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A Framework for Ramsar data and information needs

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  9. Appendix

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28 Oct, 2008
13 Nov, 2022 en 28 Oct, 2008 en

A Framework for Ramsar data and information needs

1.AWARE of the suite of technical and scientific guidelines and other materials prepared by the Scientific and Technical Review Panel (STRP) to support Contracting Parties in their implementation of wetland conservation and wise use;
2.ALSO AWARE of the Ramsar Sites Information Service (RSIS) developed and managed for the Convention by Wetlands International under contractual arrangements with the Ramsar Secretariat to support Contracting Parties in their implementation of wetland conservation and wise use, especially concerning Wetlands of International Importance; and FURTHER AWARE of other tools and resources available from International Organisation Partners and other organisations that contribute to supporting Ramsar data and information needs;
3.NOTING that the 9th meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP9) instructed the STRP to prepare further advice and guidance for consideration by the Parties at their 10th meeting, which would focus on the immediate and high priority tasks set out in Annex 1 to Resolution IX.2; and
4.THANKING the STRP for its work in preparing the advice and guidance annexed to this Resolution as part of its high priority work during the 2006-2008 triennium; and ALSO THANKING the UNEP-World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC) for its support for the development of this guidance;
The Conference of the Contracting Parties
5.WELCOMES the "Framework for Ramsar data and information needs" provided in the annex to this Resolution, and URGES Contracting Parties, relevant organizations and other stakeholders to make good use of it as appropriate, adapting it as necessary to suit national conditions and circumstances, within the frameworks of existing regional initiatives and commitments and in the context of sustainable development;
6.***[paragraph 6 repealed by Annex 1 of Review of Resolutions and Recommendations of the Conference of the Contracting Parties]
7.INSTRUCTS the Ramsar Secretariat to disseminate this Framework widely, especially through amendment and updating of the Ramsar Wise Use Handbooks.

Annex

A Framework for Ramsar data and information needs

1) – Background

1.Access to sound, relevant data and information, including good practice advice, is key to supporting good decision-making and implementation of commitments made by Ramsar Contracting Parties to secure the wise use of wetlands and the maintenance of their ecological character.
2.Such relevant data and information is needed, not only about wetlands themselves but also about the drivers of change to wetlands by many different stakeholders in, and affecting, the Ramsar process, from local to global scales, including those responsible for wetland (including Ramsar site) management, national governments and their Ramsar Administrative Authorities, other government administrations from local to national level, National Ramsar/Wetland Committees, and global processes such as the Convention’s Standing Committee, Scientific and Technical Review Panel (STRP), and Secretariat.
3.The "Framework for Ramsar data and information needs" which forms the basis of this guidance has been developed in recognition of these needs – it has been prepared by the STRP and its Working Group 1, with input from the UNEP-World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC), as a response to one aspect of the STRP’s 2006-2008 work plan priority task 52.
4.In order to support clearly the implementation of the Convention through its Strategic Plan and identified priorities, the Framework provided below is structured in line with the Goals and Strategies of the Convention’s Strategic Plan 2009-2015 (Resolution X.1), and it will thus need to be revised and updated, as necessary, following the adoption of the final form and content of that Strategic Plan at the 10th meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties.
5.In addition to providing guidance for Contracting Parties and others on such data and information needs, it is anticipated that this Framework will also assist the STRP in identifying gaps in current data and information, including guidances, and establishing priorities for filling these gaps.

2) – Purposes for needing data and information under the Convention

6.Whilst the efficient and effective use of data and information is essential for effective implementation of the Convention at all levels, a key to this is ensuring that the purpose for which this data and information is being collected is clearly established and recognized.
7.Eight broad categories of "purpose" can be defined that identify the ways in which data and information can be necessary to support and assess implementation of the Convention at different levels. These are:
a)baseline knowledge;
b)compliance and accountability;
c)performance against targets;
d)learning lessons;
e)identifying new and emerging issues;
f)promoting benefits, CEPA;
g)targeted problem solving; and
h)selecting sites for Ramsar site designation.
8.This broad-scale "taxonomy of purposes" has been applied in the Framework table below to cross-check against the data and information "needs" identified for each of the Strategies in the Strategic Plan 2009-2015, as a means of validating what data and information has been identified under each Strategy.
9.For each type or category of data or information there is often more than one specific purpose for its collection, provision and/or dissemination, and this should be taken into account when developing and implementing information strategies and services.

3) – Guiding principles for assessing data and information needs

10.In order to ensure a common understanding of the scope of the data and information needs Framework, and hence a common approach to its implementation, the assessment of needs upon which the Framework is based was carried out according to the following guiding principles:
i)The assessment should cover basic data and information in the forms both of analysed and assessed data and of implementation guidance.
ii)The assessment should cover anticipated data and information needs at all levels, including the needs of Parties, Secretariat, STRP, Standing Committee, and the COP.
iii)The assessment should be driven by purpose and mandate, focusing on key data and information needs for guiding the Convention implementation process.
iv)The assessment should focus on delivering data and information that is relevant and fit for purpose, not simply listing all data and information which might be useful.
v)The assessment should recognize and address the close links with strategic planning, national reporting, effectiveness indicators, and so on, which cross-cut all Convention activities.
vi)While the assessment should recognize and build on data and information products and processes already in place, it should be driven by what is needed, not by what already exists.
11.With respect to guiding principle vi) above, it is recognized that some data and information provision and mechanisms are already in place (e.g., existing implementation guidelines) and others will need to be developed or will require further work. The status of the current response to each identified data and information need will have to be identified, so as to help identify current gaps and future priorities.

