Published on: 2026-08-27
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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August 27, 2026 Climate and Environment
Today, August 27, the world observes World Lakes Day, established by the United Nations to raise awareness about the importance of lakes and the need for sustainable management of lake ecosystems. This date is intended to remind humanity that lakes are not only a picturesque part of the natural landscape but also one of the most important resources directly affecting human well-being, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
“When you think of water, you most likely imagine rivers rushing to the sea, or waves crashing on tropical shores,” noted Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), in her message timed to today’s date. “However, we should not forget that the quiet giants of our freshwater systems – lakes – hold 90 percent of the planet’s surface freshwater reserves.”
Lakes play an exceptional role in sustaining life on the planet: they provide freshwater to the population, agriculture, and industry; serve as habitats for countless species of fish, birds, plants, and other living organisms. It is precisely thanks to lake ecosystems that a significant portion of Earth’s biological diversity is preserved, and many communities earn their livelihoods through fishing, tourism, and related economic activities.
The Significance of Lakes
The significance of lakes goes far beyond water supply. They help mitigate the effects of climate change by accumulating carbon, retaining floodwaters, and reducing temperature fluctuations in surrounding regions. Lakes serve as natural regulators of the water regime, contributing to the protection of settlements and agricultural areas from floods and droughts.
© A. Kleshchev According to UN estimates, there are more than 117 million lakes on Earth.
According to UN estimates, there are more than 117 million lakes on Earth, covering almost four percent of the land area. Lake Baikal holds a special place among them as the largest reservoir of liquid fresh water on the planet. Its significance goes far beyond national borders.
“Baikal is one of the unique natural treasures of Russia and the whole world. It is not only a national heritage but also a natural territory of global significance. Preserving Baikal requires special attention, modern approaches, and effective nature protection tools,” says Sergey Rybakov, General Director of the ‘Nature and People’ Foundation.
Although the majority of the planet’s fresh water is contained in glaciers and underground aquifers, it is the lakes that serve as one of the most accessible sources of water for humans. At the same time, experts believe they receive insufficient attention.
“Despite their importance, lakes remain among the least studied bodies of water on Earth,” reminds UNEP chief Inger Andersen. “Unlike rivers, which often have hydrological stations installed, lakes are insufficiently studied, especially in low- and middle-income countries.”
Negative trends and alarming forecasts
Population growth, intensive agriculture, industrial development, and urbanization are placing increasing pressure on aquatic ecosystems. Pollution from fertilizers, pesticides, industrial effluents, and solid waste leads to water quality deterioration, reduced oxygen levels, and degradation of aquatic habitats. Many harmful substances enter lakes not only directly but also through rivers connecting entire watersheds.
Climate change becomes an additional risk factor. The rise in air temperature and the reduction of ice cover accelerate water evaporation and affect lake levels. Extreme weather events, including heavy rains and floods, are becoming more frequent, further increasing the burden on lake ecosystems. Scientists note that changes in water levels in many lakes around the world are occurring today significantly faster than in previous decades.
Disturbing trends are also reflected in the state of wildlife. According to data from the World Wildlife Fund, the populations of freshwater species have on average declined by 85 percent since 1970. This is the most significant decline among all major ecosystems on the planet and a serious signal that the health of rivers, lakes, and wetlands is rapidly deteriorating.
Alarming forecasts require decisive action. If current trends continue, by mid-century the ecological value of lakes could decrease by roughly 20 percent, pollution levels more than double, and methane emissions from degrading water bodies significantly increase. This will lead not only to environmental losses but also to serious economic consequences for millions of people.
World Lake Day reminds us that protecting lake ecosystems is not only an environmental task but also an important condition for sustainable development. Preserving clean water, rational use of natural resources, and overall pollution reduction will help conserve lakes for future generations. The condition of these unique ecosystems affects human quality of life, food security, climate stability, and the preservation of Earth’s biodiversity.
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