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World Wetlands Day is celebrated annually on 2 February and aims to raise global awareness about the critical role wetlands play for people and the planet. The day marks the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 February 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar.
Notably, 2 February 2026 will be the first year that World Wetlands Day is observed as a United Nations International Day. This recognition was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 30 August 2021, through a resolution co-sponsored by 75 member states.
World Wetlands Day 2026 Date
World Wetlands Day is observed on 2 February every year.
What Is a Wetland?
1: Who was the first woman President of India?
Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil or is present at or near the surface either permanently or seasonally, including during the growing season. Wetlands support both aquatic and terrestrial species and are broadly classified into two types:
- Coastal or tidal wetlands
- Inland or non-tidal wetlands
Marshes, swamps, bogs, fens and mangroves are common examples of wetlands.
Wetlands function like giant sponges by storing water and slowly releasing it, helping regions cope with dry seasons and low rainfall. Their dense root systems stabilize soil, reduce erosion and filter pollutants, thereby improving water quality.
Just as tropical rainforests are known as the lungs of the planet, wetlands are often called the kidneys of the Earth because of their role in cleaning pollutants from the environment.
Wetlands provide immense ecological and economic value by offering:
- Flood protection
- Shoreline erosion control
- Recreational and aesthetic opportunities
- Natural products at no direct cost
Protecting wetlands is therefore essential for maintaining a healthy and balanced ecosystem.
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Start Learning!World Wetlands Day 2026 Theme
The theme for World Wetlands Day 2026 is “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage.” The theme highlights the strong link between wetlands and the traditional knowledge of indigenous and local communities who have depended on these ecosystems for generations.
It emphasizes the role of cultural practices and community-led wisdom in conserving wetlands sustainably and encourages integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation efforts to protect wetlands and the livelihoods connected to them.
History of World Wetlands Day 2026
On 2 February 1971, Mr. Eskander Firouz, Director of Iran’s Game and Fish Department, convened a conference at the Caspian seaside resort of Ramsar, Iran. During this meeting, representatives from 18 nations agreed upon the treaty titled “The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat.”
The treaty was formally signed on 3 February 1971 and is commonly known as the Ramsar Convention or Convention on Wetlands.
World Wetlands Day has been celebrated since 1997, with the objective of raising awareness about the need to conserve and sustainably manage wetlands worldwide.
How to Observe World Wetlands Day 2026
Governments, organizations and individuals all have a role to play in wetland conservation. Since over one-third of the world’s wetlands have disappeared since 1971, immediate action is crucial to prevent further loss.
Some effective ways to observe World Wetlands Day include:
- Organizing conferences or seminars to raise public awareness
- Inviting wetland experts to discuss the role of wetlands in climate change mitigation
- Holding exhibitions showcasing wetland-themed art or photography
- Organizing community walks, bike rides or runs to promote awareness
- Planning wetland clean-up drives involving adults and children
- Conducting photo or essay competitions focused on wetlands
- Visiting wetlands of international importance within your state or country
A lack of community awareness about the value and benefits of wetlands often leads to their degradation and destruction. World Wetlands Day serves as a reminder that it is time to take collective action and work towards the conservation of this vital ecosystem.
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Start Learning!World Wetlands Day 2026 Quiz
When was World Wetlands Day first celebrated?
(a) 2 February, 1971
(b) 5 February, 1991
(c) 1 February, 1982
How many Ramsar recognized wetland sites are there in the world?
(a) 2190
(b) 2414
(c) 1242
Which city was constructed on a wetland?
(a) Dubai
(b) Florence
(c) Bayawan
How many Ramsar recognized wetland sites are there in India?
(a) 52
(b) 47
(c) 33
World Wetlands Day is celebrated on _____________.
(a) 2nd February
(b) 14th February
(c) 24th February
_______________________ is India’s largest wetland.
(a) Chilka Wetland
(b) Vembanad Kol Wetland
(c) Sunderbans Wetland
_____________________ is the smallest wetland in India.
(a) Renuka Wetland
(b) Vembanad Wetland
(c) Chilka Wetland
Which is the world’s largest wetland?
(a) Everglades
(b) The Pantanal
(c) Mekong Delta