4) – The approach to developing the data and information needs Framework

12.After evaluation of several different available categorizations of the Convention’s mandates and decisions (provided in the appendix), including 1) Dave Pritchard’s 2007 analysis for the Ramsar Standing Committee of COP decisions in response to Resolution IX.17, 2) the themes identified and used by the UNEP/IUCN-funded tematea (issue-based modules for coherent implementation of biodiversity related conventions) project (at: http://www.tematea.org/), and 3) the Wise Use Handbooks’ (3rd edition) themes and topics, the approach that was identified as most helpful to Parties and others is to base the data and needs assessment on the Ramsar Strategic Plan 2009-2015 in order to ensure that the needs identified relate directly to implementation of the Plan’s Strategies and Key Result Areas.
13.Thus the attached "Framework" provides a mechanism for recognizing all the different categories of data and information needed to implement the Convention’s Strategic Plan. As well as scientific and technical information on wetlands, the framework therefore identifies the need for data and information on matters such as policies, institutional arrangements, and measures taken.
14.The Framework should also be regarded as the first stage of a ‘work in progress’ since there are certain aspects of it that will be further reviewed by the STRP, and because certain aspects of the Framework will need further elaboration and input by the STRP as part of its 2009-2012 priority tasks, notably in relation to the full range of data and information needs for Ramsar site identification and designation.
15.Hence the types of data and information identified and listed in the attached Framework should be considered as ‘indicative’ rather than ‘comprehensive’. Furthermore, in using the Framework, Contracting Parties and others involved in Ramsar Strategic Plan implementation should:
i)adapt it as necessary to suit national conditions and circumstances, within the frameworks of existing regional initiatives and commitments; and
ii)in so doing, determine whether there are other types of data or information needed to support delivery of one or more Strategic Plan strategies, and report this to the STRP so that such matters can be taken into account in the further development of the Framework.
16.The Framework tables below indicates, for each of the Strategic Plan’s Strategies, the data and information needs at the national/subnational level and at the international level separately.
17.The Framework as presented below does not seek to provide any prioritisation for the collection of each category of data and information listed. That is a matter for each Contracting Party to consider in relation to any review of its existing data and information holdings and any priorities it has established for future implementation of the Convention through its Strategies.
18.In considering any such prioritisation, Contracting Parties may wish to take into account the Key Result Areas for each Strategy in the Ramsar Strategic Plan 2009-2015, and in order to assist with this those Key Result Areas are provided in the tables below.
19.The following additional explanatory notes are provided to aid in understanding the table’s presentation and contents:
i)Where "guidance" information is indicated, a cross-reference to relevant existing guidance (Ramsar Wise Use Handbooks, 3rd edition) is included. An "x" against "guidance" indicates that such guidance may need to be developed in the future.
ii)"National level" data and information needs may range from site to country level, including those of Administrative Authorities, other government sectors, within-country scientific/technical expertise, wetland managers (Ramsar sites and other wetlands), and so on.
iii)"International level" data and information needs cover the anticipated needs of global Ramsar Convention bodies (SC, STRP, CEPA Panel, COP, etc.) and the Secretariat, as well as supranational/regional scales including shared systems.
iv)Data and information types are listed in the column (National or International level) relevant to the spatial scale at which they are developed or provided.
20.The STRP expects, following further review, to continue to elaborate the Framework, including further developing the lists of data and information types provided in the tables, for example through the addition of further information on Ramsar site data and information needs; providing guidance on data and information flows between the national/subnational and international scales; and adding a further column to the Framework tables providing information on current availability of data/information.
21.An example of guidance already developed by the STRP on data and information flows between the different Convention ‘actors’ at national/subnational and international scales is provided in Resolution X.16 for processes of detecting, reporting and responding to change in wetland ecological character -- in this case speaking to Strategies 2.4 (Ramsar site ecological character) and 2.6 (Ramsar site status) of the new Ramsar Strategic Plan 2009-2015.

A Framework for Ramsar data and information needs, with indicative lists of data and information types, based on the Ramsar Strategic Plan 2009-2015

Notes.
1.Where guidelines are listed as a need, references to "HBx" refer to the relevant Handbooks available in the Ramsar ‘toolkit’ of Wise Use Handbooks (3rd edition, 2007), and to "RTRx" to relevant supporting Ramsar Technical Reports. Where an "(x)" occurs against an indicated need of guidelines, this indicates that the Convention has not yet adopted relevant guidance.
2."Metadata" is commonly described as "data about data". It has many elements which can include information that describe inter alia the age, accuracy, content, currency, scale, reliability, lineage, authorship and custodianship of an individual dataset.

