Having been filled, drained, converted to farmland, or lost due to coastal erosion, the loss of what worldwide has been extensive.

The loss being referred to is primarily concerning wetlands. Wetlands, which include marshes, swamps, and bogs, play vital ecological roles, such as water filtration, flood protection, and providing habitat for diverse wildlife. Unfortunately, global activities such as agricultural expansion, urban development, and climate change have led to the extensive degradation and loss of these important ecosystems. Coastal erosion, particularly in areas affected by rising sea levels, further exacerbates the situation. The World Wetlands Day highlights the importance of these ecosystems and the need for their preservation and restoration to maintain biodiversity and mitigate climate change impacts.