Aquatic ecosystems currently face significant challenges that affect their natural balance and the diversity of organisms that inhabit them. The proliferation of invasive species, water pollution and poor waste management These are factors that threaten both fauna and flora, and impact the economy and quality of life of nearby communities.
Despite these challenges, initiatives are emerging in various corners of the world that seek Reverse environmental degradation, turn problems into opportunities, and strengthen social awareness towards the crucial importance of maintaining the health of rivers, lagoons and seas.
Invasive aquatic plants and their effects on ecosystems
The uncontrolled spread of invasive aquatic plants can have devastating consequences. A clear example is the case of water lily (Eichhornia crassipes), a species from the Amazon, which after being introduced into lakes and rivers in Mexico was able to multiply its presence in just a few days. This plant, although it appears to be simply ornamental, clogs canals, decreases oxygen levels in the water and represents a real threat to local biodiversity, affecting both fishing and other economic activities linked to water.
For its part, the Hydrilla verticillata, another invasive plant detected in the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta in Colombia, has been identified as a factor that dramatically reduces dissolved oxygen levels, generating a particularly negative impact in areas with high levels of organic pollution. These species alter natural cycles, causing physical and chemical changes. in the ecosystem, and can promote the disappearance of native species.
Impact of pollution and inadequate waste management
La pollution of fresh and coastal waters It is another of the major threats to aquatic biodiversity. In Pichicuy Bay, for example, the filtration of industrial tailings into rivers and streams has introduced heavy metals and harmful compounds such as arsenic, lead, copper, and others, with the consequent threat to both wildlife and human health. discharges of untreated wastewater and poor solid waste management In regions such as Nueva Venecia, they also generate a high organic load, causing the loss of the natural self-purification capacity of water bodies and increasing the risks for communities dependent on these ecosystems.
This type of pollution, combined with the presence of invasive species, multiplies environmental and social problems. Oxygen deficiency and the presence of pollutants directly affect the reproduction and survival of many species., impoverishing the biological wealth of these habitats.
Innovation and sustainable use as a response
Faced with the seriousness of the situation, alternatives have emerged that seek Give a second life to plant waste and transform threats into opportunitiesIn the Tecocomulco lagoon (Mexico), researchers have used the water lily to develop a substrate for the cultivation of edible mushrooms of the genus PleurotusThis process not only helps to clean the bodies of water, but also promotes the circular economy and generates new job and local development opportunities.
By using the remains of water lily instead of incinerating or abandoning them, not only a biotechnological benefit is achieved, but also a positive environmental impactSimilar initiatives can be extended to other affected areas, involving the local population in developing practical and viable solutions.
Community engagement and restoration programs
Projects such as the Community Environmental Monitoring Program in the Lower Urubamba have demonstrated the effectiveness of involving communities themselves in the monitoring and conservation of their aquatic resources. These types of models integrate technical training with local knowledge. facilitating the monitoring of environmental impacts and promoting co-responsibility.
Highlights include:
- La mechanical cleaning from areas particularly affected by invasive plants.
- Creating training and awareness-raising spaces for children, youth and adults on recycling, waste management and the importance of aquatic biodiversity.
- The implementation of working groups and joint committees between authorities, experts and residents to agree on recovery strategies and follow-up on commitments.
This combination of science, education, and citizen participation contributes to strengthening collective commitment and the long-term sustainability of interventions.
Furthermore, experts emphasize the value of preserving natural elements as characteristic as the Posidonia oceanica meadows in the Mediterranean Sea. Their presence on beaches, far from being a nuisance, is key to preventing erosion and maintaining biological and landscape diversity. Numerous associations and scientists advocate for management policies that prioritize conservation and social awareness over simply eliminating these plant remains.
The role of collaboration and sustainable financing
Joint work between administrations, communities, scientists and companies is essential for the success of any strategy. In this sense, the issuance of blue bonds This represents a significant innovation: these financial instruments allow for the raising of funds specifically for projects that promote the protection of aquatic biodiversity and marine ecosystems, such as the treatment and reuse of wastewater, habitat restoration, or the promotion of sustainable economic activities such as responsible tourism or mariculture.
Adopting innovative and sustainable solutions is increasingly urgent, and models that involve all social actors and facilitate access to resources and technical training are likely to be the most effective.
Aquatic biodiversity is going through a difficult time, influenced by both environmental pressures and human action. However, recent experiences show that, with creativity, collaboration, and commitment, it is possible to reverse damage, restore ecosystems, and ensure that rivers, lakes, seas, and lagoons continue to be spaces full of life and richness for future generations.