Corporate Social Review Magazine 1st Quarter 2012 | Page 55

ENVIRONMENT
Continuing “business as usual” is not an option!
Words by Theresa-Lütge Smith

Wetland preservation in South Africa is enjoying unprecedented support from various sectors that are ‘on
the same page’ so to speak, with regard to propagating
important offshoots to safeguard our natural ecological
environment. While the main consensus seems focused
on benefits such as economic opportunities, job creation
and tourism, it is perhaps more important for our nation
to grasp the natural purpose of a wetland.

A

wetland is the natural habitat for many living
animal species and indigenous vegetation. It is
also a vital part of the system that brings us
the fresh water we drink; our purest drinking water
comes from the aquifers and groundwater beneath
the earth. In wetlands some of this pure drinking wa-

ter comes to the surface. Wetlands also provide fish,
reed or building material and peat for fuel. They are
also a significant deterrent to flooding and drought,
absorb water during wet periods and release water
during dry periods. Wetlands can be found from the
tops of mountains right down to the ocean. Many peoGraeme Williams, MediaClubSouthAfrica.com

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CORPORATE SOCIAL REVIEW