GOAL 1 Wise Use

To work towards achieving the wise use of all wetlands by ensuring that all Contracting Parties develop, adopt and use the necessary and appropriate instruments and measures, with the participation of the local indigenous and non-indigenous population and making use of traditional knowledge, while at the same time ensuring that conservation and wise use of wetlands contribute to poverty eradication, mitigation of and adaptation to climate change, as well as prevention of disease and of natural disasters.**

  Indicative list of information/data/metadata needs collected or provided at:
Strategic Plan 2009-2015 StrategiesKey Result Areas (KRAs) by 2015National levelInternational level
STRATEGY 1.1 Wetland inventory and assessmentDescribe, assess and monitor the extent and condition of wetlands and wetland resources at relevant scales, in order to inform and underpin implementation of the Convention, in particular in the application of the wise use principle. (CPs, advised by STRP and assisted by IOPs)1.1.iAll Parties to have completed national wetland inventories in line with the Ramsar Framework for Wetland Inventory and as far as possible to have disseminated comprehensive national wetland inventories, including information on wetland importance, potential Ramsar sites, wetlands for restoration, location of under-represented wetland types, and the ecosystem services provided by wetlands. (National: CPs)1.1.iiAn easily accessible Web-based metadatabase in place, managed by the Secretariat, populated with information on all national wetland inventories, and linked to national and other international relevant databases. (Global: Secretariat)Location, distribution of wetland types (National wetland inventory)Ecological character description(s)Ecological character status (could be a subset of the ecological character description)Management objectivesChange in ecological character time series (through monitoring and surveillance)Wetland values (services)Impacts, vulnerability and riskNational status and trendsIdentification of data and information sent to the SecretariatInternational status and trendsStatus of national wetland inventoriesGuidelines and definitions (HB11, 12 & 16; RTR1)Identification of data and information received from Parties and others by the Secretariat
STRATEGY 1.2: Global wetland information Develop a global wetland information system, through partnerships, to be covered by voluntary contributions, to increase accessibility of data and information on wetlands (CPs, Secretariat, advised by STRP and assisted by IOPs)1.2.iGlobal wetland distribution and status data and information available through Web-portal mechanisms. (Global: STRP) 1.2.ii Global wetland observing system(s) reporting on changes in wetland status. (Global: STRP)[to be further developed by STRP following scoping of the proposed Global Wetland Observing System – G-WOS][to be further developed by STRP following scoping of the proposed Global Wetland Observing System – G-WOS]
STRATEGY 1.3 Policy, legislation and institutionsDevelop and implement policies, legislation, and practices, including growth and development of appropriate institutions, in all Contracting Parties to ensure that the wise use provisions of the Convention are being effectively applied. (CPs, Secretariat)1.3.iNational Wetland Policy or equivalent instruments fully in place alongside and integrated with other strategic and planning processes by all Parties, including poverty eradication strategies, water resources management and water efficiency plans, coastal and marine resource management plans, national forest programmes, national strategies for sustainable development, and national measures on agriculture. (National: CPs)1.3.iiParties to have Strategic Environmental Assessment in place for policies, programmes and plans impacting on wetlands. (National: CPs)National wetland policiesPolicy linkages to other sectors (water, human health and physical planning)Legal, institutional and governance frameworksCapacity needsEffectiveness indicatorsSEAs for policies affecting wetlandsEffectiveness indicatorsGuidelines and definitions (HB2, 3 & 13, Resolution X.17)Case studies/best practice
STRATEGY 1.4 Cross-sectoral recognition of wetland servicesIncrease recognition of and attention in decision-making to the significance of wetlands for reasons of biodiversity conservation, water supply, coastal protection, flood defense, climate change mitigation and/or adaptation, food security, poverty eradication, cultural heritage, and scientific research, by developing and disseminating methodologies to achieve wise use of wetlands. (CPs, Secretariat, STRP, IOPs)1.4.iDevelopment and implementation of wetland programmes and projects that contribute to poverty eradication objectives and food and water security plans at local and national levels. (National: CPs)1.4.iiAn analysis of the ecosystem services and their values of wetlands (especially Ramsar sites) achieved for all Parties. (National: CPs)1.4.iiiThe socio-economic and cultural heritage value of wetlands fully taken into account in wetland wise use and management. (National: CPs; Subnational: wetland managers)Value of ecosystem servicesKey players in other sectorsOpportunities (role or potential role of wetlands in……)Effectiveness indicatorsEffectiveness indicatorsGuidelines and definitions (HB6 & 10; RTR3)Case studies/best practiceOpportunities (role or potential role of wetlands in……)Value of ecosystem services
Strategy 1.5 Recognition of role of the ConventionRaise the profile of the Convention by highlighting its capacity as a unique mechanism for wetland ecosystem management at all levels; promote the usefulness of the Convention as a possible implementation mechanism to meet the goals and targets of other global conventions and processes. (CPs, Secretariat, STRP, IOPs)1.5.iGlobal environmental organizations and conventions aware of and applying the mechanisms developed by the Ramsar Convention for wetland ecosystem management, wise use, and conservation. (Global: Secretariat; National: CPs)[to be developed][to be developed]
