Locations
Bogs, peatlands and lakes play a crucial role in regulating climate and maintaining biodiversity.
Globally wetlands provide a home for over 100,000 species of plants and animals, including a rich variety of waterfowl.
Ramsar Convention: international cooperation
Every year, on the 2nd of February 2nd, the world celebrates World Wetlands Day, marking the anniversary of the Ramsar Convention, the first global treaty dedicated to the conservation and sustainable use of these essential ecosystems.
Adopted in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971, and coming into force in 1975, the Convention now unites 172 nations, including Belarus, which joined it in 1999.
Belarus's first internationally recognized wetland was the Sporauski Nature Reserve in Brest region.
26 Belarusian wetlands, covering 778,900 hectares, are included in the Ramsar List.
Keeping Score: The Importance of National Reporting
A key element of the Ramsar Convention is national reporting. Every three years, member countries submit detailed progress reports in meeting their commitments. These reports are more than just paperwork; they are a vital tool for monitoring the health of wetlands worldwide and informing future conservation strategies.
National reporting allows countries to evaluate the effectiveness of their conservation efforts, identify emerging threats, and develop targeted solutions. It also promotes transparency and accountability, fostering international collaboration in wetland protection and sustainable management.
Belarus actively participates in this process. With support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the country prepared its latest national report for 2021-2024, showcasing significant progress in wetland conservation.
Key Achievements: A Look at the Numbers
In total, since 2007, the total area of restored peatlands in Belarus has reached 89.4 thousand hectares.
Between 2021 and 2024, 7,900 hectares of drained peatlands were re-wetted, bringing the total restored area since 2007 to an impressive 89,400 hectares. This is a significant step towards the country's goal of restoring 100,000 hectares by 2030.
Beyond peatland restoration, the country has made strides in other key areas. A new National Strategy for Water Resources Management in the Context of Climate Change (up to 2030) has been developed with UNDP support, providing a roadmap for adapting to climate change and ensuring sustainable water use.
Additionally, an innovative technique for rehabilitating contaminated peatlands, preventing the spread of radionuclides, has been successfully piloted across nearly 6,000 hectares in the Chernobyl-affected areas of Belarus.
As part of efforts to preserve biodiversity, almost 24,000 hectares of new protected areas, including several important nature reserves, have been established, safeguarding vital wetland habitats.
A comprehensive management plan for the Pripyat River basin, a unique European river system with near-pristine wetlands, was approved in 2023.
Looking Ahead: Priorities for 2026-2028
"Sporauskaye" fen mire in spring.
Belarus has set ambitious targets for the coming years. Restoring peatlands remains a top priority, with the goal of reaching 100,000 hectares by 2030. A national peatland register is also planned, which will streamline data collection and resource allocation for future restoration efforts.
Furthermore, Belarus is committed to updating its national Ramsar strategy to align with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, strengthening international cooperation and enhancing protection of wetland species.
The UNDP plays a crucial role in supporting Belarus's wetland conservation efforts, providing valuable expertise and resources. By working together, Belarus and the UNDP are ensuring the protection and sustainable management of these vital ecosystems for generations to come.
