WWD theme: Wetlands for our Future
The future of humanity really does depend on wetlands. Wetlands purify and replenish our water, and provide the fish and rice that feed billions. They act as a natural sponge against flooding and drought, and protect our coastlines. They burst with biodiversity, and are a vital means of storing carbon
Unfortunately, these benefits are not widely known. Often viewed as wasteland, 64% of our wetlands have disappeared since 1900.
Help us turn the tide on the loss and degradation of our wetlands.
Join us for World Wetlands Day 2015 – and beyond!
How to get involved?
Please visit the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands website here: http://www.worldwetlandsday.org/en/
More information
For World Wetlands Day 2015, we are specifically targeting teens and young people. They have a growing interest in environmental issues, are tech savvy, and have a strong belief in their own ability to make a difference.
Crucially, they also act as “transmitters,” spreading the word about wetlands and their vital importance to their families and friends, causing a ripple effect that reaches the wider public.
Our three-step strategy for approaching them to encourage change is:
- Give youth a reason to experience wetlands directly: the Wetlands Youth Photo Contest
- Educate them on the benefits and inject a sense of urgency at their disappearance
- Provide “next steps” where youth can take action for wetlands
How can you help?
- Please help publicize WWD and Wetlands Youth Photo Contest that runs from 2 February to 2 March.
- Consider acting as local organizer of wetland site visits for youth and/or broader educational events targeting other groups.
- Suggest local, concrete “next steps” that youth can take on wetlands. Help harness the enthusiasm that results from World Wetlands Day itself, and prolong its effect into a longer term call for action.
The Danone group and the Evian brand have been partners of the Ramsar Convention since 1998, and World Wetlands Day is made possible by their generosity.
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