China's $13.8bn wetland restoration yields $434bn in ecosystem value

China invested up to $13.8 billion in coastal wetland restoration between 2000 and 2020, generating ecosystem benefits valued at as much as $434 billion. Mangrove restoration emerged as the most cost-effective initiative, delivering a benefit-cost ratio of 47 to 1. The restored wetlands provide critical services including carbon sequestration and protection of coastlines. Researchers say the findings underscore wetland restoration as a powerful nature-based strategy for addressing climate change.