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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - The Importance of Protecting Wetlands from Degradation

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Topic: The Importance of Protecting Wetlands from Degradation

Question: Some people believe that wetlands are not valuable ecosystems and should be replaced by more economically productive land uses. Discuss the importance of protecting wetlands from degradation, taking into account both environmental and human factors.

Model Answer:

The significance of preserving wetlands from degradation cannot be understated as these environments play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, supporting various forms of life, and providing essential services to humans. While some may argue that wetlands should be replaced by economically productive land uses, the long-term consequences of such actions would far outweigh any short-term benefits.

Firstly, wetlands serve as vital habitats for a diverse array of species, including birds, fish, amphibians, and plants. These ecosystems provide a unique set of environmental conditions that allow for the survival of numerous species that are not found elsewhere. For instance, wetland plants have adapted to thrive in saturated soils, which create an environment conducive to the breeding and nesting of many bird species. Additionally, wetlands act as nurseries for various fish species, contributing to the overall health and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. The degradation or loss of these habitats would lead to a significant decline in biodiversity, disrupting the delicate balance of ecosystems worldwide.

Secondly, wetlands play a critical role in maintaining water quality and reducing flood risks. These environments act as natural filters for water, trapping sediments, pollutants, and excess nutrients before they enter downstream bodies of water. This process not only improves the overall health of aquatic ecosystems but also benefits human populations that rely on these resources for drinking water, agriculture, and other uses. Furthermore, wetlands absorb and store large amounts of water during periods of heavy rainfall, which helps reduce flooding in adjacent areas. As a result, the degradation or loss of wetlands would negatively impact both ecosystem health and human well-being.

Lastly, wetlands offer essential services to humans through their role in mitigating climate change. These ecosystems act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing significant amounts of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Preserving wetlands is therefore an important part of global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. Losing these valuable carbon stores would exacerbate the impacts of climate change on both ecosystems and human societies.

In conclusion, protecting wetlands from degradation is essential for preserving biodiversity, maintaining water quality and reducing flood risks, and mitigating the effects of climate change. While there may be short-term economic benefits to replacing wetlands with other land uses, the long-term consequences would be far more damaging, both to the environment and to human societies. Therefore, it is crucial that we prioritize the conservation and restoration of these vital ecosystems for a sustainable future.

Overall Band Score: 8

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