Ramsar COP15 Advances Global Wetland Conservation Efforts
The 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (COP15) took place from 23 to 31 July 2025 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Over 3,000 delegates from 172 countries gathered to address the accelerating loss of wetlands worldwide. This summit brought into light urgent actions to protect these vital ecosystems, which have declined by 35 per cent since 1970, posing severe ecological and economic risks.
Significance of Wetlands and Current Challenges
Wetlands are crucial for maintaining planetary health. They filter pollutants, regulate water cycles, store carbon and support biodiversity. Despite covering only 6 per cent of the Earth’s surface, wetlands contribute ecosystem services valued at over 7.5 per cent of global GDP. However, they face threats from urbanisation, agriculture, climate change and infrastructure development. The Global Wetland Outlook 2025 report warns that 20 per cent of wetlands could vanish by 2050, potentially causing losses worth $39 trillion in ecosystem services.
Key Outcomes of COP15
COP15 centred on the adoption of the Victoria Falls Declaration. This framework commits nations to enhanced wetland restoration and integration of wetlands into climate and development policies. Delegates discussed establishing a Global Wetland Restoration Fund to finance conservation efforts. The conference also emphasised technological innovation and multi-stakeholder collaboration to reverse wetland degradation.
Zimbabwe’s Role and Leadership
Zimbabwe assumed the Ramsar Convention presidency for three years, succeeding China. As host nation, Zimbabwe showcased its commitment through its seven Ramsar Sites, including Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The country aims to lead global efforts by promoting wetland restoration as a key climate mitigation strategy. Zimbabwe’s leadership is expected to drive global momentum for sustainable wetland management.
Strategic Plans and Regional Cooperation
The meeting included preparatory sessions by regional groups from Africa, Europe, Oceania, Asia, the Americas and the Caribbean. These sessions aligned priorities and shaped draft resolutions. The Strategic Plan 2025-2034 was a major agenda item, outlining long-term goals for wetland conservation. Regional cooperation remains vital for addressing transboundary water issues and sharing best practices.
Wetlands and Sustainable Development Goals
Wetlands contribute directly to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including clean water, climate action, biodiversity, and poverty alleviation. COP15 reinforced the need to integrate wetland conservation into national policies to achieve these goals. Healthy wetlands support agriculture, fisheries, tourism and disaster risk reduction, making their protection essential for sustainable development.
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