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All are cordially Invited for the programme
All are cordially Invited for the programme
*WORLD WETLANDS DAY- 2018*
World Wetlands Day is celebrated on 2nd February each year. It marks the day of adoption of RAMSAR Convention for the conservation of Wetlands in the Iranian City of RAMSAR on this day.
It started in 1997 and is in the 22nd year running.
Wetlands defined as areas of land that are either temporarily or permanently covered by water exhibit enormous diversity according to their genesis, geographical location, water regime and chemistry. Wetlands are one of the most productive ecosystems and play crucial role in hydrological cycle. Utility wise, wetlands directly and indirectly support millions of people in providing services such as storm and flood control, clean water supply, food, fiber and raw materials, scenic beauty, educational and recreational benefits.(National Wetland Atlas Kerala 2010).
Under the text of the RAMSAR Convention (Article 1.1) wetlands are defined as: “areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six meters”. In addition, the Convention (Article 2.1) provides that wetlands: “may incorporate riparian and coastal zones adjacent to the wetlands, and islands or bodies of marine water deeper than six meters at low tide lying within the wetlands”.
In October 2018 in Dubai, during the 13th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, we will be recognizing the first cities to obtain Wetland City Accreditation under our Convention.
Reduce flooding Replenish drinking water. Filter waste and improve water quality. Improve urban air quality. Promote human well-being. Enable people to earn a living.
The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment estimates conservatively that wetlands cover seven percent of the earth’s surface and deliver 45% of the world’s natural productivity and ecosystem services of which the benefits are estimated at $20 trillion a year (Source: www.MAweb.org).
Around 64% of the earth’s wetlands are estimated to have disappeared worldwide over the last hundred years through conversion to industrial, agricultural and residential developments.
In Kerala 4354 Wetlands covering 1660590 Ha.
Ernakulam has Second largest area of Wetlands in Kerala after Aleppey district.
Ernakulam has 25065 Ha wetlands. (10.41% of the geographical area of the district.).
That is 15.61% of the total wetland area.
Ernakulam Wetlands: - 354 nos.
To make the cities sustainable into the future:-
Include Wetlands in urban land use planning.
Preserve and restore urban wetlands.
Involve local residents in wetland planning.
Reduce water consumption and harmful runoff.
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