STRATEGY 1.6 Science-based management of wetlandsPromote successful implementation of the wise use concept by ensuring that national policies and wetland management plans are based on the best available scientific knowledge, including technical and traditional knowledge. (CPs, Secretariat, STRP, IOPs)1.6.iHigh quality research completed, widely disseminated in appropriate formats and styles and applied concerning areas of key importance for wetland sustainability, such as agriculture-wetland interactions, climate change, and valuation of ecosystem services. (Global: Secretariat; National: CPs, IOPs)1.6.iiAll wetland management plans founded on sound scientific research, including research on potential threats. (Global: Secretariat; National: CPs, IOPs)[to be developed][to be developed]
STRATEGY 1.7 Integrated Water Resources ManagementEnsure policies and implementation of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), applying an ecosystem-based approach, are included in the planning activities in all Contracting Parties and in their decision-making processes, particularly concerning groundwater management, catchment/river basin management, coastal and marine zone planning, and climate change mitigation and/or adaptation activities. (CPs, STRP, IOPs)1.7.iAll Parties to have made available the Ramsar guidance on water allocation and management for ecosystems to support decision-making on water resource management, as a contribution to achieving the WSSD target on water resources management and water efficiency plans. (National: CPs)1.7.iiAll Parties, in their water governance and management, to be managing wetlands as natural water infrastructure integral tto water resource management at the scale of river basins (National: CPs)1.7.iiiNational policies or guidelines enhancing the role of wetlands in mitigation of and/or adaptation to climate change in progress or completed. (National: CPs)1.7.ivThe Convention’s role in encouraging IWRM planning established as part of international environmental efforts. (Global: Secretariat, STRP)1.7.vParties to have formulated plans to sustain and enhance the role of wetlands in supporting and maintaining viable farming systems. (National: CPs)Current water resources:Policies and practicesCurrent water allocationsEffectiveness indicatorsCase studies/best practiceWetland - climate change adaptation and mitigationEffectiveness indicatorsGuidelines and definitions (HB6, 7, 8, 9; Resolution X.19)Case studies/best practiceCatchment level water resource managementReview methods for ecosystem based water managementWetland - climate change adaptation and mitigation
STRATEGY 1.8 Wetland restorationIdentify priority wetlands and wetland systems where restoration or rehabilitation would be beneficial and yield long-term environmental, social, or economic benefits, and implement the necessary measures to recover these sites and systems. (CPs, Secretariat, IOPs)1.8.iAll Parties to have identified priority sites for restoration; restoration projects underway or completed in at least half the Parties. (National: CPs)1.8.iiNew case studies and methods added to Ramsar wetland restoration pages on the Web site. (Global: STRP; National: CPs)Inventory of sites suitable for wetland restoration/rehabilitation (cf inventory of wetlands/assessment/monitoring)Measures that have been takenImpacts of measures takenGuidelines and definitions (HB15)Case studies/best practice
STRATEGY 1.9 Invasive alien speciesEncourage Contracting Parties to develop a national inventory of invasive alien species that currently and/or potentially impact the ecological characters of wetlands, especially Ramsar sites, and ensure mutual supportiveness between the national inventory and IUCN’s Global Register on Invasive Species (GRIS); develop guidance and promote procedures and actions to prevent, control or eradicate invasive species in wetland systems. (CPs, STRP, other agencies, IOPs)1.9.All Parties to have a national inventory of invasive alien species that currently or potentially impact the ecological characters of wetlands, especially Ramsar sites. (National: CPs)1.9.iiParties to have identified more comprehensively the problems posed by invasive species in wetland ecosystems within their territories. (National: CPs)1.9.iiiNational invasive species control and management policies or guidelines in place for wetlands (Subnational: wetland managers)1.9.ivComprehensive and up-to-date global guidance on invasive species, in cooperation with GISP, available to all stakeholders. (Global: STRP)1.9.vIncreased collaboration with the Convention on Biological Diversity on actions to address gaps in international regulations relating to invasive alien species. (Global: Secretariat)Actual or potential invasive problemsMeasures that have been takenImpacts of measures takenGuidelines and definitions (x)Case studies/best practice
STRATEGY 1.10 Private sectorPromote the involvement of the private sector in the conservation and wise use of wetlands. (CPs, Secretariat)1.10.iSignificant progress in the private sector applying the concepts and approaches for conservation and wise use of wetlands contained in Ramsar guidance (Ramsar Handbooks 1 to 17, 3rd edition) and other relevant guidelines in their activities and investments affecting wetlands. (Global to Subnational: private sector)1.10.iiIncreased private sector engagement in the wise use of wetlands and in the management of Ramsar sites. (Subnational: private sector)1.10.iiiAwareness-raising material made available to the public to enable wetland-friendly consumer choices. (National: private sector & CPs)Stakeholders and rights holdersCase studies/best practiceIncentives and their impacts/ potential impactsCEPA material on wetland friendly consumer choiceCase studies/best practiceIncentives and their impacts/ potential impacts
STRATEGY 1.11 Incentive measuresPromote incentive measures that encourage the application of the wise use provisions of the Convention. (CPs, Secretariat, IOPs)1.11.iBetter design and implementation of incentive measures of relevance to wetlands taking place in all Parties, and better monitoring and assessment of both positive and perverse incentives affecting wetlands in place in all Parties. (National: CPs)[to be identified subsequently]Good practice guidance on positive incentives and removal of perverse incentives (x)

