Creating and preserving a wetland

What is a wetland? Article L.211-1 of the French Environmental Code gives the legal definition of wetlands: “Wetlands are defined as land, whether or not exploited, that is usually flooded or waterlogged with fresh, salt or brackish water, permanently or temporarily, or whose vegetation, where it exists, is dominated by hygrophilous plants for at least part of the year.” Wetlands take various forms, including marshes, peat bogs, mangroves, estuaries, lakes, ponds, rivers, swamps, wet meadows and floodable coastal areas. They can be located in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Why have a wetland? Creating a wetland in a green space offers many ecological, aesthetic and functional benefits: - Increased biodiversity: Wetlands shelter an exceptionally rich biodiversity. They provide a vital habitat for many species of plants, insects, amphibians, birds and other animals. Integrating a wetland into a green space can increase biological diversity. - Water filtration: Wetland plants, such as reeds and rushes, act as natural filters. They help purify water by retaining suspended particles and absorbing certain pollutants. This can help improve water quality in the environment. - Aesthetics and tranquillity: Wetlands add an aesthetic dimension to a green space. The reflections of the water, the variety of plants and the presence of animals help create a peaceful and attractive environment. - Attracting wildlife: such as birds, dragonflies, frogs and other animals. - Reduced soil erosion: The dense vegetation of wetlands helps stabilise soils and reduce erosion. This can be particularly beneficial in green spaces prone to erosion. - Natural cooling: The evaporation of water in a wetland can help lower the ambient temperature, thus providing a natural form of air conditioning.

Sector:

France