World Wetlands Day and Ramsar Convention

World Wetlands Day and Ramsar Convention

Why in the News?

On February 2, World Wetlands Day was observed with a special focus on the Ramsar Convention, India’s expanding list of Ramsar Sites, and key global facts on wetland conservation, governance, and international environmental cooperation. This year’s celebration also highlighted the importance of environmental clearances and the role of environmental jurisprudence in protecting these crucial ecosystems.

 

World Wetlands Day and the Ramsar Convention:

  • World Wetlands Day is observed annually on February 2, marking the signing of the Ramsar Convention in Ramsar in 1971.
  • The Convention is an intergovernmental treaty that provides a framework for the conservation and wise use of wetlands at national and international levels, emphasizing the need for environmental impact assessments in wetland management.
  • Wetlands are recognised for their role in biodiversity conservation, water regulation, climate mitigation, and livelihood security. Their protection often requires environmental clearances and adherence to the Forest Conservation Act.
  • The theme for World Wetlands Day 2026 focuses on strengthening awareness about wetlands as critical ecosystems under threat from urbanisation and climate change, highlighting the importance of ex-post facto environmental clearances for existing developments.
  • The quiz format helps popularise environmental knowledge, aligning with global efforts to mainstream ecological literacy and promote environmental democracy.

Global Ramsar Sites: Distribution and Key Facts

  • The Ramsar Convention classifies wetlands into three broad types: marine/coastal wetlands, inland wetlands, and human-made wetlands. Coastal wetlands often fall under the Coastal Regulation Zone guidelines.
  • United Kingdom has the highest number of Ramsar Sites (176), reflecting extensive designation of wetlands and stringent environmental clearance processes.
  • Bolivia has the largest wetland area under Ramsar protection, covering about 2,67,000 sq km, showcasing the country’s commitment to environmental jurisprudence.
  • The Convention emphasises not just protection but “wise use”, integrating wetlands into sustainable development planning and applying the precautionary principle in wetland management.
  • Ramsar Sites are chosen based on criteria such as ecological uniqueness, support to migratory species, and hydrological importance, often requiring comprehensive environmental impact assessments.

Key points : India and Ramsar Sites
– India ranks third globally in terms of the number of Ramsar Sites, with 75 designated wetlands.
– The first two Indian sites to be included under the Ramsar Convention in October 1981 were Chilika Lake and Keoladeo National Park.
– Ramsar designation strengthens international recognition, conservation funding, and policy focus on wetland ecosystems, often necessitating retrospective environmental clearances for existing developments.
– Wetlands in India support flood control, groundwater recharge, fisheries, and biodiversity, including migratory birds, and their management is guided by the polluter pays principle.