Wetlands are in crisis with 90% degraded, can we save them?
Gekco invites the community to join them in their fight to preserve wetlands in Kyalami on World Wetland Day.
Wetlands, the unsung heroes of the ecosystem, are facing an unprecedented crisis worldwide.
With nearly 90% of the world’s wetlands being degraded since the 1700s, the consequences for biodiversity, climate regulation, and freshwater supplies are dire.
The theme for World Wetland Day 2025, ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future,’ serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action.
Also read: Conservation of our wetlands should be a joint responsibility
In celebration of this global event, the non-profit organisation Greater Kyalami Conservancy (Gekco) will host a wetland walk and talk, offering a unique opportunity to explore and learn about the vital importance of these ecosystems.
The chairperson of Gecko Kristin Kallesen said Kyalami was unique in that it had an abundance of wetlands and this was what inspired the organisation to host the wetland walk and talk event. She invited the community to join them on February 8 at Cluny Farm.
“Over the years, we are seeing less wildlife in these wetlands due to several impacts,” she said. “We hope that participants come away with an understanding of how interesting and important wetlands are, not only for wildlife but for humanity as wetlands benefit us all.”
Kallesen explained that wetlands were vital as they acted as a sponge absorbing stormwater which prevented flooding.
“This helps prevent erosion and makes water available to us throughout the year. They also reduce carbon in the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change. We are more dependent on wetlands than we realise.”
Also read: Wetland workshop prepares scouts for earning badges
The event will feature a guided walk with wetland specialist Retief Grobler who will educate participants about the biodiversity and wildlife that inhabit this wetland, such as the giant bullfrog and African grass owl.
“Both are heavily impacted by humans and are rarely seen. Retief will take us on a walk to understand wetlands better and the unique habitat they provide. Gekco actively engages with property owners and developers to help them understand the importance of wetlands. We also monitor the endangered species found here.
“People can get involved by attending our clean-up and educational events and signing up as members. We keep people informed of threats this area is facing. We all must ensure we have a sustainable environment now and in the future.”
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