World Wetlands Day on Feb. 2 highlights wetlands' importance.

World Wetlands Day is observed on Feb. 2 and marks the 1971 Convention on Wetlands; Ducks Unlimited Canada reports that up to 70% of wetlands have been lost in developed areas while Canada still contains about 25% of the world's remaining wetlands.

Many people note Feb. 2 for groundhog-related traditions, and the day also marks World Wetlands Day. The observance honours the Convention on Wetlands, which was adopted as an international treaty in 1971. Ducks Unlimited Canada reports that up to 70 per cent of wetlands have been lost in developed areas. Canada is reported to contain about 25 per cent of the world's remaining wetlands. Key points: - World Wetlands Day is observed on Feb. 2 and commemorates the 1971 Convention on Wetlands. - Ducks Unlimited Canada reports that up to 70 per cent of wetlands have been lost in developed areas of Canada. - Canada is reported to contain about 25 per cent of the planet's remaining wetlands. - Pat Kehoe, acting CEO of Ducks Unlimited Canada, is quoted saying wetlands act as major carbon storage systems and help mitigate climate change. Summary: The observance draws attention to the scale of wetland loss in Canada and to wetlands' role in storing carbon. Undetermined at this time.