Global Wetland Watch platform launched: a new open window on the world’s wetlands

DHI and partners have officially launched the preview version of the Global Wetland Watch (GWW) platform, making decades of advances in Earth observation available through a single, open and globally consistent platform.

The preview launch coincides with World Wetlands Day 2026 and provides early access ahead of the full platform release scheduled for December 2026.

Explore the Global Wetland Watch map

Wetlands are among the most important ecosystems on the planet. They regulate water flows, capture and store carbon, buffer communities against floods and droughts, support biodiversity, and sustain livelihoods and cultural heritage worldwide. Despite their importance, wetlands continue to decline globally, often due to inconsistent monitoring approaches and limited access to reliable data.

A global, data‑driven view of wetland change

Funded by Google.org and powered by Google Earth Engine, Global Wetland Watch combines satellite imagery, artificial intelligence, and hydrological expertise to provide a consistent global picture of wetlands and how they change over time.

The platform is developed through a collaboration between DHI, the UNEP–DHI Partnership – Centre on Water and Environment, and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

From experts to communities

By making advanced Earth observation analytics openly accessible, Global Wetland Watch lowers the barrier to engaging with wetland data. Governments, NGOs, researchers, Indigenous Peoples, and local communities can explore wetland extent and dynamics without the need for specialist software or advanced technical expertise.

Preview now, full launch later this year

The current release represents a public preview of the Global Wetland Watch platform. Additional datasets and capabilities will be introduced ahead of the full platform launch in December 2026.