Iran Takes on Leadership Role as Vice-Chair at Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

In a significant development for environmental conservation, Iran has been elected as the Vice-Chair for the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. This important event is taking place from July 23 to July 31 in Victoria Falls City, Zimbabwe, under the theme “Protecting Wetlands for our Common Future.” The primary focus of COP15 is to adopt a new strategic plan for the period 2025-2034, marking the fifth action plan of the Ramsar Convention.

The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, signed in 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar, serves as a crucial framework for international cooperation on wetland conservation. Officially in force since 1975, the convention has expanded to include numerous countries as Contracting Parties, with Saudi Arabia recently becoming the 173rd member, as reported by ISNA.

During COP15, three Iranian cities—Babol in northern Mazandaran province, Kiashahr in northern Gilan province, and Gandoman in southwestern Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari province—were awarded wetland city accreditation certificates. This recognition highlights each city’s commitment to wetland conservation, sustainable practices, and the integration of wetland conservation into urban planning.

Key points about the Wetland City Accreditation include:

• Assessment by an Independent Advisory Committee.
• Proposals submitted by the Contracting Party through its Ramsar National Focal Point.
• Criteria based on commitment to wetland conservation and community engagement.

At the 64th meeting of the Standing Committee, a total of 31 newly accredited Wetland Cities were announced. Notably, Bandar Khamir, located near the Khorkhoran International Wetland in Hormozgan province, was recognized as the first wetland city in Iran by the Ramsar Convention in 2022. In the same year, Varzaneh in Isfahan province and Bandar Khamir, close to the Gavkhuni International Wetland, also received similar recognition, according to Arezou Ashrafizadeh, an official with the Department of Environment (DOE).

In Iran, there are currently 25 sites designated as Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Sites), covering a vast area of 1,488,624 hectares. This highlights the country’s dedication to wetland conservation and sustainable management.

Understanding the Wetland City Accreditation Scheme

The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, backed by its 172 Contracting Parties, emphasizes the conservation and wise use of wetlands. Recognizing the vital role of cities and urban wetlands, the Convention has introduced a Wetland City accreditation scheme (Resolution XII.10). This voluntary initiative aims to acknowledge cities that appreciate their natural or human-made wetlands, providing them with international recognition and positive publicity for their environmental efforts.

The benefits of the Wetland City Accreditation scheme include:

• Encouragement for cities near Wetlands of International Importance to enhance their relationship with these ecosystems.
• Increased public awareness and participation in municipal planning related to wetlands.
• Promotion of sustainable socio-economic benefits for local communities.

Urban wetlands are often undervalued, but they should be seen as prized land rather than wasteland. Their integration into urban development and management plans is essential. When preserved and sustainably managed, urban wetlands can offer a range of economic, social, and cultural advantages. For instance:

• Urban wetlands help absorb excess rainfall during storms, reducing the risk of flooding and associated disasters.
• The vegetation in these wetlands acts as a natural filter for domestic and industrial waste, significantly improving water quality.

In summary, the election of Iran as the Vice-Chair at COP15 and the recognition of its cities for wetland conservation reflect a growing commitment to protecting these vital ecosystems. The Ramsar Convention continues to play a crucial role in fostering international cooperation and promoting sustainable practices for wetland conservation.