How does pressure for coastal development affect wetlands?

The pressure for coastal development significantly impacts wetlands, primarily leading to their destruction and loss. Wetlands are often viewed as prime areas for development because of their location near coastlines, providing opportunities for commercial and residential construction. This pressure for development can result in draining, filling, or otherwise altering wetland areas to make way for new projects.

Wetlands play a crucial role in the ecosystem by serving as natural filters for water, providing habitat for wildlife, and acting as buffers against storms and flooding. As coastal development occurs, these important functions of wetlands can be severely compromised, leading to negative environmental consequences, such as increased flooding, loss of biodiversity, and reduced water quality.

The other choices suggest outcomes that are generally contrary to the realities of development pressures on wetlands. For instance, the idea that development promotes restoration or enhances ecological functions does not align with the standard practices observed in coastal areas under development pressure, where the natural landscape is frequently altered or destroyed rather than improved. Therefore, recognizing the impact of development on wetlands is essential for understanding the balance between growth and environmental conservation.