World Wetlands Day 2020: Why Our Wetlands in Trinidad and Tobago Are Worth Protecting

Our wetlands in Trinidad and Tobago are important in so many ways. Not only do our wetlands provide an essential part to our ecosystem but it provides us with storm protection, carbon absorption, clean water, and it provides many of our citizens with essential livelihoods through tourism, recreation and even as a food resource.

Our wetlands are an essential part to the wider ecosystem here in Trinidad and Tobago and that's why three of our larger wetland areas, The Caroni Swamp, The Nariva Swamp and The Buccoo Reef Bon Accord Lagoon Complex are recognized for their importance through their designation as Ramsar sites.

Wetlands protect our shores from wave action and therefore protects us from coastal erosion, they reduce the impacts of floods, absorb pollutants and it provides a habitat for animals and plants as it contains a wide range of flora and fauna that are found nowhere else on the islands. One of the most important impacts of this is that wetlands often form nurseries and protected areas for fish to breed and spawn and give the fish essential time to develop and grow before going back out into open oceans and replenishing the stocks of fish.

World Wetland Day also provides another benefit of wetlands by offering an opportunity of education by highlighting the importance and necessity of wetlands and that's why today everyone should make a special effort to head out and visit our own wetland areas to enjoy the serenity of nature and experience the wonder of the plants and animals that call the wetlands their home. Happy World Wetlands Day Trinidad and Tobago!