What is the primary concern with using wetlands for landfilling?

The primary concern with using wetlands for landfilling is environmental damage. Wetlands play a crucial role in the ecosystem by providing habitat for wildlife, improving water quality, and acting as natural buffers against flooding. When wetlands are disturbed or filled in, it can lead to the loss of biodiversity, habitat destruction, and disruption of natural water flow. Additionally, landfilling in these areas can release contaminants into the surrounding environment, affecting both wildlife and human populations. Wetlands are often protected by regulations due to their ecological importance, making environmental damage the most significant issue when considering their use for landfill purposes.

While legal restrictions may complicate the process, and costs could potentially increase when dealing with these sensitive areas, the fundamental consequence is the immediate and long-lasting impact on the environment. Soil erosion and high costs can be concerns in their own right but are secondary to the overarching issue of potential and widespread ecological harm caused by landfilling in wetlands.