Championing the wetlands of the UK

The UK’s wetlands are unique and valuable ecosystems that have an important role in mitigating climate change while offering flood protection. As you study GCSE geography you will encounter a range of topics linking to the precious wetlands of the UK. This article explains what they are and why they really matter. The back page of this issue of Wideworld goes on to explore the future of wetlands in the UK and what needs to be done to protect and restore them.

Michelle Minton

The RSPB coastal wetland nature reserve at Conwy, north Wales

The term ‘wetlands’ describes a range of ecosystems that are either permanently or seasonally saturated with water. In the UK, these wetland environments include lowland fens, upland bogs, reedbeds, coastal saltmarshes and mudflats. According to the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT), 75% of the UK’s wetlands have been destroyed over the last 300 years – but why does this matter?

Wetland environments are regularly overlooked as an appealing location for a day trip or walk, but they have plenty to offer. Wetlands contain a range of services that benefit people, the environment and wildlife alike.