World Wetlands Day and Its Importance
World Wetlands Day, is celebrated every year on February 2 and aims to raise awareness about the protection and rational use of wetlands. Wetlands, which are among the most biologically productive ecosystems after rainforests, play a critical role in maintaining ecosystem balance and preserving biodiversity.
Functions of Watering Areas
Wetlands serve many important ecological functions, including:
- Providing Drinking Water: Wetlands provide drinking water by feeding groundwater resources.
- Flood Control: It ensures regular storage of water during excessive rainfall, thus preventing floods.
- Climate Change Control: It reduces the effects of climate change with its carbon storage capacity.
- Agriculture and Livestock: Wetlands provide fertile land for agriculture and livestock farming.
- Tourism and Recreation: It supports tourism with its natural beauties and contributes to local economies.
Protection of Water Areas
Protection of watering areas, is of vital importance for a sustainable environment. Turkey made an international commitment to the protection of wetlands by becoming a party to the Ramsar Convention in 1994. In this context, a total of 14 wetlands in Turkey have been declared Ramsar sites.
National Wetland Management Information System
The Ministry has prepared an inventory of wetlands National Wetland Management Information System (SAYBİS). Thanks to this system, 1,6 wetlands with an area of 6 million hectares have been registered. SAYBİS is a platform where permits for wetlands are processed, as well as an information source open to public access.
Watershed Management Plans
In line with the “Rational use of wetlands” principle of the Ramsar Convention, wetland management plans have been prepared since 1999. These plans are a roadmap for the protection and sustainable use of wetlands. In 26 years, a total of 76 wetland management plans have been prepared and put into practice.
Rehabilitation Studies
Rehabilitation of degraded wetlands is of great importance for the revitalization of existing ecosystems. Kayseri Sultan Marshes, Antalya Avlan Lake, Konya Ereğli Marshes ve Afyonkarahisar Karakuyu Marshes Rehabilitation work is being carried out in areas such as. It is planned to start rehabilitation work in Düzce Efteni Lake in 2024.
Ecotourism and Public Awareness
Visitor centers are being established in wetlands to support ecotourism. Since 2002, facilities have been built in 55 wetlands, turning these areas into ecotourism centers. Events are organized to raise public awareness about the importance, protection and rational use of wetlands, and each year a specific theme is celebrated.
2025 Theme and Slogan
Set for 2025 World Wetlands Day The theme is “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future” and the slogan is “Value, Protect, Promote.” These events aim to raise awareness of the protection of wetlands.
In conclusion, the protection and sustainable use of wetlands is not only an ecological necessity but also an economic and social responsibility. Every individual must be sensitive and contribute to this issue.
