by 570 Experts
More than 570 Experts from 97 Countries Urge United Nations to Strengthen Freshwater Biodiversity Protections
Humanity Faces Catastrophic Losses of Aquatic Species and Habitats
World leaders must prioritize urgent and targeted actions to protect and restore freshwater ecosystems and respect the rights of indigenous and marginalised communities disproportionately affected by these losses
It is often said that water is life. Our rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands are teeming with an amazing array of aquatic life. Covering less than 1% of the Earth’s surface, freshwater ecosystems are home to more than 10% of all species, and they are also vital to terrestrial and ocean life. However, we have managed freshwater systems primarily to provide for human needs, resulting in highly manipulated and degraded aquatic systems. We have dammed and diverted rivers, filled and converted wetlands, eroded shorelines, polluted water, over-harvested freshwater fish and waterfowl, and introduced invasive species.