ADVERTORIAL Rand Water
Healthy wetlands, thriving communities
Observed on 2 February, World Wetlands Day( WWD) raises awareness about the importance of wetlands and inspire action to protect them. The theme for 2025,“ Protecting wetlands for our common future”, underscored the urgency of safeguarding these vital ecosystems for the well-being of current and future generations.
Wetlands cover just 2.4 % of South Africa’ s land area, but nearly half of the nation’ s native wetlands have been lost. Out of 791 wetland ecosystem types in South Africa, nearly half are critically endangered or under threat.
Urbanisation is a major driver of wetland loss, as the country’ s urban population continues to grow. By 2030, 71 % of South Africans will live in urban areas, and by 2050, that figure will rise to 80 %. This expansion increases demand for land for housing, infrastructure, and other services, leading to the degradation of natural areas like wetlands. Wetlands, being highly sensitive ecosystems, are especially vulnerable to these pressures.
Urban wetlands, which exist in or around cities, play crucial roles in water purification, flood mitigation, urban cooling, and maintaining biodiversity. They can be natural( rivers, lakes, marshes, etc.) or artificial( constructed ponds, stormwater treatment sites, etc.). These wetlands benefit urban areas by improving water quality, reducing flood risks, regulating local climates, and providing economic opportunities through fishing and the sale of wetland products. They also support local ecosystems and offer recreational and employment opportunities.
To help protect urban wetlands, individuals and communities can take several actions:
• Control pollution by preventing waste from entering wetlands.
• Support natural water flow and avoid disrupting wetland hydrology.
• Implement sustainable urban planning, avoiding construction near wetlands and using green infrastructure.
• Collaborate with local communities, scientists, and authorities to develop conservation strategies.
• Advocate for policies that protect wetlands and raise awareness about their value.
• Support the creation of additional wetland habitats, such as constructed wetlands for greywater treatment.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Only 11 % of South Africa’ s wetlands are protected, and more than 70 % remain unprotected. As water scarcity becomes an increasing concern, the need to conserve wetlands is critical. To learn more about how you can contribute to the conservation of wetlands, visit the Rand Water site at www. randwater. co. za and click on Water Wise Logo.
Be # RandWaterWaterWise
References: www. worldwetlandsday. org. www. sabuildingreview. co. za 181