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State of the World’s Saltmarshes

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This first State of the World’s Saltmarshes report integrates saltmarshes into the broader blue carbon agenda – putting them at the heart of global efforts to tackle climate change, restore nature and build coastal resilience.

Published as part of WWF’s partnership with Sky, it shows just how powerful these tidal wetlands are. From carbon sequestration to natural flood defence to fisheries support, saltmarshes are doing heavy lifting with little recognition. This report shines a light on what we have lost and continue to lose, where the biggest opportunities lie and what needs to change. It also looks at the political tools and funding mechanisms that can turn things around — if we act now.

The report was produced in collaboration with Blue Marine Foundation, UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, and UN Climate Change High Level Champions.

WWF and Sky have been working in partnership since 2009 to support conservation projects in the UK and around the world, as well as raising awareness about the climate and nature crisis and inspiring public action.

This report draws on the knowledge of nearly 100 researchers and practitioners from over 30 countries.

Wetlands International and the Conservation Evidence Group at the University of Cambridge contributed to Section 4: Scaling Solutions, which draws heavily on our landmark publication Restoration, Creation and Management of Salt Marshes and Tidal Flats. This section outlines how evidence-based practices can drive saltmarsh restoration globally.

Download the Report here.

State of the World’s Saltmarshes