Side event details

This high-level side event at COP15 brings together global leaders, technical experts, and city representatives to showcase the power of wetlands in transforming urban landscapes into resilient, livable, and sustainable spaces. The event will spotlight the Wetland City Accreditation Scheme, an initiative under the Ramsar Convention that recognizes cities making exceptional efforts to protect, sustainably manage, and integrate wetlands into urban planning. 

Featuring contributions from Japan, Korea, South Africa, and China, the session will highlight diverse experiences and success stories of cities and communities that have prioritized wetland conservation. It will also promote key tools like the Wetland City Network to build local capacity, foster international recognition, and attract investment for urban wetland management. 

Key highlights include: 

• Reflections from Nagoya City on its conservation efforts. 

• Insights into post-accreditation strategies from globally recognized Wetland Cities across Asia, Africa, and Europe. 

• A focus on communication, education, and the power of local leadership and civic engagement in wetland conservation. 

This dynamic session aims to educate, inspire, and mobilize cities around the world to join the Wetland City movement and protect wetlands for people and the planet.