A Ramsar Site is a wetland site designated to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. The Convention on Wetlands, known as the Ramsar Convention, is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources.
Criteria for Designation as a Ramsar Site
For a wetland to be designated as a Ramsar Site, it must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- It contains a representative, rare, or unique example of a natural or near-natural wetland type
- It supports vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered species or threatened ecological communities
- It supports populations of plant and/or animal species important for maintaining the biological diversity of a particular biogeographic region
- It supports plant and/or animal species at a critical stage in their life cycles, or provides refuge during adverse conditions
- It regularly supports 20,000 or more waterbirds
- It regularly supports 1% of the individuals in a population of one species or subspecies of waterbird
- It supports a significant proportion of indigenous fish subspecies, species, or families, life-history stages, species interactions, and/or populations that are representative of wetland benefits and/or values and thereby contributes to global biological diversity
Difference Between Ramsar Site and Simsar Site
Ramsar Site: As mentioned, Ramsar Sites are wetlands of international importance. Their designation is based on their significant ecological, botanical, zoological, limnological, or hydrological importance. The primary goal of the Ramsar Convention is the "wise use" of all wetlands.
Simsar Site (in Nepal): The term "Simsar" in Nepal refers to community-managed wetlands. The Simsar program was initiated to promote community-based wetland management. While Ramsar Sites are of international importance, Simsar Sites are more localized in their significance and management. The primary goal of Simsar Sites is to ensure sustainable use and management of wetlands by involving local communities.
Ramsar Sites in Nepal
Nepal, with its diverse topography, is home to several wetlands of significance. Some of the Ramsar Sites in Nepal include Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Beeshazar and Associated Lakes, Ghodaghodi Tal, and Jagdishpur Reservoir. These sites are not only ecologically important but also play a vital role in supporting local communities through resources and tourism.
In Conclusion
Ramsar Sites are a testament to the global commitment to preserving wetlands. These sites, whether in Nepal or elsewhere, play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, supporting biodiversity, and providing resources for human sustenance and well-being.