World Wetlands Day 2024: wetlands and human wellbeing

Every year, on the 2^nd of February, we celebrate World Wetlands Day (WWD) to raise global awareness about the high importance of wetlands for people and our planet. WWD is also an occasion to commemorate the signing of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in the Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971.

“Wetlands and human wellbeing“, the theme for WWD 2024, spotlights how all aspects of human wellbeing are intricately tied to the health of the world’s wetlands — physical, mental, and environmental. It elucidates the historical interconnection between wetlands and human life, with people drawing sustenance, inspiration, and resilience from these productive ecosystems. Furthermore, it underscores the critical need for human stewardship of the world’s wetlands.

Healthy and well-managed wetlands play a crucial role in human well-being, evident in various aspects of our lives. They are vital for over a billion people, providing jobs and serving as essential sources of freshwater, thus supporting a sustainable economic and water future. Wetlands ensure global food security by supplying fish—a primary protein source for over 1 billion people—and sustaining rice paddies that feed 3.5 billion annually. Additionally, wetlands act as natural shields, guarding coastal communities against disaster risks related to climate change such as storms, floods, erosion, and droughts. These ecosystems not only support biodiversity but also enhance mental health and inspire culture, fostering peace, connecting communities with nature, enriching traditions, and inspiring creativity. In essence, wetlands are vital for sustaining human well-being, ecological balance, and cultural vibrancy.

Ghar El Melh (Tunisia). Photo: © MedWet/C.Amico

Communication materials for WWD 2024

Today, we are pleased to announce that all materials, comprising guides, posters, factsheets, presentations, logos, etc that have been provided by the Ramsar Secretariat are, now available to download.