GOAL 2 Wetlands of international importance

To develop and maintain an international network of wetlands that are important for the conservation of global biological diversity and for sustaining human life by ensuring that all Contracting Parties appropriately implement the Strategic Framework and guidelines for the future development of the List of Wetlands of International Importance and by appropriate management and wise use of those internationally important wetlands that are not yet formally designated as Ramsar sites but have been identified as qualifying through domestic application of the Strategic Framework or an equivalent process.

  Indicative list of information/data/metadata needs collected or provided at:
Strategic Plan 2009-2015 StrategiesKey Result Areas (KRAs) by 2015National levelInternational level
STRATEGY 2.1 Ramsar site designationApply the Strategic Framework and guidelines for the future development of the List of Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Handbook 14). (CPs)2.1.iAll Parties to have prepared, using the Strategic Framework, a national plan and priorities for the designation and management of Ramsar sites, including where appropriate for shared wetlands in collaboration with neighboring Parties. (National: CPs)2.1.iiCompleted, and as appropriate updated, Ramsar Information Sheets submitted for all Ramsar sites. (National: CPs)2.1.iiiAt least 2,500 Ramsar sites designated worldwide, covering at least 250 million hectares. (National: CPs)2.1.ivContracting Parties to have considered designating Ramsar sites from among wetland types under-represented in the Ramsar List. (National: CPs)National wetland inventory and/or ecological character descriptionNational datasets (to test against each Criterion)List of candidate sites derived from national wetland inventory/ ecological character description and other national/international datasets to test against each criterion[Note. Further STRP work in 2009-2011 will elaborate this listing by Criterion]Criteria and guidance (HB14; RTR1)International datasets (to test potential sites against Criteria)Status of whatever candidate listing process is applied[Note. Further STRP work in 2009-2011 will elaborate this listing by Criterion]
STRATEGY 2.2 Ramsar site informationEnsure that the Ramsar Sites Information Service, including the Ramsar Sites Database, are available and enhanced as a tool for guiding the further designation of wetlands for the List of Wetlands of International Importance and for research and assessment, and is effectively managed by the Secretariat. (CPs, STRP, Secretariat, IOPs)2.2.iRamsar site data and information services reviewed, restructured and further developed for Web-accessibility to stakeholders, and linked to a global information and observing system for all wetlands. (Global: STRP, Secretariat, IOPs)2.2.iiThe Ramsar Sites Information Service delivering a range of tools and support to Contracting Parties to aid their identification of gaps and priorities for further Ramsar site designation.(Global: Secretariat, IOPs)Data and information necessary for completion of the RIS as may be defined by COP and COP nominated processesIdentification of data and information sent to the SecretariatFor candidate sites - national lists as provided by CPsFor designated sites: completed RIS as defined by COP and COP nominated processesFor candidate sites – from national lists as provided by CPsGuidelines (x)Identification of data and information received from Parties and others by the Secretariat
STRATEGY 2.3 Management planning – new Ramsar sitesWhile recognizing that Ramsar site designation can act as a stimulus for development of effective site management plans, generally encourage the philosophy that all new Ramsar sites should have effective management planning in place before designation, as well as resources for implementing such management. (CPs, IOPs, Secretariat)2.3.iAdequate management planning processes established and submitted with all or most new site designations or a commitment made to work towards that goal, taking into account the possible lack of financial and human resources to fulfill this objective, and recognizing that the designation of a site can work as an incentive for the establishment of future management planning. (National: CPs; subnational: wetland managers)Candidate list for Ramsar sitesData and information for management plan development (including ecological character description)Guidance (HB16)
STRATEGY 2.4 Ramsar site ecological character Maintain the ecological character of all designated Ramsar sites, through planning and management. (CPs, Secretariat, IOPs)2.4.iProgress in developing effective management plans for all Ramsar sites within each Party’s territory. (National: CPs; Subnational: wetland managers)2.4.iiManagement objectives, as part of management planning, for ecological character maintenance established for all Ramsar sites. (Subnational: wetland managers)2.4.iiiZoning measures to be put in place for larger Ramsar sites, wetland reserves, and other wetlands (Recommendation 5.3 and Resolution VIII.14) and strict protection measures to be enacted for certain Ramsar sites and other wetlands of small size and/or particular sensitivity. (Subnational: wetland managers)2.4.ivCross-sectoral site management committees in place for Ramsar sites, involving relevant government agencies, citizens and local communities, and other stakeholders, including the business sector as appropriate, in place, including as a mechanism for dispute settlement. (Subnational: wetland managers)2.4.vStatements of ecological character finalized for all Ramsar sites and used as a basis for implementing Article 3.2 of the Convention. (Subnational: wetland managers)Ecological character description(s)Site management objectives, and limits of acceptable changeEcological character statusChange in ecological character time series (through monitoring and surveillance)Guidelines and definitions, including format for describing ecological character (HB5 & 16, Resolution X.15)Effectiveness indicators – status & trends reporting
STRATEGY 2.5 Ramsar site management effectiveness Review all existing Ramsar sites to determine the effectiveness of management arrangements, in line with the Strategic Framework and guidelines for the future development of the List of Wetlands of International Importance. (CPs, STRP)2.5.iAll Parties, using the Strategic Framework, to have reviewed all existing Ramsar sites and confirmed that all Ramsar sites fulfill the provisions of the Strategic Framework or to have identified those sites that do not do so for remedial actions. (National: CPs; Subnational: wetland managers)Effectiveness indicatorsGuidance on applying management effectiveness tools in national contextManagement objectivesMonitoring resultsGuidance on management effectiveness tools (HB5, 14 & 16)Effectiveness indicators
STRATEGY 2.6 Ramsar site statusMonitor the condition of Ramsar sites and address negative changes is their ecological character, notify the Ramsar Secretariat of changes affecting Ramsar sites, and apply the Montreux Record, if appropriate, and Ramsar Advisory Mission as tools to address problems. (CPs, Secretariat, IOPs)2.6.iAll Parties with Ramsar sites whose ecological character has changed, is changing or is likely to change owing to human-induced actions to have reported this to the Ramsar Secretariat, in line with the requirements of Article 3.2 of the Convention. (National: CPs)2.6.iiFor all sites on the Montreux Record that have not been the subject of a Ramsar Advisory Mission (RAM), intended to provide advice on the steps needed to remove those sites from the Record, Parties to request such a Mission. (National: CPs)2.6.iiiImplementation of relevant STRP ecological outcome-oriented indicators of effectiveness of the Convention. (Global: STRP; National: CPs)Case studies on individual sitesResults from monitoring against management objectives and RAMEIA for development proposalsIdentification of data, information and reports sent to the SecretariatGuidelines (HB13, 14 & 15; Resolutions X.15 & X.16)Article 3.2 report format and reportsMontreux Record questionnairesArticle 2.5 reportsArticle 4.2 compensation reportsRAM reportsIdentification of data, information and reports received from Parties and others by the Secretariat
STRATEGY 2.7 Management of other internationally important wetlandsAppropriate management and wise use achieved for those internationally important wetlands that have not yet been formally designated as Ramsar sites but have been identified through domestic application of the Strategic Framework or an equivalent process (CPs)2.7.iRamsar guidance on the maintenance of ecological character to have been applied with a priority upon recognised internationally important wetlands not yet designated as Ramsar sites. (National: CPs; Subnational: wetland managers)[to be developed][to be developed]

