Wetlands are the Earth’s most threatened ecosystem. Their role as reservoirs of biodiversity is under siege. Biodiversity losses are rising and are tied to changes in land use. Meeting global biodiversity, climate and Sustainable Development Goals requires halting the loss of wetlands and rapidly scaling up restoration.
Wetlands are at high risk from climate change, severely impacting many economically marginalised people. Meeting the climate challenge requires ambitious wetland conservation and restoration across society.
About 1 in 8 people make their livelihoods from wetlands in ways that also deliver food, water supplies, transport, and leisure.
World Wetland Day 2024 will focus on the theme of 'Wetlands and Human Wellbeing'. The theme recognises wetlands as critical to people and nature, underscoring the intrinsic value of wetland ecosystems and their benefits and services, including contributions to sustainable development and human wellbeing.
The importance of World Wetlands Day
- Highlighting benefits of wetlands:
The day aims to highlight the diverse benefits that wetlands provide to humans, including flood control, water purification, climate change mitigation, and support for biodiversity.
- Promoting conservation and wise use of wetlands:
The day encourages people to take action to conserve and use wetlands sustainably, ensuring their long-term survival and the benefits they provide for generations to come.
- Raising awareness about threats to wetlands:
The day aims to raise awareness about the threats wetlands face, such as pollution, unsustainable land use, and climate change.
- Encouraging action to address wetland threats:
The day encourages individuals, communities, and governments to take concrete actions to address threats to wetlands and promote their conservation.
World Wetlands Day provides an opportunity for all nations to come together to spur awareness, appreciation, and action for wetlands.
Life Interlaced Wetlands and People Poster (3.28 MB)
World Wetlands Day Poster" (995 KB)
