Wetlands are one of the most valuable and, at the same time, most threatened ecosystems. These environments act as true natural sponges, absorbing excess water during periods of heavy rainfall and releasing it during droughts, which helps prevent floods and recharge underground aquifers. Additionally, their vegetation and microorganisms filter and purify the water, improving its quality for both wildlife and nearby human populations. Well-preserved wetlands also capture and store large amounts of carbon dioxide, contributing to mitigating climate change. They are a refuge for an enormous diversity of species: it is estimated that 40% of known species live or reproduce in wetlands, including migratory birds, fish, amphibians, and aquatic plants. They provide natural resources such as quality water, food, and materials, and support sustainable economic activities such as fishing, traditional agriculture, nature tourism, and environmental education.
However, Spanish wetlands are in a critical situation. Of the 2,000 wetlands in Spain, around 40% are damaged by illegal wells, excess nitrates from fertilizers, or mining deposits. More than 80% are in decline, more than 60% of their surface area has been lost since the 18th century, and only 13% are in good conservation status. Among the main threats is intensive agriculture, which requires large volumes of water for irrigation and causes the overexploitation of aquifers, lowering the water table and drying up lagoons and marshes. The massive use of fertilizers and agrochemicals contaminates surface and groundwater, triggering eutrophication processes and biodiversity loss. Many wetlands have been drained or transformed into agricultural land, which directly results in the loss of these ecosystems. Urban development and the conversion of traditional dryland crops to intensive irrigation have increased pressure on water resources and accelerated the degradation of these wetlands. Additionally, draining wetlands for agricultural use releases large amounts of carbon stored in the soil, contributing to climate change and losing their capacity to act as carbon sinks.
Las Tablas de Daimiel is a characteristic example of the situation these ecosystems face. The intensification and irrigation of vineyards, olive groves, and other crops in the area have drastically reduced the flooded surface, worsening drought and the risk of peat fires. When we recorded the images accompanying this text in May 2025, the flooded surface exceeded 600 hectares, and we found the lagoons in all their splendor, showing a mirage of the reality of water scarcity that this wetland usually endures. The overexploitation of the aquifer, despite being a protected area under the designation of National Park, limits the wetland’s capacity to regenerate naturally. Despite conservation efforts, pressure on water resources and pollution remain its main afflictions. The situation of the national parks of Las Tablas de Daimiel, Doñana, and other Spanish wetlands with fewer protection figures reminds us that the conservation of these ecosystems is not only an environmental issue but also a social and economic one.
Protecting them means, in addition to conserving a landscape and an essential ecosystem, ensuring clean water, regulating the climate, preserving biodiversity, and maintaining traditional activities that generate wealth and employment. The future of wetlands depends on responsible water management, avoiding large hydraulic works, and applying complementary measures based on the restoration and reestablishment of wetlands, reducing agricultural pressure, and involving the whole society in their conservation. Caring for wetlands is caring for the life they harbor, and their protection is key to maintaining the natural environment and the benefits they provide.
Ernesto Cardoso
| Season 7. Chapter 12 | Parque Nacional de las Tablas de Daimiel |
| Recording date | May 2025 |
| Duration | 2:42 minutes |
| Date of issue | June 5, 2005 |
| Location | Daimiel, Ciudad Real, Castilla la Mancha. España |
| Image and sound | Ernesto Cardoso |
| Edition | Ernesto Cardoso |
| Opusculum | Ernesto Cardoso |
| Musica | Pixabay |
| Song | Majestic Inspiring Atmosphere |
| Locution | Ernesto Cardoso |
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