Wetlands have several important ecological functions, including providing habitat for a diverse range of plant and animal species, serving as breeding and nesting grounds for many species, acting as a natural filter to improve water quality by trapping pollutants, storing and slowly releasing floodwaters to reduce the risk of flooding, and sequestering carbon to help mitigate climate change. Wetlands also support nutrient cycling, help to maintain biodiversity, and provide recreational and educational opportunities for people to connect with nature.