World Wetlands Day is observed annually on February 2 to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and their conservation
The theme for World Wetlands Day changes annually; the theme for 2024 is 'Wetlands and human health'
Wetlands are diverse habitats, including bogs, swamps, peatlands, mangroves, and estuaries, which offer critical ecological functions
They are considered the most productive ecosystems on Earth, supporting a wide variety of plant and animal species
Wetlands provide essential ecosystem services such as water purification, flood control, and carbon storage
India actively participates in the Ramsar Convention and has 80 designated wetlands, showcasing its commitment to wetland conservation
These habitats play a pivotal role in preserving the ecological balance of watersheds and supporting the development of various organisms
They also contribute to improving water quality and maintaining groundwater levels
Wetlands serve as biological supermarkets, attracting animals and humans due to their abundance of food and habitat
Conservation of wetlands is crucial for the overall well-being of ecosystems and human societies, as they serve as important stopover points for migratory species