What the world needs now to fight climate change: More swamps

“Drain the swamp” has long meant getting rid of something distasteful. Actually, the world needs more swamps – and bogsfensmarshes and other types of wetlands.

These are some of the most diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth. They also are underrated but irreplaceable tools for slowing the pace of climate change and protecting our communities from storms and flooding.

Scientists widely recognize that wetlands are extremely efficient at pulling carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and converting it into living plants and carbon-rich soil. As part of a transdisciplinary team of nine wetland and climate scientists, we published a paper earlier this year that documents the multiple climate benefits provided by all types of wetlands, and their need for protection.

https://theconversation.com/what-the-world-needs-now-to-fight-climate-change-more-swamps-99198