Global Wetland Outlook 2025: 22% of wetlands lost since 1970
Why in the news
The Ramsar Convention Secretariat’s Global Wetland Outlook 2025 warns of severe wetland degradation worldwide. The report is linked to discussions at the Ramsar COP15 meeting.
Key facts
- Wetlands cover more than 1,800 million hectares across freshwater, coastal and marine systems.
- About 411 million hectares have been lost since 1970, a 22% decline, or about 0.52% a year on average.
- Their ecosystem services are worth around USD 39 trillion.
- Wetlands make up about 6% of the Earth’s surface but deliver roughly 7.5% of global GDP in value.
- Around 123 million hectares need restoration.
| Indicator | Figure |
|---|---|
| Current extent | Over 1,800 million ha |
| Lost since 1970 | About 411 million ha (22%) |
| Value of services | USD 39 trillion |
| Restoration need | About 123 million ha |
About the Ramsar Convention
The Ramsar Convention is the international treaty for conserving and sustainably using wetlands. The Outlook ties its calls to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, including restoring at least 30% of degraded ecosystems and conserving 30% of land, waters and seas.
Exam angle
- Note the publisher: Ramsar Convention Secretariat.
- Remember the headline numbers: 411 million ha and 22%.
- Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean face the worst degradation.