Welcoming New Ramsar Sites: Protecting Wetlands of International Importance скачать в хорошем качестве

Welcoming New Ramsar Sites: Protecting Wetlands of International Importance

📜 *History of the Ramsar Convention* The *Ramsar Convention on Wetlands* is the world’s *first global environmental treaty* focused specifically on the conservation and wise use of wetlands. --- 🕰️ Origins (Pre-1971) During the **1950s–1960s**, scientists and conservationists grew concerned about the **rapid loss of wetlands**, especially those crucial for **migratory waterbirds**. Europe, Africa, and Asia saw sharp declines in wetland habitats due to: Drainage for agriculture Urbanisation Industrial development This led to international discussions on creating a *legal framework* to protect wetlands across national borders. --- ✍️ Adoption of the Convention (1971) The Ramsar Convention was **adopted on 2 February 1971**. It was signed in the city of **Ramsar**, located on the **Caspian Sea coast of Iran**. Hence, the treaty is formally called: 👉 *“The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat.”* --- 🌍 Entry into Force (1975) The Convention **came into force in 1975**, after the required number of countries ratified it. This marked the beginning of **international cooperation for wetland conservation**. --- 🪶 Initial Focus Initially, the Convention focused mainly on: *Waterfowl and migratory birds* Wetlands important for bird habitats Over time, its scope expanded to include: *Biodiversity conservation* *Climate regulation* *Flood control* *Livelihood support* --- 🔄 Evolution and Expansion The Ramsar Convention gradually evolved from a *species-centric treaty* to an **ecosystem-based conservation framework**. Key developments included: Emphasis on *“wise use of wetlands”* (sustainable use rather than strict protection) Recognition of wetlands’ role in *climate change mitigation and adaptation* Integration of wetlands into *national development planning* --- 🏛️ Institutional Development The Convention established: *Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP)* – main decision-making body *Ramsar Secretariat* (based in Gland, Switzerland) *Scientific and Technical Review Panel (STRP)* to provide scientific guidance COP meetings are held **every three years**. --- 🇮🇳 India and the Ramsar Convention India became a **Contracting Party in 1982**. *Chilika Lake (Odisha)* and *Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan)* were among India’s earliest Ramsar Sites. Since then, India has actively expanded its Ramsar network. --- 🌱 World Wetlands Day *2 February* (the date of signing in 1971) is celebrated every year as 👉 *World Wetlands Day* The day raises awareness about the importance of wetlands worldwide. --- 🔑 Key Milestones at a Glance | Year | Event | | --------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------ | | 1950s–60s | Growing concern over wetland loss | | *1971* | Ramsar Convention adopted in Ramsar, Iran | | *1975* | Convention came into force | | *1982* | India joined the Convention | | Present | Global treaty covering wetlands, biodiversity & climate resilience | --- 📝 One-Line Exam-Ready Summary 👉 *The Ramsar Convention, adopted in 1971 at Ramsar (Iran), is the world’s first international treaty dedicated to the conservation and wise use of wetlands.* --- If you want, I can also prepare: ✔️ *UPSC / APSC answer-writing notes* ✔️ *Timeline-based revision sheet* ✔️ *MCQs from Ramsar Convention history* Just tell me 👍