Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat

Abstract

Wetlands constitute a resource of great economic, cultural, scientific and recreational value, the loss of which would be irreparable. Therefore, the "Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat" recognizes human interdependence with their environment, considering the fundamental ecological functions of wetlands as: regulators of hydrological regimes and as habitat for a characteristic fauna and flora, especially waterfowl.  It recognizes that waterfowl in their seasonal migrations can cross borders, and therefore should be considered as an international resource, so that the conservation of wetlands and their flora and fauna can be ensured by harmonizing preventive national policies with coordinated international action.