Understanding significance of World Wetlands Day
World Wetlands Day is celebrated annually on February 2 worldwide, marking the anniversary of the signing of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance in 1971. India, a signatory to the convention since 1982, has designated 75 wetlands as Ramsar sites across 23 states and Union Territories. Let us understand the significance and history of the day.
Sustaining ecosystem
World Wetlands Day 2024 is a global celebration acknowledging the pivotal role of wetlands, encompassing marshes, swamps, bogs, and mangroves. These ecosystems are essential for water quality, biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and livelihoods. The event unites communities worldwide to appreciate and raise awareness about the critical significance of wetlands in sustaining our environment and supporting millions of lives.
Ramsar convention
World Wetlands Day, observed annually on February 2, holds United Nations significance as it commemorates the signing of the Ramsar Convention in Ramsar, Iran, on February 2, 1971. Since 1997, the day serves to heighten public awareness of wetland values and benefits while advocating for the conservation and sustainable use of these critical ecosystems on a global scale.
Wetlands' pivotol role
In 2024, World Wetlands Day will center around the theme "Wetlands and Human Wellbeing," highlighting the pivotal role of wetlands in both natural ecosystems and human prosperity. Wetlands play a fundamental role in supporting human life, offering crucial services such as water filtration, food provision, biodiversity support, climate change mitigation, livelihood opportunities, and cultural inspiration. These ecosystems are indispensable contributors to our overall well-being.
75 Ramsar sites
Since signing the Convention on Wetlands in 1982, India has demonstrated its commitment by designating Keoladeo National Park and Chilika Lake as the first Ramsar sites. The nation now proudly hosts 75 Ramsar sites, with few of the recent additions including Tampara Lake, Ansupa Lake, Yashwant Sagar, Hirakud Reservoir in Odisha, Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh and Suchindram Theroor Wetland in Tamil Nadu.
How to get involved?
You can engage by exploring nearby wetlands, appreciating biodiversity, and understanding their role in the ecosystem. Participate in or organize events like guided tours, clean-ups, or educational workshops by becoming a citizen scientist at your local wetland. Support wetland preservation through donations or volunteering. Advocate for policies safeguarding wetlands, sharing awareness in your community. Familiarize yourself with Ramsar Convention-designated sites, recognizing their global importance.
