Enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem services in small urban wetlands for sustainable cities

Urban wetlands, particularly small ones, play a vital role in enhancing city livability and sustainability by supporting essential biodiversity and ecosystem services. However, they are often overlooked in conservation and restoration efforts and are increasingly threatened by both natural and anthropogenic stressors worldwide. This paper highlights recent advances in our understanding of small urban wetlands, including their definition, unique biodiversity, and diverse ecological functions. We then examine the challenges these wetlands face due to intensifying climate change and human activities, such as urbanization, environmental pollution, and resource overexploitation. To address these challenges, we propose a set of strategies to enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services, including improving wetland networks and hydrological connectivity, promoting the rewilding of wetlands, and adopting nature-based solutions. This work can guide decision-makers, urban planners, and researchers in integrating socio-economic development with the design, conservation, and management of small urban wetlands, advancing sustainable urban development and human well-being.