Every year on 2 February, World Wetlands Day aims to raise global awareness about the vital role of wetlands for people and planet. Also, this Day marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 February 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar.
Wetlands are hotspots of biodiversity and provide a myriad of benefits and services, including flood protection, drinking water, nutrient removal, wood and fibre, biomass, tourism and recreation, food, fish and fowl.
This year’s theme for World Wetlands Day "Wetlands and Water" highlights the importance of wetlands as a source of freshwater and encourages action to restore them and stop their loss.
We are facing a growing freshwater crisis that threatens people and our planet. We use more freshwater than nature can replenish, and we are destroying the ecosystem that water and all life depend on most – Wetlands.
DANUBEPARKS Network works to support the sustainable management of natural resources and improve the protected area management practices, so WWD is always a great opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of our work.
We hope that our upcoming activities within the WILDisland initiative and other projects will provide more opportunities for all Protected Areas to undertake restoration activities and push decision-makers to fulfill commitments to protect and restore wetlands.