Side event details

As one of the most productive coastal ecosystems, mangroves and other wetlands provide essential ecological functions and play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, freshwater regulation, and sustainable development. However, mangroves and wetlands are rapidly degrading due to deforestation, pollution, and climate change. This trend has also impacted progress on global goals such as SDG 6.6.1, which tracks changes in water-related ecosystems.

Aligned with the theme of COP15, this side event will bring together experts, policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders to exchange insights and advance global mangrove and wetland conservation through international cooperation, scientific innovation, community engagement, and progress on achieving SDG 6.6.1.

The first part of the event, led by the IMC, will consist of a brief welcome, an overview of the IMC and a keynote session highlighting international cooperation, innovative monitoring technologies, and community-based approaches to mangrove conservation. The second part, led by the UAE, will feature a panel discussion exploring how the Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC) bridges gaps in SDG 6.6.1 implementation, highlighting the role of mangroves in water cycle regulation, pollution reduction, and ecosystem-based adaptation, with case studies from MAC member countries on successful wetland restoration efforts.

The expected outcomes include fostering international cooperation, exploring policy recommendations, supporting SDG implementation, and sharing innovative conservation approaches and successful community-led experiences. Key insights and actions will be documented and shared with COP15 participants and relevant stakeholders to support future initiatives.

IMC-led Part

18:30-18:33  Welcoming speech from the IMC

                     Prof. BAO Daming, Director General of the Interim Secretariat of IMC

18:33-18:40  IMC Overview and Strategic Initiatives

                     Mr. PENG Peng, Director of the Interim Secretariat of IMC

                     Moderator: Mrs. NARISOA Andoniaina, Ramsar National Focal Point, Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, Madagascar

18:40-19:10  Keynote Session

                     1. Strengthening International Cooperation for Mangrove Conservation: WWF’s Strategy and Practice

                     Ms. Christine Colvin, Freshwater Policy Lead, WWF International

                     2. IUCN Red List of Ecosystems

                     Mr. Luther Bois Anukur, Regional Director - Eastern and Southern Africa, IUCN

                     3. Wetland Conservation through Social Participation: From Shenzhen to China

                     Ms. SUN Lili, Founder/Honorary Board Chairwoman of Mangrove Conservation Foundation (MCF), China

                     Moderator: Dr. LY Sophanna, Chief of Office, Ministry of Environment, Cambodia

UAE-led Part

19:10-19:13  Brief introduction from the UAE

19:13-19:40  Panel Discussion (Exploring how MAC helps bridge gaps in SDG 6.6.1 implementation. This panel will highlight case studies from MAC member       

                     countries, focusing on successful wetland restoration efforts and nature-based solutions for water-related challenges.)

                     Speaker & Moderator: TBD

This meeting will also be accessible online via Zoom. Meeting ID: 823 2396 8871 Passcode: 430209