Mapping of the distribution of ecosystem services in the Ebro Delta

Coastal wetlands are rich and dynamic ecosystems that provide a variety of essential ecosystem services. They act as natural filters, improving water quality by retaining sediments, nutrients, and contaminants, which contributes to water quality regulation. They also protect the coast against flooding, buffering the impact of waves during storms and minimizing coastal erosion risks. Additionally, they are important carbon sinks, helping to mitigate climate change by storing large amounts of carbon in their sediments and vegetation. Coastal wetlands provide unique habitats for numerous species of flora and fauna, including many that are endemic or endangered. The Ebro Delta, located on Spain's Mediterranean coast, is one of the largest and most biodiverse wetlands in Europe, offering numerous ecosystem services beyond those already mentioned. This region is a productive agricultural area, known for its high-quality rice. Furthermore, its coastal waters are rich in fish and shellfish, providing an important source of food and employment for local communities. However, the Ebro Delta faces significant challenges due to human activities, such as the regulation of the Ebro River, and climate change, with large floods associated with storms that have caused the loss of extensive areas of its coastline. These conditions underscore the need for conservation and sustainable management strategies to preserve its valuable ecosystem services. The purpose of this work is to establish a detailed cartography of the distribution of ecosystem services and their role in the natural system of the delta, as a crucial tool to address effective conservation and management strategies appropriate to the delta space. Additionally, there should be an emphasis on educational efforts to gain the support of the delta's inhabitants and their involvement in the management of its resources.