World Wetlands Day, celebrated worldwide on February 2, aims to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands for nature and human existence.
The day marks the anniversary of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, an international treaty adopted on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran, to protect wetlands worldwide. Learn more about the day’s significance, theme, and more, which are mentioned below.
What is World Wetlands Day?
According to the United Nations, “Wetlands are ecosystems in which water is the primary factor controlling the environment and the associated plant and animal life. A broad definition of wetlands includes both freshwater and marine and coastal ecosystems, such as all lakes and rivers, underground aquifers, swamps and marshes, wet grasslands, peatlands, oases, estuaries, deltas and tidal flats, mangroves and other coastal areas, coral reefs, and all human-made sites such as fishponds, rice paddies, reservoirs and saltpans.”
World Wetlands Theme 2025
The official theme for World Wetlands Day 2025 has not yet been announced. However, it is expected to focus on the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of wetlands to combat climate change and biodiversity loss. World Wetlands Day 2025 is a reminder that wetlands are vital for a sustainable future. Collective efforts can help conserve these precious ecosystems for future generations.
Importance of Wetlands
A wetland is land area where water is present at or near the area the soil which could be permanently or seasonally. Wetlands can be natural ns man-made. It can also contain fresh and salt water.
Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth. They provide essential services, including:
1. Water purification: Wetlands filter pollutants and improve water quality.
2. Flood control: They absorb excess rainwater, reducing flood risks.
3. Climate regulation: Wetlands store vast amounts of carbon, helping mitigate climate change.
4. Biodiversity hotspots: They are home to a diverse range of plants, animals, and migratory birds.
5. Livelihood support: Millions of people depend on wetlands for fishing, agriculture, and tourism.
