Water-Related Ecosystems

Target 6.6: Protect and restore water-related ecosystems.

Importance of Wetlands

Wetlands, forests, and aquifers provide critical services such as natural water filtration, flood control, and groundwater recharge. They are the base of global water security.

  • Natural water purification habitats.
  • Biodiversity hotspots (fish-spawning, migratory birds).
  • Carbon sequestration and climate regulation.
Healthy Wetland Ecosystem
Figure 1: Thriving Wetlands - Nature's natural water filters.
Mountain Lake Biodiversity
Figure 2: Freshwater Lakes - Essential reservoirs of life.
Lush Forest Stream
Figure 3: Forest Watersheds - Protecting the source.

Pollution Threats

Human activities, primarily industrial discharge and agricultural runoff, contribute to the degradation of our freshwater sources. Plastics and chemical pollutants are increasingly present in groundwater.

"Every year, millions of tons of untreated wastewater are dumped into our oceans and rivers, leading to 'dead zones' where no aquatic life can survive."

Biodiversity Statistics

Rich Ecosystem Diversity
Figure 4: Global Biodiversity - Dependent on healthy waterways.
Ecosystem TypeLoss in Area (%)Species at Risk (%)
Wetlands35% Loss25% Endangered
Rivers & Aquifers20% Less Flow15% High Risk
Coastal Mangroves30% Loss30% Critically At-Risk
← Return Home