In a significant boost to global wetland conservation efforts, thirty-one cities from five continents were officially added to the Wetland City Accreditation scheme in January 2025. The announcement was made during the 64th meeting of the Standing Committee of the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar Convention), underscoring a growing international commitment to protecting and sustainably managing urban wetlands.
The newly accredited cities come from diverse regions, illustrating the universal importance of wetlands in urban environments. The list of cities includes:
- Argentina: Trelew
- Belgium: Mechelen
- Botswana: Kasane-Kazungula, Shakawe
- Chile: Valdivia
- China: Chongming, Dali, Fuzhou, Hangzhou, Jiujiang, Lhasa, Suzhou, Wenzhou, Yueyang
- France: Abbeville, Arles, Hampigny
- India: Indore, Udaipur
- Iran: Babol, Bandar Kiashar, Gandoman
- Japan: Nagoya City
- Morocco: Mehdya
- Philippines: Balanga City
- Poland: Poznan
- Republic of Korea: Gimhae, Mungyeong
- Serbia: Novi Sad
- Switzerland: Geneva
- Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls
These cities have been recognized for their proactive and innovative approaches to conserving wetlands within highly urbanized settings, demonstrating how urban development can coexist with ecological stewardship.
Wetlands within and near cities are vital ecosystems that perform multiple ecological, economic, and social functions. They act as natural buffers, absorbing excess floodwaters during storms and heavy rains, thus protecting urban infrastructure and communities from flood damage. Wetlands also act as natural water filters, removing pollutants and improving water quality before it reaches rivers, lakes, and groundwater supplies.
Ecologically, urban wetlands provide habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are rare or endangered. This biodiversity contributes to the health and resilience of ecosystems, supporting broader environmental stability. Beyond their ecological value, wetlands offer city residents green spaces for recreation, relaxation, and education, contributing to improved mental and physical health.
Moreover, wetlands can be an engine of sustainable economic activity. Many of the newly accredited cities benefit from ecotourism centered around their wetlands, drawing visitors keen to experience unique natural landscapes and wildlife. Fisheries and sustainable agriculture also depend on healthy wetland ecosystems, providing livelihoods to local communities while maintaining environmental balance.
Despite their importance, urban wetlands are increasingly threatened by rapid urban expansion, pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. Industrial waste, untreated sewage, and encroachment from infrastructure projects have severely impacted wetland health in many cities. Limited funding for conservation and competing demands for land often hamper effective management efforts.
The Wetland City Accreditation program encourages cities to address these challenges through comprehensive conservation strategies. Accredited cities have adopted policies to reduce industrial discharges, restore degraded wetland areas, and promote sustainable land use practices. Community engagement and education campaigns have also been crucial in raising awareness and fostering local stewardship of wetland resources.
Established in 2015 by the Ramsar Convention Secretariat, the Wetland City Accreditation program aims to recognize cities that demonstrate strong leadership in integrating wetland conservation into urban development. To qualify, cities must meet strict criteria including active protection and restoration of wetlands, incorporation of wetlands in urban planning, and involvement of local communities in wetland management.
The accreditation provides a platform for cities to share best practices, learn from each other, and gain international recognition for their efforts. It also encourages continued commitment to the sustainable use and conservation of wetlands as vital urban assets.
The addition of these 31 cities in 2025 marks a milestone for the Wetland City Accreditation program, reflecting increased global awareness of the role urban wetlands play in climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development. As cities continue to grow, balancing urbanization with the preservation of natural ecosystems will be essential to building healthier, more livable environments.
Collaboration among governments, private sectors, NGOs, and communities remains key to overcoming ongoing challenges. With their accreditation, these cities set examples for others worldwide, proving that urban growth and wetland conservation can go hand in hand to create a sustainable future.
