May is National Wetlands month! Why does that matter? Because wetlands are tremendously important and among the most productive ecosystems in the universe — okay, maybe not the universe, but the planet — holding the space for a wide variety species to make their debut — birds, fish, reptiles, mammals, flora, fauna, and more. Without this womb-like place, a veritable biological superstore for species to gain traction in the world, the planet would be much less diverse. Wetlands benefit people by removing contaminants and improving water quality, producing products for the economy, providing a residence for threatened and endangered habitat, and acting as a natural sponge for flood waters, thereby providing flood protection.
In honor of National Wetlands Month, we’re focusing once again on the East Kolkata wetlands in West Bengal, India, a diverse ecosystem that not only manages the waste stream of a city of approximately five million naturally, but provides fresh food, aquaculture, and jobs for the local economy. Please enjoy this movie from the Society for Creative Opportunities and Participatory Ecosystems to learn more about this magnificent enterprise.
If you feel that wetlands are as important to society as say, air, then follow the link below to donate to the maintenance an ongoing care of these particular wetlands because wetlands, even ones halfway across the world, benefit everyone.