What is an environmental benefit provided by coastal wetlands?

Coastal wetlands provide significant environmental benefits, particularly in enhancing coastal flood protection. They act as natural buffers that absorb excess rainwater and storm surges, reducing the impact of flooding on surrounding areas. The vegetation in these wetlands, such as marsh grasses and mangroves, helps to slow down water movement, trapping sediments and preventing erosion. This natural function is crucial in areas vulnerable to hurricanes and rising sea levels, where wetlands can mitigate the intensity of flooding and protect coastal communities and ecosystems.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary roles of coastal wetlands. Promoting urban expansion or supporting industrial growth does not align with the ecological functions of wetlands, which are focused on environmental preservation and habitat support rather than development. While agriculture may utilize wetland areas in some contexts, it is not the primary or most beneficial role of coastal wetlands, which are more valued for their ecological contributions, such as habitat provision and flood mitigation.