North American Wetlands

As per U.S. EPA estimates, every year in the U.S, 1.2 trillion gallons of sewage from households, industries, and restaurants is dumped into U.S. waterways. Urbanization, agriculture, and sewage discharge are major contributors in the loss and degradation of North American wetlands, resulting in an increasing amount of pollutants in the waterways. A wetland is an area of land where the surface is partially or entirely covered by water, and is especially important in maintaining an ecological balance. Despite the benefits they bring, wetlands are dwindling and need to be protected. Osmond, D.L!!!
One major factor leading to wetland destruction is urbanization. The ever-growing human population has resulted in major urbanization and industrialization
Wastewater and stormwater cause the release of metals into the water supply, resulting in toxicity. Many of these metals, iron and magnesium in specific, can reach toxic concentrations that result in a loss of nutrient uptake in aquatic vegetation. Over time, heavy metals saturate wetlands and are consumed by wildlife, causing deformities, cancers, and even death in both aquatic and terrestrial animals. Stormwater leads to algal blooms, which deplete oxygen levels in the water. Some of the algae produced is toxic to aquatic organisms. An abundance of algae can shelter other aquatic plants, preventing them from proper sunlight and limiting photosynthetic capabilities. Osmond, D.L.!!! Because wetlands have low property value, nearby land may be bought and used for landfill construction. This construction can alter the hydrology of the wetland. The waste products of landfills, leachate, ammonium, iron, and manganese become toxic to plant and animal life in large amounts. There is also a large chance for hazardous wastes from households to be present, in addition to sewage sludge and industrial waste. The improper regulation of disposal facilities leave room where contamination may occur. Osmond,
They are essential to the ecology of the watershed by providing the necessary elements for global water cycles to take place. Wetlands hold the minerals and organic matter necessary to support the lives of microorganisms and invertebrates. These organisms represent one of the lowest tiers of the food web and serve as food for species of fish, amphibians, and insects. The web continues with birds and mammals, who rely on the watershed for food supply and shelter. This is especially important during migration cycles and breeding months. Palaima, Arnas!!!
Perhaps most importantly, wetlands act as living filters, naturally removing dangerous toxins from drinking water. They are able to absorb and remove pollutants that treatment plants may be inefficient in removing. This process occurs because of the physical, chemical, and biological processes that take place in aquatic plants. Specifically, there is the ability of the plant to translocate oxygen to its roots and the surrounding water. Water plants are also able to destroy pathogenic organisms that can have negative health effects on the human body. Russo, R. E.