World Wetlands Day is a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness of the critical importance of wetlands, among the most biodiverse and productive ecosystems on the planet. Celebrated each year on 2 February, it encourages governments, communities and individuals around the world to recognize, value and protect wetlands for the benefit of present and future generations.
World Wetlands Day 2026 explores the deep-rooted connections between wetlands and cultural practices, traditions and knowledge systems of communities across the world.
This year’s theme, “Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage,” spotlights the timeless role of traditional knowledge in sustaining wetland ecosystems and preserving cultural identity.
Across regions and cultures, wetlands have shaped ways of life for centuries. Traditional fishing techniques, floodplain agriculture, reed harvesting, grazing practices, water management systems, rituals and oral traditions reflect long-standing relationships between people and wetland landscapes. These knowledge systems, developed through generations of close observation of nature, continue to offer valuable insights for the wise use, conservation and restoration of wetlands today.
Key campaign messages
- Wetlands are living cultural landscapes, deeply intertwined with the traditions, identities and livelihoods of communities worldwide.
- Traditional knowledge plays a crucial role in the sustainable management, conservation and restoration of wetlands.
- Valuing cultural heritage alongside ecological functions strengthens resilience and supports long-term wetland protection.
Healthy wetlands are essential for biodiversity, climate regulation, water purification and human wellbeing. Recognizing and integrating traditional knowledge into policy, planning and community initiatives can enhance conservation outcomes while fostering respect for cultural diversity and local stewardship.
In the Carpathian region, the Carpathian Wetland Initiative (CWI) has previously highlighted the links between culture and wetlands. A notable example is the 2018 project and publication Carpathian Cultural Heritage in Wetlands, which explored cultural values, traditional practices and heritage associated with wetland landscapes across the Carpathians – available online as part of CWI’s project portfolio: https://www.cwi.sk/projects/.
World Wetlands Day 2026 also contributes to the goals of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030), which calls for protecting and reviving ecosystems around the world. Embracing traditional knowledge and cultural values is a key element in achieving inclusive and lasting restoration efforts.
The Carpathian Wetland Initiative invites partners, local communities, experts and stakeholders across the Carpathian region to join the World Wetlands Day 2026 celebrations. Activities that highlight traditional practices, cultural heritage and community connections to wetlands are especially encouraged. Share your stories, events and experiences, and help raise awareness of the vital links between wetlands, culture and people.
Information materials to support outreach activities for World Wetlands Day 2026 are available at www.worldwetlandsday.org.
Let us celebrate wetlands not only as ecosystems, but also as carriers of knowledge, culture and tradition – and work together to ensure their protection for generations to come.
