Characteristics of Wetland Resources and Ecological Safety in China

As an important natural resource, wetland is of special features. It is one of important land resources and has undergone land reclamation in many areas over the years. Wetlands are particular rich in water resources, which are important water sources zones and surface water storage areas. Wetlands are also rich in plants and animal resources, which is one of the richest biodiversity regions in the world. China's wetland resources characterized in the limited area, regional features, systematic features and functions in watershed. At present, there are about (6 940)×10~4hm~2 wetlands in China, accounting for 10% of wetlands in the world, and has become the largest one in Asia, and the forth one in the world. Among these wetlands, the natural wetland is about (2 940)×10~4hm~2, including (1 680)×10~4hm~2 marshes, 910×10~4hm~2 lakes, 80×10~4hm~2 mudflats and 270×10~4hm~2 sallow water area. The artificial wetland is about (4 000)×10~4hm~2, including 200×10~4hm~2 reservoirs and (3 800)×10~4hm~2 paddy fields. These wetlands have regional differences in area and types, and also have integrity in spatial distribution and functions. Therefore, nine wetland zones were classifies in China based on these features. Wetland also plays an important role in keeping regional equilibrium and environmental functions. Wetland resources are important basis for human beings, and loss of wetlands will threaten regional environmental quality and social-economic sustainable development. Using ecological footprint methodology, wetland resources situation and their safety in case study areas were evaluated. Results show that with the safety becoming decreasing, the ecological deficit has occurred. These situations will have serious affects on regional health and sustainable development.