Global Wetlands Summit in Zimbabwe Sets 2034 Targets for Ecosystem Restoration
Government officials, scientists, and community leaders from around the world convened in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, in July for the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP15) on Wetlands. The global summit resulted in 25 resolutions, and the adoption of the Victoria Falls Declaration, prioritising sustainable conservation and the restoration of wetland ecosystems. Among the key outcomes was the Fifth Strategic Plan, which aims to halt and reverse wetland loss by 2034, alongside commitments to protect migratory birds and establish a Global Waterbird Estimates Partnership.
Wetlands are disappearing at a rate three times faster than forests, posing a significant threat to global biodiversity and climate goals. With more than 411 million hectares lost since 1970, the Global Wetland Outlook calls for the conservation and restoration of 550 million hectares to meet international targets. Despite their estimated annual value of up to $39 trillion, wetlands receive only 0.25% of global GDP in conservation funding. COP15 resolutions highlighted the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern science, particularly from Indigenous peoples, youth, women, and local communities, to ensure effective and inclusive restoration efforts.
Source: Mongabay
