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Urban wetlands provide significant environmental, economic, and social benefits; however, their effective conservation necessitates an integrated approach that combines robust policy measures, active community engagement, and innovative solutions.
Image Source: United Nations
Urbanization is changing human settlement patterns, with half of the world’s population in urban areas. This threatens wetland conservation as cities expand and land demand increases, leading to wetlands being targeted for development. Sustaining urban wetlands requires a comprehensive strategy integrating robust policy interventions, active community engagement, and innovative solutions.
One strategy is adopting a wetland-friendly urban and planning design. This entails prioritizing the restoration of degraded wetland ecosystems, enforcing encroachment prevention measures, and integrating wetlands into city development frameworks. Community engagement is crucial, as locals have an in-depth knowledge of their ecosystems, fostering an interest in their preservation. Innovative approaches like the constructed wetlands in Hamburg, Germany, demonstrate nature-based solutions for improved water quality and sustainable drainage systems.
The Wetland City Accreditation scheme, which is administered by the Convention on Wetlands, honors communities that have made significant efforts in wetland conservation. This initiative aims to highlight cities that have made significant steps toward the conservation and wise use of wetlands. Currently, 43 accredited Wetland Cities have demonstrated a strong commitment to wetland conservation through policies, projects, and community engagement.
Wetlands in urban and rural areas provide ecological sustainability, natural resources, and economic prosperity. They support local livelihoods, offer sustainable aquaculture and agricultural practices, and protect communities from natural disasters like droughts, floods, and storm surges. They also serve as natural buffers against adverse effects.
Reference:
Mumba, M. (14, January 2025). Wetlands of International Importance are nature-based solutions for ensuring life and livelihoods. Retrieved April 23, 2025 from https://www.ramsar.org/news/wetlands-international-importance-are-nature-based-solutions-ensuring-life-livelihoods
