EGS XXVI General Assembly, Nice, France, March 2001

HSB4. Wetland management:

Event Information

As a result of ignorance of their value, many wetlands have been destroyed by conversion, drainage, water abstraction or river engineering, such as dam construction. The area of wetlands worldwide has decreased dramatically and wetlands have become threatened environments. However, more recent promotion of the positive aspects of wetlands (including their biodiversity and hydrological functions) by conservation bodies has begun to change attitudes. Many countries have signed the Convention of Wetlands (Ramsar, 1971) and have established national legislation to protect wetlands. This has led to conservation and restoration of some wetlands, whilst degradation continues in other cases. This symposium focuses on weltand management. In particular, studies are welcome that demonstrate restoration or degradation of natural functioning due to human action, either within the wetland itelf or within its catchment upstream. Interdisciplinary research project, where collaborative work of ecology, biochemistry, hydrology etc has led to better management are especially encouraged.

Preliminary List of Solicited Speakers

Co-Sponsorship