Tashkent, Feb. 2 -- February 2 is World Wetlands Day. The date was intentionally chosen because, on this day in 1971, the Convention on Wetlands was signed in Iran. Currently, over 150 countries are participants in this convention. Uzbekistan has four areas designated as Ramsar wetlands of international importance.

These include Lake Dengizkul, Arnasoy lake system, Tudakul and Kuyimozor reservoirs, and the Sudochye Lake System, which was added last year. The total area of these regions is 674.4 thousand hectares. Wetlands, alongside forests, are crucial sources of oxygen. They collect and enhance water quality by acting as natural filters for underground water, serving as vital sources of drinking water.

Moreover, wetlands serve as habi...