wildlife
More than 40% of the worlds species live in wetlands which cover less than 1% of the surface (Wildlife Trusts, 2002). 75% of the human population lives in former wetlands and surrounding areas (Wildlife and Wetland Trust 2004).
Wetlands are often among the most naturally fertile habitats in the world (Scialabba, 1999). In the UK, the fishing industry is valued at billions of pounds per annum (Crooks et al, 2005).Wetlands are also crucial to global biogeochemical cycles and contribute to atmospheric stability of nitrogen, sulphur, carbon dioxide and methane (Crooks et al, 2005).
