World Wetlands Day, celebrated annually on February 2, raises global awareness about the critical role wetlands play in supporting biodiversity, human well-being, and cultural heritage. The 2025 theme, ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future’, emphasizes the significance of wetlands in preserving life, combating climate change, and supporting sustainable livelihoods. Wetlands are vital ecosystems that contribute significantly to the planet’s ecological balance, and protecting them is essential for the future of both nature and humanity.
Key Points about World Wetlands Day
Purpose of World Wetlands Day
- Raise awareness about the importance of wetlands for people, nature, and culture.
- Focuses on the benefits of wetlands for biodiversity and human well-being.
- Celebrates the vital ecosystems that wetlands represent and promotes actions for their protection.
Theme for 2025
- ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future’ highlights the need for continued conservation efforts to preserve wetlands for the health of future generations.
Wetlands as Productive Ecosystems
- Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems globally, supporting a diverse range of wildlife.
- They help combat climate change by providing natural carbon sinks.
- Wetlands ensure freshwater security for many regions, making them vital for human survival.
Cultural and Economic Significance
- Wetlands have shaped human cultures over centuries and continue to inspire creativity and traditions.
- They provide sustainable livelihoods, especially for local communities involved in fishing, agriculture, and tourism.
Threats to Wetlands
- Despite their importance, wetlands are among the most threatened ecosystems on Earth due to pollution, land reclamation, and climate change.
- Conservation efforts are crucial to maintain wetland biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Role for UNESCO and Ramsar Convention
- UNESCO supports the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty aimed at conserving and sustainably using wetlands.
- Many wetlands are designated as Ramsar Sites, UNESCO World Heritage properties, and Biosphere Reserves.
- These designations help improve protection efforts and access to resources for conserving wetlands.
World Wetlands Day and COP15
- This year, the theme of World Wetlands Day aligns with the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention (COP15).
- COP15 will take place in Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, in July 2025. The region is a UNESCO World Heritage site shared by Zimbabwe and Zambia, known for its spectacular Victoria Falls.
- COP15 will focus on wetland conservation and set global goals for future actions
Notable Wetlands Protected Under Ramsar and UNESCO
- 1. Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay (France)
- Dual designation under Ramsar and World Heritage Conventions.
- Critical coastal wetland that supports migratory birds and local fisheries.
- Home to a Gothic-style Benedictine abbey, blending culture and nature.
- Conservation efforts balance natural preservation with human activities.
- 2. Wood Buffalo National Park (Canada)
- Protects one of the largest inland deltas in the world.
- Vital for ecosystem health and provides freshwater for surrounding communities.
- Indigenous and local populations benefit from enhanced food security through access to fish and wildlife.
- 3. Banc d’Arguin National Park (Mauritania)
- Coastal wetland critical for migratory birds, fish, and wildlife.
- Supports local livelihoods through healthy fish stocks.
- 4. Itsukushima Shinto Shrine (Japan)
- The wetlands surrounding this sacred site are vital for natural beauty and spiritual significance.
- Wetland protection supports the tourism industry while preserving cultural heritage.
Ramsar Sites in India
- Ahead of World Wetlands Day on February 2, 2025, India has expanded its list of Ramsar sites, which are wetlands recognized as being of international importance.
- The new additions bring India’s total to 89 Ramsar sites, up from 85. Notably, Sikkim and Jharkhand have received their first Ramsar site designations, highlighting the country’s continued commitment to wetland conservation.
Newly Added Ramsar Sites (February 2025)
- Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
- Therthangal Bird Sanctuary Tamil Nadu)
- Khecheopalri Wetland (Sikkim)
- Udhwa Lake (Jharkhand)
| Summary/Static | Details |
| Why in the news? | World Wetlands Day Date, Theme, Challenges, Role of RAMSAR Convention |
| Date | 2nd February |
| Theme for 2025 | ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future’ |
| COP 15 Venue | Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe |
| Newly Added Ramsar Sites India | Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) Therthangal Bird Sanctuary Tamil Nadu) Khecheopalri Wetland (Sikkim) Udhwa Lake (Jharkhand) |