Driving wetlands education

On Wetlands Day, the Young Water Professionals Limpopo Chapter partnered with Lepelle Northern Water and visited a local wetland to witness the devastating effects of pollution in the area.

By Mariah Malatji, chairperson, YWP Limpopo

Wetlands are some of the most productive ecosystems on earth, playing a vital role in the water cycle and providing a wide range of benefits to humans and wildlife. However, they are increasingly under threat due to pollution, habitat loss, and other human activities.

Defined as areas where water covers the soil or is present at or near the surface of the soil for all or part of the year, wetlands can be found in a variety of settings – from coastal estuaries and salt marshes to inland freshwater swamps and bogs.

They provide numerous benefits to humans and the environment, including water purification, flood control, carbon sequestration and habitat for wildlife. Unfortunately, wetlands are also highly vulnerable to pollution, which can have a significant impact on the health of these ecosystems.

Polluted water can alter the balance of nutrients, reduce oxygen levels and create toxic conditions for aquatic life. In addition, pollution can destroy wetland vegetation and harm the surrounding habitats.

Wetland visit

The YWP Limpopo Chapter was motivated to visit a local wetland due to the high levels of pollution in the area. This was used as an opportunity to raise awareness about wetlands and their importance, especially in the face of increasing pollution.

During the visit, community members were shocked to see the extent of pollution in the area. The author addressed the need for wetland action orientation activities so that we become the change we want to see in our environment.

There are plans to create wetlands-cleaning awareness in communities and encourage protection and restoration, emphasising the impact of wetlands on water quality and the surrounding environment.

It is important that there are sustainable practices that can help reduce pollution and protect wetland ecosystems – preserving these valuable resources for future generations.