World Wetlands Day 2025
On February 2, 2025, the World Wetlands…
On February 2, 2025, the World Wetlands Day will be celebrated, an occasion to reflect on the importance of these unique and fragile ecosystems, which are essential for biodiversity, climate regulation, and human well-being. Unfortunately, both in Italy and around the world, the situation of wetlands is becoming increasingly alarming, with warning signs that cannot be ignored.
In Italy, wetlands are under growing pressure. Urbanization and land consumption, especially in coastal areas, have led to the destruction of many of these areas. Pollution from industrial, agricultural, and domestic discharges threatens water quality, while climate change, with prolonged droughts and extreme weather events, is altering water balances. Additionally, intensive agriculture has contributed to the drainage of many marshes, drastically reducing the extent of wetlands. Despite these threats, Italy still preserves some areas of great value, such as the Valli di Comacchio, the Po Delta, and the Saline di Margherita di Savoia, recognized internationally as Ramsar sites.
Globally, the situation is equally critical. According to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, over 35% of these ecosystems have disappeared in the last 50 years. The main causes are climate change, pollution, overexploitation of water resources, and the conversion of these areas for agricultural or urban purposes. Coastal wetlands, such as mangroves and salt marshes, are particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels, which jeopardize their existence.
Wetlands perform irreplaceable functions. They host around 40% of the world’s species, contributing to biodiversity conservation. They play a crucial role in climate mitigation by absorbing large amounts of CO2 and protecting against floods. Moreover, they filter water, ensuring the availability of clean freshwater resources.
To reverse this trend, urgent action is needed. It is essential to strengthen conservation policies, restore degraded areas, and raise public awareness about the importance of these ecosystems. International cooperation is equally crucial to address the global threats endangering wetlands.
World Wetlands Day 2025 represents an opportunity to reflect on these challenges and take decisive action. Protecting and valuing wetlands is not only an environmental duty but a necessity to ensure a sustainable future for the planet and for generations to come.