Q. Consider the following statements:
1.Ramsar Sites focus specifically on wetlands, while National Parks can encompass any type of protected area.
2.Ramsar Sites prioritize strict conservation, while National Parks emphasize sustainable use.
3.International framework governs Ramsar Sites, while national legislation manages National Parks.
4.All National Parks are automatically designated as Ramsar Sites, but not all Ramsar Sites are designated as National Parks.
How many of the above statements are correct with respect to the differences between a Ramsar Site and a National Park?
Explanation –
Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Ramsar Sites are designated specifically for the conservation of wetlands, while National Parks can cover various types of ecosystems. Ramsar Sites fall under an international treaty, the Ramsar Convention, while National Parks are typically managed by national legislation and regulations.
Statements 2 and 4 are incorrect. National Parks generally prioritize strict conservation with limited human activities rather than emphasizing sustainable use. Whereas, Ramsar Sites focus on sustainable use. While some areas may overlap and hold both designations, being a National Park does not automatically make an area a Ramsar Site. However, some National Parks may also be designated as Ramsar Sites if they meet the criteria for wetland importance.
Source: Forum IAS
