The Vital Role of Freshwater Ecosystems for People and the Planet
Freshwater ecosystems, including rivers, lakes, wetlands, and streams, are among the most critical natural resources on Earth. Despite covering only about 1% of the planet’s surface, these ecosystems play an outsized role in sustaining life, supporting both human populations and biodiversity.
For people, freshwater ecosystems are a primary source of clean drinking water, essential for health and survival. They provide water for agriculture, which accounts for about 70% of global freshwater withdrawals, ensuring food security for billions. Moreover, they support industries like fishing, which directly impacts the livelihoods of millions. The economies of many regions, particularly in developing countries, depend heavily on healthy freshwater ecosystems. Beyond tangible resources, these systems also contribute to energy production through hydropower, providing renewable energy to millions globally.
On a broader scale, freshwater ecosystems are integral to planetary health. They house around 10% of all known species, including fish, amphibians, birds, and mammals, making them biodiversity hotspots. Wetlands, in particular, act as natural filters, purifying water by removing pollutants and excess nutrients. They also regulate the water cycle, helping to mitigate floods by absorbing excess rainfall and replenishing groundwater supplies during droughts. Furthermore, freshwater ecosystems play a significant role in carbon sequestration, storing carbon and helping to regulate global climate patterns.
However, these ecosystems face increasing threats from pollution, climate change, and unsustainable water use. The degradation of freshwater habitats not only jeopardizes biodiversity but also disrupts human societies that rely on these essential resources. Protecting freshwater ecosystems is thus vital for both the health of the planet and the well-being of current and future generations.