31 new wetland cities have been recognized under the Wetland City Accreditation scheme for their commitment to conservation and sustainable urban planning.
Thirty one new cities have been added to the Wetland City Accreditation scheme, recognizing their efforts in conserving and managing urban wetlands. The announcement was made in January 2025 during the 64th meeting of the Standing Committee of the Convention on Wetlands. This milestone reflects the growing international focus on protecting wetlands in urban areas and integrating them into sustainable city planning.
The newly accredited cities span across five continents, highlighting the global nature of the initiative. Some of the latest additions include:
- Argentina: Trelew
- Belgium: Mechelen
- Botswana: Kasane-Kazungula, Shakawe
- Chile: Valdivia
- China: Chongming, Dali, Fuzhou, Hangzhou, Jiujiang, Lhasa, Suzhou, Wenzhou, Yueyang
- France: Abbeville, Arles, Hampigny
- India: Indore, Udaipur
- Iran: Babol, Bandar Kiashar, Gandoman
- Japan: Nagoya City
- Morocco: Mehdya
- Philippines: Balanga City
- Poland: Poznan
- Republic of Korea: Gimhae, Mungyeong
- Serbia: Novi Sad
- Switzerland: Geneva
- Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls
These cities have made significant efforts to protect their wetlands, which are critical for biodiversity, climate resilience, and water management. Their inclusion in the Wetland City Accreditation network reflects their commitment to balancing urban development with environmental sustainability.
Urban wetlands play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. They act as natural flood barriers, help purify water, and provide habitats for wildlife. They also offer green spaces for recreation and improve air quality. However, rapid urbanization and pollution threaten these ecosystems, making conservation efforts more important than ever.
Beyond environmental benefits, wetlands also contribute to local economies. Many wetland cities rely on ecotourism, fisheries, and sustainable agriculture as sources of income. Protecting wetlands supports these industries and creates green jobs, demonstrating how environmental conservation and economic growth can go hand in hand.
Established in 2015, the Wetland City Accreditation program encourages cities to safeguard their wetlands. To qualify, cities must demonstrate active conservation efforts, integrate wetlands into urban planning, and engage local communities in protection initiatives. This year’s recognized cities represent a mix of natural and artificial wetlands, all playing essential roles in sustainable urban development.
Despite their efforts, many wetland cities face challenges, including pollution, encroachment, and limited funding for conservation projects. Overcoming these obstacles requires collaboration between governments, private organizations, and local communities. Many cities have introduced policies to reduce industrial waste, restore damaged wetlands, and educate the public on conservation.
Each of the newly recognized wetland cities has taken unique approaches to conservation:
Geneva, Switzerland, has incorporated wetland protection into city policies, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, home to the famous waterfall, has implemented innovative conservation programs to balance tourism and environmental protection.
Indore, India, has improved wetland health through pollution control measures and community engagement projects.
Poznan, Poland, has restored degraded wetlands, creating new green spaces for residents and wildlife.
The 31 new cities will be officially recognized at the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) of the Convention on Wetlands in July 2025. The event, set to take place in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, will bring together global leaders, environmentalists, and policymakers to discuss the future of wetland conservation.
In addition to the new accreditations, 18 cities have had their status renewed for maintaining strong wetland conservation efforts. These Wetland Cities include Changde (China), Amiens (France), and Colombo (Sri Lanka). Their continued commitment reinforces the importance of long-term strategies for wetland preservation.
City-wide policies and large-scale conservation projects are essential, but individuals also play a role in protecting wetlands. Residents can contribute by:
- Reducing plastic waste to prevent pollution in wetland ecosystems.
- Participating in community clean-up events and wetland restoration projects.
- Supporting local wetland-friendly businesses and sustainable tourism initiatives.
- Advocating for stronger wetland protection policies in their cities.
With these new additions, 74 cities across 27 countries are now part of the Wetland City Accreditation network. This global initiative highlights the increasing recognition of wetlands as essential components of sustainable cities. As urban populations continue to grow, the role of wetland cities will become even more critical in building resilient and environmentally friendly urban areas.
