Introductory Course to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands Corporate author UNEP/InforMEA Date 2016 Source IUCN (ID: MON-092667) Title (French) Cours d'introduction à la Convention de Ramsar sur les zones humides Title (Spanish) Curso introductorio a la Convención de Ramsar relativa a los humedales Title (Other) 《国际湿地公约》入门课程 Publisher | Place of publication UNEP | www Document type Training/educational material Language English, Spanish, French, Chinese Field of application International Subject Wild species & ecosystems Keyword Wetlands Biodiversity International agreement-implementation Ecosystem preservation International agreement-text Abstract Wetlands are among the most complex and productive ecosystems in the world, comparable to rainforests and coral reefs. They can host an immense variety of species of microbes, plants, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, fish and mammals. All these species are closely linked to wetlands and to each other, forming a life cycle and a complex set of interactions. If one species disappears, the entire ecological web is endangered, which could lead to the loss of an entire ecosystem over time. For this reason, protecting wetland habitats is essential for maintaining global and national biodiversity. This course introduces you to the Ramsar Convention, which was the first treaty to recognize that wetlands are among the most productive sources of ecological support on earth. At the end of this course, you will be able to: 1.Describe the importance, characteristics and ecosystem services of wetlands 2.Identify the core components and mechanisms established by the Ramsar Convention The course is comprised of 2 units. Each unit includes a book with links to the InforMEA glossary and relevant documents and websites, additional materials and videos. Take the quiz to test your knowledge at the end of the course. It will take you 1 hour approximately to complete the course, excluding additional materials. You can manage your time as you wish and retake the course whenever it is more convenient for you. After completing all the units and passing the quiz with an 80% of correct responses, you will receive a certificate of completion. Website e-learning.informea.org Other references Treaty Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat Treaty | Multilateral | Ramsar | Feb 2, 1971 Keyword: Biodiversity, Ecosystem preservation, Birds, Protection of habitats, Wetlands, Monitoring, Management/conservation, Migratory species, Coastal zone management, Protected area, Land-use planning Source: IUCN (ID: TRE-000531)