A Conspectus CLIMATE CHANGE IN WETLANDS A Conspectus Dr Dipayan Dey; SAFE
Why Wetlands: Ecological Perspective Healthy wetlands help in Climate regulation & carbon cycling Absorption of toxins, heavy metals Flood control/erosion reduction Hosts Genetic and Biological diversity Provide a critical refuge and breeding ground for many species Maintain groundwater levels Play a large role in water purification (particularly in urban areas)
Why Wetlands: Socioeconomic Perspective Wetlands are important to society as subjects of scientific research educational initiatives recreational activities such as photography, bird watching and art. In terms of products, they are source of fish crops, vegetable & rice crops, medicinal plants and other organic products RESOURCE RECYCLING
Climate Change Impacts on wetlands " Any alterations of these regimes will influence biological, biogeochemical, and hydrological functions in wetland ecosystems, thereby affecting the socio-economic benefits of wetlands that are valued by humans." IPCC IPCC
Climate Change Impacts on wetlands 1 to 3.5 degree C change in Global Temperature
Carbon Sequestering in Wetlands
In Human Impacts... Fragmentation: Stops natural migrationFragmentation: Stops natural migration Contour Locking: Closing ecosystemsContour Locking: Closing ecosystems Change in LUP: Habitat lossChange in LUP: Habitat loss
Increased protection & defining boundariesIncreased protection & defining boundaries Removal of Stress factors like pollutionRemoval of Stress factors like pollution Sediment Diversion and de-siltingSediment Diversion and de-silting Linking migration corridors in wetlandsLinking migration corridors in wetlands Integral Species managementIntegral Species management Water regulate structure to control precipitation and evaporationWater regulate structure to control precipitation and evaporation