GOAL 3 International cooperation

To achieve international cooperation in the conservation and wise use of wetlands through the active application of the Guidelines for international cooperation under the Ramsar Convention.

  Indicative list of information/data/metadata needs collected or provided at:
Strategic Plan 2009-2015 StrategiesKey Result Areas (KRAs) by 2015National levelInternational level
STRATEGY 3.1 Synergies with MEAs and IGOsWork as partners with international and regional multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) and other intergovernmental agencies (IGOs). (CPs, Secretariat)3.1.iCBD-Ramsar Joint Work Plan and CMS/AEWA/Ramsar Joint Work Plan being and participation continued in the CBD Biodiversity Liaison Group. (Global: Secretariat, STRP; National: CPs)3.1.iiJoint activities developed with the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), as appropriate, including through participation in the Joint Liaison Group. (Global: Secretariat, STRP)3.1.iiiThe Action Plan of the New Partnership for ’s Development (NEPAD) to havefully incorporated Ramsar issues and mechanisms and being implemented by relevant Parties. (Regional: Secretariat; National: CPs, IOPs)3.1.ivAdditional partnership approaches initiated with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), UNESCO, the World Health Organisation (WHO), the World Tourism Organization (WTO), the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO), the UN Forum on Forests with its Collaborative Partnerships on Forests, the European Union, ASEAN, APEC, BIMSTEC, SAARC, and other relevant UN agencies and regional bodies, as well as through UN Water. (Global: Secretariat, STRP and National Regional: CPs with IOPs support)3.1.vHarmonized information management and reporting systems available and widely used national level with the appropriate MEAs. (Global: Secretariat; National: CPs)Shared information on MEAs and IGOs focal points and institutional arrangementsMEA/IGO focal points and institutional arrangementsJoint work plans and other collaborative working arrangementsHarmonized international information and reporting systems
STRATEGY 3.2 Regional initiativesSupport existing regional arrangements under the Convention and promote additional arrangements. (CPs, Secretariat, IOPs)3.2.iDevelopment of viable regional arrangements under the Convention, applying the Operational Guidelines 2009-2012 for regional initiatives in the framework of the Convention on Wetlands (Annex to Resolution X.6), resulting in the establishment of new regional initiatives, where appropriate, and the strengthening of existing initiatives. (Global: Secretariat, Standing Committee; Regional: regionalinitiatives with IOPs support)Knowledge network – list – who’s who and whyOpportunities for resources and capacityKnowledge network (wise use resource centre) to deliver case studies, best practice, guidelines, experts list, (wetlands clearing house mechanism)Guidance (initiative development) (Resolution X.6)
STRATEGY 3.3 International assistancePromote international assistance to support the conservation and wise use of wetlands, while ensuring that environmental safeguards and assessments are an integral component of all development projects that affect wetlands, including foreign and domestic investments. (CPs, Secretariat, IOPs)3.3.iParties with bilateral donor agencies to have encouraged those agencies to give priority for funding for wetland conservation and wise use projects in relation to poverty eradication and other relevant international targets and priorities. (National: CPs)3.3.iiProposed grants, loans, and development projects from international development agencies, including banks, financial institutions and private investors and developers, to include environmental safeguards and environmental assessments of possible impacts. (Global: Secretariat, development agencies)Who will fund what where in my country? E.g., GEFWho will fund what, where?
STRATEGY 3.4 Sharing information and expertisePromote the sharing of expertise and information concerning the conservation and wise use of wetlands. (CPs, Secretariat)3.4.iLess time required from Parties on managing information for national reports, but better quality and more timely reports produced. (Global: Secretariat; National: CPs)3.4.Increased flow of information made available by the Parties (e.g., policies, management plans, Ramsar site monitoring, etc.) to the Secretariat for dissemination via the Ramsar Web site and other means. (National/Regional: CPs with IOPs)3.4.iiiRelevant research findings that have been evaluated by the STRP promoted and made widely available through Ramsar Technical Reports, Ramsar and IOP Web sites, and other means. (Global: Secretariat, STRP, IOPs; National: CPs)Knowledge network – list – who’s who and why - CEPA and STRP NFPs and NRCs and beyondShared information management capacity for national reportingKnowledge network (wise use resource centre) to deliver case studies, best practice, guidelines, experts list, (wetlands clearing house mechanism),National reports and synthesis
STRATEGY 3.5 Shared wetlands, basins and speciesPromote inventory and integrated management of shared wetlands and hydrological basins, including cooperative monitoring and management of shared wetland-dependent species. (CPs, Secretariat, IOPs)3.5.iWhere appropriate, all Parties to have identified their shared wetlands, river basins and migratory speices and Parties to have identified collaborative management mechanisms with one another for those shared wetlands and river basins. (National: CPs)3.5.iiWhere appropriate, Parties with shared basins and coastal systems to consider participation in joint management commissions or authorities. (National: CPs)3.5.iiiRegional site networks and initiatives in place for additional wetland-dependent migratory species, as exemplified inter alia by the African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbird Agreement (AEWA), the East Asian-Australasisan Flyway Partnership, the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network, and the Central Asian Flyway Initiative. (Global: STRP, Secretariat, other MEAs; National: CPs)National level inventory, which are shared systemsAvailable/existing collaborative mechanismsGuidance/case studies/best practice – how to collaborate on management (x)

