Q. With reference to Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) Scheme, consider the following statements:
1.The scheme aims to provide financial assistance to cities for wetland restoration and infrastructure development.
2.The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) has established the scheme.
3.Presence of a Ramsar Site within the city limits is a criterion required for Wetland City Accreditation.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Explanation –
Statements 1, 2 and 3 are incorrect. The Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) Scheme does not provide financial assistance to cities for wetland restoration and infrastructure development. The scheme’s primary objective is to recognize and promote the conservation and wise use of urban wetlands, as well as to support cities in their efforts to protect these critical ecosystems. The Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) Scheme has been established by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. While having a Ramsar Site within the city limits can be an advantage and showcase strong wetland conservation efforts, it’s not a mandatory criterion for WCA. Cities without Ramsar Sites can still be accredited based on their demonstrably significant wetland resources and effective management practices.
Recently, MoEF&CC has nominated Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), and Udaipur (Rajasthan) for Wetland City Accreditation (WCA).
Source: Forum IAS
