“Empty” Lands: Wetlands, Power and Governance.

Across Europe, wetlands are among the ecosystems most threatened by human activity. They store carbon, support biodiversity and provide essential services to society. Yet protecting them is not simply a scientific or environmental challenge. It is a question of governance: who makes decisions about these ecosystems, whose interests shape those decisions, and who is responsible for preventing damage before it becomes irreversible? The documentary explores what happens when the value of wetlands is understood, the warnings are clear, and yet degradation continues. From the Mar Menor in Spain to restored wetlands in different parts of Europe, and to the Vjosa–Narta wetland in Albania, “Empty” Lands: Wetlands, Power and Governance follows scientists, local communities and decision-makers to examine the tensions between environmental protection, economic interests and the management of resources that belong to us all. Because when the consequences become visible, it may already be too late. And the political cost of prevention is often greater than the political cost of reacting to a crisis. REWET project - REstoration of WETlands to minimise emissions and maximise carbon uptake – a strategy for long term climate mitigation Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. Discover the stories behind REWET Open labs: • Austria:    • Zurück zum Rhythmus des Flusses: Der Weg d...   • Belgium:    • Gérard & Francis Paquay Nature Reserve: A ...   • Estonia:    • From black to green - Bringing back Wildli...   • Finland:    • Turpeen kerrostama ekosysteemi: Ylpässuo S...   • Italy:    • Rivoluzione ecologica sul Po: la Lanca di ...   • Netherlands:    • Herstel van laagveennatuur op voormalige l...   • Portugal:    • De lixeira a reserva natural - A admirável...   Discover more: Website: www.rewet-he.eu LinkedIn: REWET Twitter: @REWET_HE BlueSky: @rewet-he.bsky.social Instagram: @REWET_HE #Wetlands #NatureRestoration #Biodiversity #ClimateAction #EnvironmentalGovernance #WetlandRestoration #NatureRestorationLaw #HorizonEurope