GOAL 4 Institutional capacity and effectiveness

To progress towards fulfilment of the Convention’s mission by ensuring that it has the required mechanisms, resources, and capacity to do so

  Indicative list of information/data/metadata needs collected or provided at:
Strategic Plan 2009-2015 StrategiesKey Result Areas (KRAs) by 2015National levelInternational level
STRATEGY 4.1 CEPASupport, and assist in implementing at all levels, the Convention’s Communication, Education, Participation and Awareness Programme (Resolution X.8) for promoting the conservation and wise use of wetlands through communication, education, participation, and awareness (CEPA). (CPs, Secretariat, training centres, IOPs, Advisory Board on)4.1.iAll Parties to have established national (or subnational, catchment or local level, as appropriate) Ramsar CEPA action plans. (National: CPs)4.1.iiAll Parties to have established at least one wetland education centre at a Ramsar site. (National: CPs)4.1.iiiAll Parties to have established practices that ensure the participation in the development and implementation of wetland management plans of stakeholder groups with cultural or economic links to wetlands or those communities that depend on the wetlands for their livelihoods. (National: CPs)4.1.ivAt least half of the Parties to have assessed their national and local training needs with respect to the conservation and wise use of wetlands. (National: CPs)4.1.vThe Advisory Board on to have provided practical advice to Parties to assist them in their training and broader capacity building planning and implementation activities. (Global: Advisory Board)4.1.viConvention mechanisms for wetland management, wise use, and conservation applied by a wide range of stakeholders on global, regional, national, and subnational levels. (Global to Subnational: all implementers)4.1.viiConvention’s products reaching and adopted by a wide range of target groups, including such products as decision-making frameworks, networks, and technical documents. (Global: Secretariat; National/Regional: CPs with support from IOPs)4.1.viiiA significant proportion of Parties to have assessed their capacity and training needs with respect to implementation of the policy, legislation, and institutional governance mechanisms noted in Strategy 1.3. (National: CPs)Communication mechanisms (elaborated in the Convention’s CEPA Programme)Stakeholders and rights holdersCultural benefits and servicesCase studiesTraining needs identificationTraining courses and tools availableThe Convention’s CEPA Programme 2009-2015 ( Resolution X.8)Ramsar CEPA websiteGuidelines on participatory management (HB5)Training and capacity-building framework
STRATEGY 4.2 Convention financial capacityProvide the financial resources required for the Convention’s governance, mechanisms and programmes to achieve the expectations of the Conference of the Contracting Parties, within the availability of existing resources and by the effective use of such resources; explore and enable options and mechanisms for mobilization of new and additional resources for implementation of the Convention.. (CPs, Secretariat)4.2.iAdequate resources and supporting financial policies in place to enable the Convention to discharge its responsibilities and priorities, as determined by the Conference of the Parties, in an effective manner. (Global: Secretariat; National: CPs)4.2.iiClear and unambiguous budgetary preparation and management for the Convention, with the Secretariat putting the budget allocated by the Conference of the Parties to practical use in the most effective manner possible. (Global: Secretariat)Regularly updated information on national contributionsBudget reportsRegularly updated information on national contributions
STRATEGY 4.3 Convention bodies’ effectiveness Ensure that the Conference of the Contracting Parties, Standing Committee, Scientific and Technical Review Panel, and Secretariat are operating at a high level of effectiveness to support the implementation of the Convention. (CPs, Secretariat)4.3.iAll Contracting Parties to have designated CEPA and STRP National Focal Points (by COP11), and to have kept the Secretariat updated in a timely manner on any changes in Administrative Authority focal points and daily contacts. (National: CPs)4.3.iiNational Reports used to evaluate and report on the implementation of the Strategic Plan at each meeting of the COP. (Global & Regional: Secretariat)4.3.iiiThe bodies of the Convention to have adequate funding and logistic support to deliver their modi operandi and work plans, as adopted by the Conference of the Parties. (Global: Secretariat & CPs)4.3.ivThe Secretariat, with the advice of the Standing Committee, fully managing its staffing priorities and capacities to respond to key issues of wetland conservation and wise use as they emerge. (Global: Secretariat)Up-to-date information of AA National Focal Points, and CEPA and STRP NFPs and their contact detailsSecretariat and STRP reports to COP and Standing CommitteeAvailable lists of current Administrative Authority focal points and CEPA and STRP NFPs
STRATEGY 4.4 Working with IOPs and othersMaximize the benefits of working with the Convention’s International Organization Partners (IOPs) and others. (Secretariat, IOPs)4.4.iBy COP11, each IOP and the Secretariat to have updated its MOU with the Secretariat, possibly including some joint actions by several IOPs; and by 2015 to have reviewed and as necessary revised its MOU. (Global: Secretariat, IOPs)4.4.iiSupport for the Convention’s scientific, technical and policy work integrated into the ongoing programmes of the IOPs. (Global: IOPs)4.4.iiiEfforts made by IOPs and others to help mobilizing partnerships for high priority issues for the Convention. (Global: Secretariat, IOPs; National: IOPs, CPs)· Information from IOPs on capacity and support available in different countriesReports from the IOPsRegular updated list of contact peopleMOUs and other collaborative arrangements

