Feb.2 Marks World Wetlands Day

World Wetlands Day is an annual observance that highlights the importance of wetlands to both humans and the environment.

The theme for the event in 2024 is "Wetlands and Human Wellbeing", which emphasizes the interconnectedness between wetlands and various aspects of human health, including physical, mental, and environmental well-being.

Wetlands play a crucial role in ensuring human health and prosperity for future generations, as they are home to a diverse range of plants and animals and help regulate the water cycle. They also assist in preventing flooding, improving water quality, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, human activities such as drainage, pollution, and overfishing are rapidly putting wetlands at risk.

On February 2, 1971, an international treaty called the Ramsar Convention was signed, which was named after the Iranian city of Ramsar. The Ramsar Convention was established to help protect wetlands and their resources, and in 2021, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 75/317, designating February 2 as World Wetlands Day.

 The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands for human well-being and the environment.