World Wetlands Day

World Wetlands Day is an annual United Nations observance day, celebrated every 02 February, focusing on the vital role of wetlands for people and planet.

Nearly 90% of the world’s wetlands have been degraded since the 1700s, and we are losing wetlands three times faster than forests. Yet, wetlands are critically important ecosystems that contribute to biodiversity, climate mitigation and adaptation, freshwater availability, world economies, and more.

It is urgent that we raise national and global awareness about wetlands in order to reverse their rapid loss and encourage actions to conserve and restore them.

World Wetlands Day is the ideal time to increase people’s understanding of these critically important ecosystems.

History of the Day

World Wetlands Day is recognised as a United Nations International Day of Importance, celebrated around the world each year. It marks the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention) in Ramsar, Iran, on 02 February 1971.

On 30 August, 2021, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 75/317 and hence established 02 February as World Wetlands Day.