Islamabad, Feb 2: The World Wetlands Day 2025 was observed on Sunday, February 2, under the theme “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future” to raise public awareness about the importance of wetland conservation and restoration.
Significance of World Wetlands Day
The United Nations officially designated February 2 as World Wetlands Day on August 30, 2021, to commemorate the adoption of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 1971. The Ramsar Convention is a global treaty that aims to promote the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands by encouraging nations to establish protected areas, implement effective policies, and share scientific knowledge.
So far, 172 countries have ratified the convention, which requires member states to designate at least one wetland of international importance (Ramsar site).
READ MORE: Romina Khurshid Emphasizes Wetlands’ Vital Role in Biodiversity and Climate
Nepal’s Commitment to Wetland Conservation
Nepal, home to a diverse range of wetlands, has 10 Ramsar-listed sites, including:
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Rara Lake
Mai Pokhari
Phoksundo Lake
Bisahajari Lake
Ghodaghodi Lake
Gosainkunda Lake
Gokyo Lake
Jagdishpur Reservoir
Pokhara Valley (group of nine lakes)
Wetlands cover 819,277 hectares of Nepal’s total area, making up about five percent of the country’s landmass. These ecosystems play a crucial role in biodiversity, water purification, climate regulation, and disaster mitigation.
Call for Action
On this occasion, environmentalists and government officials emphasized the urgent need to protect Nepal’s wetlands from pollution, encroachment, and climate change impacts. Conservation efforts must include community involvement, sustainable water management, and stricter environmental policies to safeguard these vital ecosystems for future generations.