BirdLife Cyprus reminds us that World Wetlands Day, celebrated annually on 2 February, highlights the vital importance of wetlands for both the planet and human well-being. The date marks the signing of the Ramsar Convention in 1971 and serves as a global reminder of the need to protect, manage and restore these unique ecosystems. In Cyprus, where wetlands such as the Akrotiri Salt Lake and Paralimni Lake support rich biodiversity and migratory birds, their conservation is crucial for the island’s natural heritage and communities.
According to Birdlife Cyprus press release, wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth. Although they cover a relatively small portion of the planet, they support a disproportionately large share of global biodiversity and provide essential ecosystem services. They regulate the water cycle, improve water quality, reduce the risk of floods and droughts, protect soil from erosion and play a significant role in climate change mitigation by storing large amounts of carbon dioxide. Wetlands also sustain the livelihoods of millions of people and offer important benefits for recreation, culture and quality of life.
Despite their importance, wetlands worldwide continue to be lost and degraded at alarming rates, primarily due to land use changes, uncontrolled development, pollution and the impacts of climate change. Internationally, wetland protection and restoration are recognised as some of the most effective and cost-efficient solutions to both biodiversity loss and climate change.
Cyprus alarm
Birdlife warns that in Cyprus, wetlands face increasing pressure. Climate change, bringing more frequent droughts and extreme weather events, combined with gradual but ongoing urban and tourist development, threatens their natural function and the biodiversity they support. Even protected wetlands, such as the Akrotiri Salt Lake, face serious challenges, demonstrating that legal protection alone is insufficient without effective management, monitoring and, where needed, restoration.
Experience shows that when there is political will, scientific evidence and active community engagement, wetlands can recover and continue to provide their multiple benefits.
Nature enthusiasts celebrate World Wetlands Day at Paralimni lake
BirdLife Cyprus hosted an event on Sunday 1 February to celebrate World Wetlands Day at Paralimni Lake, attracting nature enthusiasts. Participants enjoyed a morning of birdwatching and nature exploration, observing flamingos that spend the winter at the lake, along with various species of ducks, herons and other waterbirds.
The event was organised in collaboration with Paralimni Youth, the Paralimni Lake Photography group, and the Friends of the Flamingo Lake. The Mayor of Paralimni-Deryneia, George Nikolettos, highlighted the importance of local community partnerships in protecting and showcasing Cyprus’ wetlands.
"World Wetlands Day serves as a reminder that protecting wetlands is an investment in the future. In an age of climate uncertainty, wetlands remain irreplaceable allies for nature, society and the quality of life of all", BirdLife Cyprus noted.