World Wetlands Day

World Wetlands Day History

World Wetlands Day seeks to raise awareness about the immense value and significance of wetland ecosystems. A hallmark of environmental conservation, this observance focuses on mitigating the threats and deleterious activities that endanger these vital habitats. Essential aspects acknowledged include the role of wetlands in maintaining global biodiversity, moderating the effects of climate change through carbon sequestration, and providing critical resources such as water, food, and fibre, as well as cultural and recreational services.

The establishment of World Wetlands Day can be traced back to 1971, with the adoption of the Ramsar Convention in Iran, aimed at preserving wetlands of international significance. For the European Union, this occasion underpins policy frameworks and environmental legislation that support wetland conservation and sustainable management. The continent is home to more than 329 Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance, underscoring the observation's relevance. EU citizens are encouraged to understand and advocate the wise use of wetlands, recognising their contribution to mitigating climate change effects, enhancing biodiversity, and promoting human well-being.

In the European Union, World Wetlands Day is marked by numerous organised activities and initiatives. Nature walks, birdwatching trips, and photography competitions cater to public engagement. Educational seminars and workshops in schools, universities and community centres foster an understanding of the biodiversity of these ecosystems and human responsibility towards their conservation. Policy dialogues and media campaigns amplify the advocacy for sustainable wetland management. World Wetlands Day is observed annually on the 2nd of February, lending an opportunity each year for the countries in the European Union to underscore their commitment to wetland conservation and sustainable use.

Top 8 Facts for 2026 World Wetlands Day in the EU

• World Wetlands Day 2026 is observed under the official theme Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage, which emphasizes the integration of historical community wisdom with modern science to restore these ecosystems.
• A major milestone for the European Union in 2026 is the deadline for member states to submit their National Restoration Plans by September, a critical requirement of the EU Nature Restoration Law that aims to recover 20% of the bloc's land and sea areas by 2030.
• Despite their relatively small geographic footprint, European peatlands are recognized as climate "superheroes" because they store approximately twice as much carbon as all of the continent's forests combined.
• Historical data indicates that Europe has been the worst-affected region globally for habitat loss, having seen approximately 80% of its wetlands disappear over the last century due to agricultural drainage and urban expansion.
• Within the European Union, Spain stands out as the only member state that has successfully preserved more than half of its original wetland areas, while other nations like Ireland have lost as much as 90% of these vital habitats.
• These ecosystems are essential for European biodiversity, as roughly 40% of all plant and animal species on the continent depend on wetlands for breeding, feeding, or migration.
• The 2026 global campaign encourages citizens to participate in the #CultureForWetlands initiative, which highlights how traditional practices like sustainable reed harvesting and artisanal fishing have protected European marshes for centuries.
• Restoration projects across the EU, such as those featured in the Inventory of Wetlands of the Littoral Zone, European Union, are increasingly focusing on "rewetting" agricultural land to act as natural sponges that prevent the increasingly frequent floods and droughts seen across the continent.

In the News and Trending in the EU for World Wetlands Day

Top things to do in the EU for World Wetlands Day

• Go outdoors and participate in events and activities such as tree planting, bird watching.
• Spread awareness on social media by using hashtags such as #WorldWetlandsDay or #WetlandsMatter
• Read a book to learn more about Wetlands:
  Wetland Science: Perspectives from South Asia - by Brij Gopal and Prakash C. Trivedi
  Inventory of Wetlands of the Littoral Zone, European Union - by Nigel Dudley and Sue Stolton
• Visit Doñana National Park, Spain: This park is one of Europe's most important wetland reserves and a paradise for birds with over 500 different species observed.