The 26th World Wetlands Day in 2022 will be held on February 2. This year’s theme is “Value, Manage, Restore, and Love.” It is emphasized that human beings must formulate effective plans and ensure the sustainable development of wetlands.
Marseille, France (Merxwire) – Every February 2nd is World Wetlands Day. Wetlands, known as the “kidneys of the earth,” are listed as the top three ecosystems in the world alongside forests and oceans. Because of its functions such as flood control, decontamination and water purification, and groundwater level adjustment, rich in ecological resources can provide a suitable habitat for wild animals and plants. It can be said to be a paradise for birds and aquatic plants.
To protect wetlands, on February 2, 1971, representatives of 18 countries signed the “Convention of Wetlands of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl Habitats” in Ramsar, Iran. Later, to commemorate this day, in 1997, February 2 was designated as “World Wetlands Day” , calling on all walks of life to pay attention to wetlands and maintain the ecological preservation of wetlands.
According to statistics, the global wetland area is gradually disappearing, decreasing by 35% since 1970. They are disappearing three times faster than forests, and more than a quarter of wetland species are threatened with extinction. This year, the 26th World Wetlands Day echoes the 15th goal of the United Nations Sustainable Development (SDGs): life on land, protect the terrestrial ecology. Protect and promote sustainable wetland development. Below is a selection of wetlands featured on five continents. Let’s enjoy it together.
South America – Pantanal
The Pantanal wetland in South America is the largest tropical wetland globally, covering an area of about 150,000 square kilometers, and is now one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The terrain here is flat and slightly inclined. In the summer rainy season, the tortuous river will overflow the riverbank, submerging the surrounding low-lying land to the bottom. The land and water are mixed, so it has become the most abundant aquatic plant distribution center globally.
Asia – Sundarbans National Park
Sundarbans National Park is located in the Ganges delta, spanning two regions of India and Bangladesh, with about 10,000 square kilometers. It has the world’s largest mangrove area, a Bengal tiger sanctuary, and habitat for crocodiles, wild birds, and reptiles. In 1987, the United Nations listed it as a world cultural heritage to avoid human destruction and over-exploitation of beautiful wetlands and maintain essential wetlands’ natural ecological environment.
North America – Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park at the southern tip of Florida is the only subtropical wetland in North America. It was established in 1947 and covered an area of about 16,000 square kilometers. Many aquatic plants grow in this swamp, which provides a good foraging environment for many animals and plants. According to statistics, there are nearly 14 endangered species and nine high-risk species living here.
Australia – Kakadu Wetlands
Kakadu Wetlands, located in Australia, is inscribed on the World Heritage List by the United Nations in 1981 because of its unique and complex ecological environment, not only the coexistence and co-prosperity of wilderness landscapes and wetlands but also a unique indigenous rock art culture, becoming a place of dual heritage of culture and nature. Kakadu’s dry and rainy seasons are distinct, attracting millions of migratory birds to stay here in summer.
Europe – Camargue
Camargue is located in the delta area at the mouth of the Rhône River in southeastern France. It is a wetland composed of lakes and swamps. It is world-famous for flamingos and is appreciated as one of the best bird-watching secrets in Europe. Due to the geographical environment, it is very suitable for halophytes to survive here, and the special seasoning “Salt Flower” in French cuisine is produced here.
