Archive · 2 Feb 2026
World Wetlands Day 2026: Theme and Conservation Efforts
World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on February 2 to remind everyone how important wetlands are.
In 2026, the theme is 'Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage,' which highlights how indigenous communities and local cultures have protected these ecosystems for generations.
Wetlands are very important because they store a lot of carbon, which helps fight climate change.
They also support many kinds of wildlife and provide livelihoods for about 1 in 8 people.
However, wetlands are disappearing faster than forests due to pollution and other human activities.
People can help by learning about wetlands, reducing their impact on the environment, and supporting restoration efforts.
World Wetlands Day 2026 theme is 'Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage.'
Wetlands store vast amounts of carbon, helping with climate mitigation.
About 1 in 8 people make their livelihoods from wetlands.
Wetlands are disappearing up to three times faster than forests.
People can help protect wetlands by learning, sharing, and supporting restoration efforts.
- Who
- Global communities, indigenous groups, and 172 Contracting Parties
- What
- World Wetlands Day 2026 celebrating the importance of wetlands and traditional knowledge
- When
- February 2, 2026
- Where
- Globally, with a focus on wetland regions
- Why
- To raise awareness about the value of wetlands and promote their conservation
- Date
- February 2, 2026
- Theme
- Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage
- History
- First celebrated in 1997, UN International Day since 2022
- Carbon Storage
- Peatlands store about one-third of land-based carbon
- Livelihoods
- About 1 in 8 people make their livelihoods from wetlands
- Climate Resilience
- Safeguard 60% of humanity along coastlines from floods, droughts, and storms
- Threats
- Disappearing up to three times faster than forests