Maui Wetlands Offer Climate Resilience Amid Rising Threats
• Maui's wetlands, such as those in the Waiheʻe Refuge, are emerging as critical components of Hawaiʻi's climate resilience strategy.
• These ecosystems can store up to five times more carbon than forests, protect coral reefs from runoff, and absorb floodwaters during storms.
• However, they are under threat from climate change and human activities, with Oʻahu having lost over half of its wetlands in the past century.
Why It's Important?
The loss of wetlands poses significant risks to Hawaiʻi's biodiversity, carbon storage capacity, and shoreline protection. Without restoration and protection, these ecosystems could fail to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as increased flooding and sediment runoff. The vulnerability of wetlands to tsunamis and storms further underscores the need for proactive measures. The Hawaiʻi Land Trust's work highlights the importance of integrating ecological restoration with climate adaptation strategies to safeguard these vital ecosystems.
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