable human impacts, including in Vietnam.
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Bau Sau Wetland (Cat Tien National Park) (Photo: nea.gov) |
According to the WWF report, if wetland areas continue to diminish, the resources and services provided by these freshwater systems will be incalculable in monetary terms.
To protect and sustainably develop wetlands, WWF advises policymakers and local communities to adopt appropriate behaviors towards this resource promptly.
According to the Department of Environmental Protection, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Vietnam has currently identified 68 economically valuable wetland areas that are crucial for sustainable habitat protection. These areas primarily serve as a source of freshwater supply and storage for local residents. However, these wetlands are gradually shrinking due to drought and are being over-exploited for unsustainable human uses.
The Department of Environmental Protection stated that Vietnam’s wetland system includes rivers, lakes, mangrove forests, tidal flats, and coastal bays, which are home to over 2,600 species of aquatic organisms. They play a vital role in regulating temperature, humidity, rainfall, and creating a favorable environment for the development of fisheries and forestry resources.
Scientists have calculated that 1 hectare of mangrove forest can reduce over 90 tons of CO2 per year for the habitat; 1 hectare of wetland in coastal areas, lagoons, and tidal flats can generate nearly $4,600 per year. These are enormous economic and environmental benefits for local communities if properly managed.
