On World Wetlands Day, WHO celebrates the vital role of wetlands in safeguarding human health and wellbeing amid the changing climate. Wetlands including marshes, swamps and floodplains are nature’s buffer against climate change. They absorb excess rainfall, reduce flooding risks and help to protect critical infrastructure including health facilities.

World Wetlands Day Messages and Statements

Wetlands

Land areas that are saturated or flooded with water either permanently or seasonally.

Inland wetlands:

 Marshes, lakes, rivers, floodplains, peatlands and swamps   

Coastal wetlands:

Saltwater marshes, estuaries, mangroves, lagoons and coral reefs

Human-made wetlands:

Fish ponds, rice paddies and salt pans