WWT | 80 years and onwards
WWT 1946-2026: The birthplace of modern conservation
The birthplace of modern conservation, WWT was founded at Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, in 1946 by visionary Sir Peter Scott. Sir Peter was a determined optimist, campaigning for species as well as wetland habitats, which support wildlife, people, communities, and the planet.
In 2026, as the UK's leading wetland conservation charity, WWT is celebrating 80 years of unlocking the power of wetlands. Because when wetlands thrive, so do we.
To mark this incredible occasion, we're looking back fondly on the past, through stories from our staff members and supporters. We'll also be celebrating where we are now with special events, and casting an eye to the future, and what the next 80 years might hold.
What WWT means to you
We wouldn't be where we are today without our incredible people, volunteers, members and supporters, giving us their time, creativity, kindness and support. Watch the video to hear about what WWT means to our people, and some of their favourite memories.
Our history: 80 years of wetland conservation
Reflecting on where we've come from is just as important as setting out our ambitious vision for the future.
Since the 1940s, we've been on a mission to restore wetlands and make sure they thrive long into the future, providing benefits for people and wildlife. Protecting wetlands, saving wildlife, and shareing wetlands' superpowers with people is baked into our DNA.
What started with one man's interest in the humble goose, has turned into something rather special.
Our present: conservation in action
Learn more about some of our projects going on right now and the inspiring people making them happen. Check out all our current projects.
Our future: Restoring and protecting wetlands for years to come
Our conservation projects in the UK and beyond are strengthening the link between wetlands, wildlife and people. Our strategy to 2030 set out some ambitious aims, and we're just starting some exciting new programmes that will help us achieve them.
Creating bigger, better and more connected wetlands is not something we can do alone. Our ambitious target to create and restore 100,000 hectares of wetland habitat in the UK, as well as improving protections for the habitat we already have, rests on the support of our partners.
If you're interested in learning more about our future plans, find out more here. You can also learn more about what it means to work with us, as a Corporate Partner.
Feeling inspired?
We rely on your memberships, donations, time and support to help us deliver for wetlands and the wildlife that depend on them. You truly are at the heart of everything we do and we can't thank you enough for all you do for wetlands.
If you're feeling inspired by our 80th anniversary stories, here's how you can get involved.