As efforts accelerate to deliver the Biodiversity Plan, the urgency to address the loss and degradation of wetlands worldwide becomes clearer and more crucial. Wetlands cover only about 6% of the Earth’s surface, yet they support 40% of all known plant and animal species. Despite their significance, over 3 million km2 of wetland ecosystems have been lost since 1700, far outpacing the degradation of other biomes. 

Wetlands, from peatlands and marshes, rivers and lakes, to estuaries and deltas, are key to achieving multiple goals and targets of the Biodiversity Plan, due to their role as biodiversity hotspots and ecosystem connectors, for carbon storage, water quality, and as buffers against flooding and drought. The importance of wetlands extends beyond their ecological functions. They underpin sustainable economies, enhancing agricultural productivity, supporting fisheries, and offering opportunities for ecotourism. Socially, they are culturally significant areas that provide recreational spaces, support traditional ways of life, and maintain the heritage of local communities. 

By ensuring the strategic incorporation of wetlands across multiple targets and indicators, we can enable the successful implementation of Biodiversity Plan, boost synergies with climate action and other MEAs, and strengthen the socio-economic fabric of nations. The event will feature a new assessment of wetlands in National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), providing an insightful and timely follow up to guidance on the inclusion of wetlands in NBSAPs launched at a webinar earlier this year, co-organised by the Secretariats of the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Convention on Wetlands. 

This side event will:

1. Present findings of assessment of wetlands in NBSAPs and national targets covering NBSAPs submitted in the advance of COP16, focusing on diverse wetland types and highlighting examples of wetlands of high biodiversity importance.

2. Showcase examples of wetland restoration and conservation from Contracting Parties, including France and Zambia, and others  - highlighting the contribution of wetlands to the implementation of the Biodiversity Plan including targets on restoration, 30x30, species, climate, ecosystem services, and urban green and blue spaces.

3. Share best practices and practical guidance for designing and delivering wetland action through NBSAPs, across a range of wetland ecosystems, to enhance synergies across multiple MEAs.