LAKES, one of the most vital natural resources, play a key role in maintaining biodiversity by providing habitats for countless species of fish, plants, and wildlife. They are also a crucial source of freshwater, supplying not only drinking water but also supporting agriculture and other human activities.

The United Nations stated that there are more than 117 million lakes on Earth, covering about four per cent of the planet’s land surface. Holding over 90 per cent of the Earth’s surface freshwa­ter, lakes are lifelines for drinking water, food security, climate regulation, and biodiversity. Yet, they face growing threats from pollution, overuse, and climate change.

Due to environmental degradation and other fac­tors, lake areas have been shrinking worldwide. Scien­tists estimate that by 2050, the ecosystem value of lakes could decline by 20 per cent, while pollution is expected to more than double. Moreover, freshwater species popula­tions have already declined by 85 per cent over the past 50 years.

The United Nations has set a general theme for World Lake Day: ‘The lifeblood of our planet’. In 2025, the overarch­ing global theme for water-re­lated observances is ‘Glacier Preservation’, linked to World Water Day 2025 and the In­ternational Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. Across conti­nents, communities gathered along shores and riversides to reflect on the essential role lakes play in human life and nature.

Large lakes in Myanmar, such as Inlay, Indawgyi, and Inya, are vital water sources for their respective regions and play a key role in conserving the natural environment. They provide habitats for diverse species and serve as resting and hibernation sites for migratory birds, helping to maintain ecological balance and harmo­nize climatic conditions for both wildlife and human communities.

World Lake Day 2025, which falls on 27 August, was not just a commemoration but also a “call to action”. Governments of global countries pledged stronger protection policies, non-governmental organizations launched awareness campaigns, and local commu­nities renewed their commitment to sustainable practices. For many, it was a day of reflection—and a promise that by protecting lakes, humanity safeguards its own survival, ensuring clean water, rich biodiversity, and resilient livelihoods for generations to come.

Everyone around the world is responsible for conserving lakes, invaluable natural resources, to prevent their disappearance and minimize degradation. Indeed, the loss and deterioration of the world’s lakes threaten the continued existence of human societies and the survival of other living beings. Therefore, people every­where must work to ensure the long-term preservation of lakes, the lifeblood of the Earth.