Wetland loss could cost $39T in benefits globally by 2050 Report urges major investment as ecosystem decline accelerates16 July 2025 16 July 2025 2 minute read 2 minute read By: By: Global Ag Media EuropeThe global destruction of wetlands, which support fisheries, agriculture and flood control, may mean the loss of $39 trillion in economic benefits by 2050, Reuters reported, citing a report by the Convention on Wetlands released on Tuesday. "The scale of loss and degradation is beyond what we can afford to ignore," said Hugh Robertson, the lead author of the report. Wetlands' economic benefits include flood regulation, water purification and carbon storage - key as water levels rise and tropical storms and hurricanes intensify due to climate change. They also support the fishery and agriculture industries and offer cultural benefits. Wetland deterioration is particularly acute in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, but is worsening in Europe and North America, the report said.