How does the coverage of wetlands relate to global carbon storage?

The coverage of wetlands is significant in relation to global carbon storage because wetlands act as vital carbon sinks. They have the unique ability to accumulate and store carbon in their vegetation and soil over long periods, mainly due to their anaerobic conditions, which slow down the decomposition of organic matter. As a result, wetlands are responsible for storing a substantial amount of carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.

Wetlands cover only a small percentage of the Earth's surface, yet they store a disproportionately large amount of carbon compared to other ecosystems. This means that preserving and restoring wetlands is critical for mitigating climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, making their role quite significant in global carbon dynamics. Therefore, the assertion that wetlands are significant in storing substantial carbon aligns well with the ecological understanding of their impact on carbon cycles.