Wise Use Principle
One of the pillars, the wise use of wetlands is simply sustainable use of wetlands using ecosystem approach. The wise use principle appreciates the fact that ecosystem services of the wetlands are to be utilized for human well-being and land-use change for development is bound to happen, but such utilization should be subjected to nondisturbance of ecological character of the wetland (combination of components, processes, and services) and within the limits of sustainable development. In other words, a trade-off is made between the loss of ecosystem services due to degradation of wetlands, and development and economic gain, while ensuring that degradation of wetlands is not pushed beyond their regeneration capacity.
The guidelines on wise use encourage parties to:
- Enact laws, adopt policies and establish institutions for wise use of wetlands.
- Educate and train people and spread public awareness regarding wise use approach and establish a mechanism for inventory management and monitoring.
- Take action on the field, ensuring their wise use and reverse any practice harming the wetland ecosystem.
Wetlands and Wise Use Principle of the Ramsar Convention
Wetlands are distinct ecosystems, that are flooded either permanently or temporarily resulting in an anoxic (oxygen-free) environment and hydric soils. These may be considered as ecotones, providing a transition between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. These are characterized by the hydric soils and hydrophytes (aquatic plants) adapted to wetland conditions.
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