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The ecological linkages between water, wetlands and forests represent the intricate interdependence of our ecosystems and our resources. Forests play a pivotal role in the hydrological cycle by affecting rates of transpiration and evaporation, and influencing how water is routed and stored in a watershed. This consequently plays a vital role in the preservation of our wetlands, which act as natural reservoirs and are extremely rich in terms of both biodiversity and the ecological services that they provide, for example, within the realms of agriculture, sanitation, and energy

Scientific evidence shows that climate change is likely to challenge the realization of sustainable development including the Millennium Development Goals. In particular, climate change is projected to reduce the livelihood assets of vulnerable people, especially those that are dependent on biodiversity and ecosystem services such as access to food, water and shelter. Climate change is also expected to have a negative impact on traditional coping mechanisms and food security5 thereby increasing the vulnerability of the world’s poor to famine and perturbations such as drought, flood and disease. Finally, the impacts of climate change on natural resources and labour productivity are likely to reduce economic growth, exacerbating poverty through reduced income opportunities.