The **Albufera Natural Park** is one of the most important ecosystems in Spain, this area was one of the most affected by the [catastrophic floods in Valencia](https://noticiasambientales.com/medio-ambiente/mas-50-muertos-dejan-las-inundaciones-en-espana-segun-el-informan-los-servicios-de-emergencia/). Two weeks after the disaster, a large part of the Albufera, where the extensive freshwater lagoon, dunes, and beaches are located, continues to suffer serious damage. In fact, **several areas are still flooded**.
The freshwater lagoon in this park is the largest in Spain, as it **covers more than 2,800 hectares and is home to up to 300 bird species, surrounded by marshes and rice fields**. After the floods, this place suffered the consequences of millions of kilos of waste contaminating this wetland, to the point that even bodies were found in the area. For this reason, search operations continue, especially along the beaches, still full of debris.
## An ecosystem key for both fauna and people
Considered a Ramsar International Importance Wetland and a Special Protection Area for Birds since 1994, **this park is essential for the biodiversity and ecosystem services it provides**. “These ecosystems not only benefit nature and fauna, but also provide essential services,” stated Romo.
On the other hand, it is worth mentioning **its wetlands and their ability to retain water**, as they act as natural reserves and can reduce the intensity of floods. However, these were the worst that the Park had to endure. In 1992, there were [other floods in the south](https://noticiasambientales.com/medio-ambiente/espana-de-luto-por-la-peor-dana-del-siglo), but with fewer damages.
“Inundations are part of the natural regime of these wetlands,” explained Carles Sanchís Ibor, president of the governing council of the Natural Park and academic at the Polytechnic University of Valencia. “They play a crucial role in absorbing the impact of floods.” Although the water passed through several urban and industrial areas before reaching the coastal wetland, Javier Jiménez Romo, a biologist and resident of Albufera, highlights: **”El Saler, the city of paella, was saved thanks to this wetland.”**
## The Albufera Park, more vulnerable to climate change after the floods
Spain, like many countries, is very vulnerable to climate change, and the Albufera Park could be even more exposed due to its uniqueness. “We were already facing problems with climate change before this event,” Ibor points out.
“The decrease in precipitation in the river basins, which feed the irrigation system, is reducing the water reaching the Park. Additionally, competition for water is increasing due to human consumption for agriculture,” he added. However, this is not the only issue, as **rising temperatures also hindered the fight against eutrophication**, which occurs due to an excess of nutrients such as nitrate, favoring the growth of algae and negatively impacting biodiversity.
Furthermore, the rise in sea level has increased salinity in the coastal area. “The sea level rises one centimeter every three years,” Ibor commented. “In 30 years, it would be 10 centimeters. This is a lot for a system where the difference between the average level of the lagoon and the sea is only 18 centimeters.”
## “It’s time to adapt,” experts warn
Experts agree that urgent measures are needed to protect the Park, which was already **affected by wildfires caused by humans** earlier this year. “We are seeing a lack of infrastructure and resources to manage this protected area,” stated Romo.
“After this tragedy, **I hope that all necessary resources are allocated**, not only to restore the wetland but to implement a long-term plan to protect its birds, animals, and the people living in its surroundings.”
Ibor stated that the only way to address the situation is through an adaptation strategy: **”We fear new phenomena like DANA. As scientists say, floods will increase in both intensity and frequency. A variety of rice more resistant to salinity is already being researched. We need to adapt effectively.”**
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