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PrelimsEnvironment | Conservation

Prelim Bit: Ramsar Convention and Wetlands

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Why in news?

Wetlands and Ramsar Sites are in the news whenever a new site is added to the list or a wetland is threatened. This sample note shows the Prelim Bits format with the basics you should know.

Background

The Convention on Wetlands was signed in 1971 at Ramsar, Iran, and is known as the Ramsar Convention. It provides a framework for the conservation and wise use of wetlands. Sites that meet the criteria are listed as Wetlands of International Importance, or Ramsar Sites.

Key points

  • Wetlands include marshes, fens, peatlands, lakes, rivers, mangroves, coral reefs and even paddy fields, as well as man-made sites such as reservoirs.
  • The Ramsar Convention is an inter-governmental treaty; it is not a part of the UN system, although UNESCO is the depositary.
  • World Wetlands Day is observed on 2 February.
  • In India, wetlands are also regulated by the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules.

Prelims pointers

  • Do not confuse the Ramsar Convention (wetlands) with the Montreal Protocol (ozone) or the CBD (biodiversity).
  • Ramsar listing does not by itself change a site’s legal protection under Indian law.
Prelim Bit: Ramsar Convention and Wetlands | Kurukshetra IAS