GOAL 5. Membership: To progress towards universal membership of the Convention

  Indicative list of information/data/metadata needs collected or provided at:
Strategic Plan 2009-2015 StrategiesKey Result Areas (KRAs) by 2015National levelInternational level
STRATEGY 5.1 Membership Secure universal membership of the Convention and provide an appropriate level of service. (CPs, Secretariat)5.1.iAchieve membership in the Convention of at least 170 Parties by COP11 and of all eligible nations by COP12. (Global: Secretariat, Standing Committee)5.1.iiStrive to make resources available to provide servicing for Parties, especially recently acceded Parties, to assist them in implementing this Strategic Plan. (Global: Secretariat, Standing Committee, donor CPs) Obligations and processes for accession guidanceAccession guidance for prospective Parties

Appendix

Different available categorizations of Convention mandates

Categories of Mandate
Resolution IX.17 reviewWise Use Handbooks, 3rd edition (2007)UNEP/IUCN “Issue-based Modules” (tematea)Ramsar Strategic Plan 2009-2015) Strategies
Convention governance and administrationRegional issuesStrategic Plans, work plans and national reportsFinance and membershipPartnerships, coordination, synergy, and international cooperation (not development assistance – see below)Development assistance; poverty reductionWetland inventory, assessment and monitoringEcological character, responses to change, management and restorationListing of Ramsar sites (process, rather than specific sites)Conservation of specific areasWise use (including peatlands, IWRM, ICZM, national planning and public participation etc)WaterCommunication, education, public awareness and capacity-buildingConceptual Framework for the wise use of wetlandsDeveloping and implementing National Wetland PoliciesReviewing laws and institutions to promote the conservation and wise use of wetlandsThe Convention’s Programme on communication, education and public awareness (CEPA) 2003-2008Establishing and strengthening local communities’ and indigenous people’s participation in the management of wetlandsAn Integrated Framework for the Convention’s water-related guidanceIntegrating wetland conservation and wise use into river basin managementGuidelines for the allocation and management of water for maintaining the ecological functions of wetlandsManaging groundwater to maintain wetland ecological characterWetland issues in Integrated Coastal Zone ManagementAn Integrated framework for wetland inventory, assessment, and monitoringA Ramsar framework for wetland inventoryGuidelines for incorporating biodiversity-related issues into environmental impact assessment legislation and/or processes and in strategic environmental assessmentStrategic Framework and guidelines for the future development of the List of Wetlands of International ImportanceAddressing change in ecological characterFrameworks for managing Ramsar sites and other wetlandsGuidelines for international cooperation under the Ramsar Convention on WetlandsAssessmentsLegislative measures and national policiesManagementEconomic instrumentsProvision of resourcesCommunication, education and public awarenessCooperationCross-cutting obligationsWetland inventory and assessmentGlobal wetland informationPolicy, legislation and institutionsCross-sectoral recognition of wetland servicesRecognition of role of the ConventionScience-based management of wetlandsIntegrated Water Resources ManagementWetland restorationInvasive alien speciesPrivate sectorIncentive measuresRamsar site designationRamsar site informationManagement planning – new Ramsar sitesRamsar site ecological characterRamsar site management effectivenessRamsar site statusManagement of other internationally important wetlandsSynergies and partnerships with MEAs and IGOsRegional initiativesInternational assistanceSharing information and expertiseShared wetlands, river basins and migratory speciesCommunication, education, participation and awarenessConvention financial capacityConvention bodies’ effectivenessWorking with IOPs and othersMembership of the Convention