Question

Newly developed community services, such as schools, shopping malls, and hospitals, often include the development of a new wetland area. What is an environmental purpose for this wetland area?

A. To attract non-native species of fish and birds to the area to decrease biodiversity
B. To provide a source of drinking water to the new homes built in the surrounding area
C. To act as a property barrier between one community service area and other development
D. To store surface runoff and filter out pollutants before they reach the groundwater source

Answer 1

Option D.

The environmental purpose of developing new wetland areas in community services is to store surface runoff and filter out pollutants to protect the groundwater source. Wetlands also provide habitats that contribute to biodiversity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The environmental purpose of developing new wetland areas in conjunction with new community services like schools, shopping malls, and hospitals is primarily to enhance ecosystem services.

Wetlands play several critical roles, including acting as natural water filters and buffers against flooding by storing surface runoff.

The water stored in wetlands is gradually released, and during this process, wetlands filter out pollutants and excess nutrients, which helps in maintaining the quality of the groundwater source.

Furthermore, they provide essential habitats for a diverse range of species, thereby contributing to increased biodiversity.

The correct option that addresses the question about the environmental purpose of the wetland area is Option D: To store surface runoff and filter out pollutants before they reach the groundwater source.

This option is in line with the understanding that wetlands serve to protect water quality and support a wealth of plant and animal life, thus making them integral to environmental conservation strategies.