Public Participation in Restoration and Sustainable Use of Wetland Ecosystem Services in India

Abstract

Ecosystem services include conditions and processes that make up natural ecosystems and the species present therein. According to recent studies, wetland ecosystems provide the maximum service value per area by playing a significant role in regulating and purifying water supplies, controlling flood, acting as carbon-sinks, and sustaining human lives and livelihoods. Challenges like wetland loss and degradation, declining freshwater resources, and probable consequences of climate change have attracted significant scientific and public attention towards wetland conservation and restoration. Despite diligent conservation efforts, the global status of wetland security is still alarming. Long-term sustainable management and use of wetlands necessitate active public participation from all sectors. This study reviews the current status of different wetlands in India. It also provides a detailed discussion of different aspects of economic evaluation of ecosystem services, wetland restoration, and public participation for improving wetland policies and governance.