Policy and decision makers often lack knowledge (awareness) of the interconnection between functioning ecosystems and people’s livelihoods, or between environmental degradation and poverty.

Regrettably wetlands are often seen as areas of little or no value. They are considered 'wastelands', that are available for development or exploitation rather than a resource that, if managed properly, will make a significant contribution to ecosystem and human health.
This is partially because the global biodiversity value of wetland areas is often not expressed in economic terms or social benefits. Another reason is that the large-scale development plans are often driven by one sector (e.g. water and sanitation, hydro-electrical or transportation). But the  wetlands are multi-functional ecosystems that can serve a great variety of sectors and stakeholders, if approached in a multi-sectored manner.

As a result, despite intentions to the contrary, wetlands are frequently improperly managed. Leading to the destruction of environmental services and products, and a subsequent escalation in poverty among those whose livelihoods are reliant on such products and services. Such mismanagement increases the vulnerability of the less wealthy, and leading to a further cyclical decline in opportunities for both enivornment (nature), and people.