- UN World Lake Day Award: GNF and Living Lakes are nominating the Indian Sundarbans to highlight the global importance of water bodies for the climate, biodiversity, and humanity.
- The world’s largest mangrove ecosystem: a UNESCO World Heritage Site that links global climate protection, unique biodiversity, and the protection of millions of people.
- Through exemplary mangrove restoration and targeted community empowerment, the partner organization NEWS is countering these threats through active local engagement.
Radolfzell, August 27, 2026 – To mark UN World Lake Day on August 27, 2026, the international network Living Lakes and the environmental foundation Global Nature Fund (GNF) are nominating the Sundarbans in India, thereby highlighting the vital importance of water bodies and wetlands for the climate, biodiversity, and humanity. Since 2004, the GNF has been naming a wetland or lake as the “Wetland or Lake of the Year” to raise awareness of ecological challenges and successful conservation efforts. The first award was given to Lake Chapala in Mexico at that time.
An ecosystem of global significance under extreme pressure
The Sundarbans in the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna Delta cover nearly 10,000 km² in the Indian portion and comprise a complex network of tidal rivers, creeks, mudflats, and 102 islands. This unique tidal wetland is home to over 300 plant species and 700 animal species.
It is the world’s only home to a tiger population adapted to mangrove habitats and provides a habitat for rare species such as the Ganges river dolphin, the Irrawaddy dolphin, the northern river turtle, and fish-eating cats. At the same time, the region is one of the coastal ecosystems on Earth most threatened by climate change. Sea levels here are rising at a rate of about three centimeters per decade—significantly faster than the global average—leading to massive coastal erosion, land loss, and salinization of the soil and drinking water. Recurring cyclones such as Aila, Amphan, and Remal are hitting the coastal region with devastating force.
Local Solutions: Ecological Restoration & Community Empowerment
The Indian partner organization, Nature Environment & Wildlife Society (NEWS), is working with the local community to counter these threats through concrete measures. Through the Community-Based Ecological Mangrove Restoration (CBEMR) approach, more than 5,000 hectares of degraded land have already been successfully reforested. More than 3,500 women are involved in tree nurseries and reforestation projects. In addition, sustainable beekeeping with the native wild bee (Apis cerana indica), climate-adapted agriculture, sustainable aquaculture, and training opportunities for young people all contribute to a better future for both nature and people. The Sundarbans are a striking example of the great potential of local initiatives and international partnerships for the protection of valuable natural habitats. The award not only recognizes concrete local efforts but also underscores the urgency of protecting valuable ecosystems worldwide.
About the Living Lakes Network
The Living Lakes Network is an international partnership of 130 members working in more than 60 countries to protect and restore lakes and wetlands around the world. For over 20 years, the network has been working with NGOs, governments, indigenous peoples, and local communities to conserve critical habitats, strengthen sustainable livelihoods, and raise awareness about the vital importance of lakes and wetlands. www.livinglakes.org
