Ramsar Wetlands of the North American West Coast and Central Pacific: An Atlas

The first comprehensive international atlas of Ramsar wetlands, featuring remote sensing and mapping, provides valuable information on how these wetlands are of significant value to the planet and society. It highlights the importance of wetland conservation and restoration and introduces the contributions of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands to global conservation and restoration.

Format: Hardback
Length: 341 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This is the first comprehensive international atlas featuring all ecological services provided by Ramsar wetlands, with complete views of all Ramsar sites, through remote sensing and mapping. Written by an international expert on wetlands and remote sensing, this atlas is for a broad audience and compiles much-needed information on how the Ramsar wetlands are of significant value to the planet and society and can and should be managed in such a way that supports planetary sustainability. Focused on the 72 designated Ramsar sites along the western coasts of Alaska, Canada, California, Mexico, and the Central Pacific islands, each wetland is articulately documented with respect to its specific ecological functions and services.

FEATURES

Provides a comprehensive assessment of the key biophysical and societal elements of each Ramsar-designated wetland along the North American West Coast and Central Pacific.

Brings all designated Ramsar wetlands to the reader in one visually appealing compendium using geospatial technology.

Aids in highlighting the importance of and options for wetland conservation and restoration worldwide.

Explains the important role that wetlands play in environmental sustainability, directly supporting the global sustainable development goals of the United Nations.

Introduces the contributions of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands to global conservation and restoration.

This atlas is intended for wetland managers and policymakers involved in the Ramsar Convention activities and for wetland ecologists and other allied environmental scientists and practitioners, such as hydrologists, microbiologists, and botanists. It is also a valuable resource for researchers, faculty, and graduate students affiliated with programs such as wetland ecology, wetland management, and environmental science.

The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is an international treaty that aims to protect and conserve wetlands of international importance. It was established in 1971 by the United Nations and has since grown to include over 2,000 designated wetlands in more than 160 countries. The convention's primary goal is to promote the sustainable use of wetlands by providing a framework for their management, conservation, and monitoring.

One of the key features of the Ramsar Convention is its comprehensive approach to wetland conservation. The convention recognizes that wetlands play a critical role in supporting biodiversity, providing water resources, regulating climate, and supporting human livelihoods. It also recognizes that wetlands are vulnerable to a range of threats, including pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change.

To address these threats, the Ramsar Convention has developed a set of guidelines and standards for wetland management. These guidelines are designed to ensure that wetlands are managed in a way that supports their ecological functions and services while also promoting sustainable development. For example, wetland managers may be required to implement measures to reduce pollution, restore degraded habitats, and manage water resources in a way that supports the needs of both humans and wildlife.

In addition to its guidelines and standards, the Ramsar Convention also provides a platform for international cooperation and collaboration on wetland conservation. The convention's secretariat, located in Gland, Switzerland, hosts regular meetings and workshops to bring together wetland managers, policymakers, scientists, and other stakeholders to share knowledge and best practices. These meetings provide an opportunity for countries to exchange information and resources, and to work together to address common challenges and opportunities for wetland conservation.

One of the most significant achievements of the Ramsar Convention is its ability to bring together countries from around the world to work together on wetland conservation. The convention has helped to build a global network of wetland experts and advocates, and has facilitated the exchange of knowledge and resources that have helped to promote wetland conservation in a range of countries.

Despite its successes, the Ramsar Convention faces several challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of funding and resources for wetland conservation. Many wetlands are located in developing countries, where resources are scarce and funding for conservation is often prioritized elsewhere. This can make it difficult for countries to implement the guidelines and standards of the Ramsar Convention and to maintain their designated wetlands.

Another challenge is the lack of awareness and understanding of the importance of wetlands. Many people do not recognize the value of wetlands or the threats that they face, which can make it difficult to promote wetland conservation and to secure the necessary resources and support.

To address these challenges, the Ramsar Convention has launched a number of initiatives to raise awareness and promote wetland conservation. These initiatives include the development of educational materials, the promotion of public awareness campaigns, and the support of research and monitoring programs.

In conclusion, the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is a critical international treaty that aims to protect and conserve wetlands of international importance. The convention's comprehensive approach to wetland conservation, its guidelines and standards for wetland management, and its platform for international cooperation and collaboration have helped to promote wetland conservation in a range of countries. However, the Ramsar Convention faces several challenges, including the lack of funding and resources, and the lack of awareness and understanding of the importance of wetlands. To address these challenges, the Ramsar Convention has launched a number of initiatives to raise awareness and promote wetland conservation.

Weight: 810g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367857981