Wetlands cover 6% of the planet’s surface. Beneath their still waters lies a powerful natural system where plants and microorganisms work slowly to filter water and break down pollutants. These marshes are essential for water regeneration and purification. They act like sponges, regulating the flow of water—absorbing it during the wet season and releasing it in the dry season.
In our pursuit of land, we claimed these areas for grazing livestock, agriculture, and building homes. Over the past century, we have drained half of the world’s wetlands. We did not understand their richness or their role.
Everything is alive, everything is connected—water, air, soil, trees. The magic of the world unfolds before our eyes.

Excerpt from the film Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand
Co-written with Isabelle Delannoy and Tewfik Fares
With the kind permission of the GoodPlanet Foundation
© 2009 Europacorp - Elzevir Films

Marshes—Water’s Hidden Treasures

Ponds and marshes are true water treasures. Like giant sponges, they soak up rainwater and release it when the land is thirsty. Beneath their still waters, an incredible factory works in secret—plants and tiny creatures patiently clean the water, drop by drop.
Long ago, people didn’t realize how precious these places were. They drained half of the marshes to build cities and farms.
Today, we understand their importance. Everything is alive, everything is connected—water, air, soil, trees… Nature knows exactly what to do. All we have to do is open our eyes and see its magic.

© Couleurs Grands Lacs – Text | © Armand Amar – Music