Today, nearly two billion people live in areas at risk from severe water scarcity, while water crises are one of the greatest risks to the global economy. We’ve lost 83% of freshwater species populations since 1970 and a third of our remaining wetlands – the world’s life support systems. And climate change will only make the situation worse since its impacts will “most immediately and acutely be felt through water”.

More than ever, we need healthy freshwater environments. WWF is striving to protect and revive the rivers and wetlands that sustain people and nature. From the Amazon to the Zambezi, we are working with communities, partners, companies and governments to safeguard iconic species like sturgeon and river dolphins, restore wetlands and keep rivers free flowing, increase protected areas, and build resilience to climate change.

Ultimately, though, what’s needed is a transformation in the way rivers are valued - so that the diverse benefits they provide to people and nature are no longer overlooked and undervalued but taken into account by decision-makers.