World Wetlands Day

Introduction and background		Theme and messages		Invitation		Media related products		Related links

World Wetlands Day is celebrated internationally each year on 2 February. It marks the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention) in Ramsar, Iran, on 2 February 1971.

World Wetlands Day was first celebrated in 1997. Since then government agencies, non-government organisations and community groups have celebrated World Wetlands Day by undertaking actions to raise public awareness of wetland values and benefits and promote the conservation and wise use of wetlands. These activities include seminars, nature walks, festivals, launches of new policies, announcement of new Ramsar sites, newspaper articles, radio interviews and wetland rehabilitation.

 

This year’s theme: Water and Wetlands Management, speaks to the relationship between water and wetlands. Wetlands improve the quality of water while at the same time providing a clean source and store of freshwater. Wetlands also reduce flood impacts, manage river flows and control erosion.

 

Without the appropriate management of wetlands, water of the right quality and quantity will be hard to find.

The Department of Environmental Affairs urges all South Africans to get involved in wetland conservation and restoration. Protect this water resource by reducing environmental impact and using water wisely.

 

 

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