Jayashree Vencatesan, co-founder of Care Earth Trust, has become the first Indian to receive the Ramsar Award for ‘Wetland Wise Use’, a prestigious global recognition for sustainable wetland management. This recognition marks a milestone for India in global wetland conservation efforts, reinforcing the importance of sustainable wetland management.
Historic Recognition
- Jayashree is among 12 women changemakers honored by Ramsar Secretariat in Geneva on eve of International Women’s Day.
- She was awarded under the ‘wise use of wetlands’ category, alongside global leaders like Celeste Saulo (WMO Secretary-General), Jennifer George (CEO, East Asian-Australasian Flyway Partnership Secretariat), and Tatiana Minayeva (Care for Ecosystems Consultant).
Jayashree Vencatesan’s Contributions to Wetland Conservation
- Known for her decades-long work in preserving India’s wetlands, especially Pallikaranai Marsh in Chennai.
- Started conservation efforts with just $350, highlighting the critical role of marshlands in flood mitigation and biodiversity conservation.
- Led an all-women research team, mentoring young female conservationists and expanding wetland awareness.
About Ramsar Wetland Conservation Awards
- Established in 1996, these awards honor individuals and organizations for wetland conservation and wise use.
- Winners receive the Evian Special Prize of USD 10,000, sponsored by Danone.
Award Categories
- Ramsar Wetland Conservation Award for Innovation – Recognizes innovative techniques or approaches for wetland conservation.
- Ramsar Wetland Conservation Award for Young Wetland Champions – Honors individuals (18-30 years) contributing to wetland conservation and restoration.
- Ramsar Wetland Indigenous Peoples Conservation and Wise Use Award – Acknowledges outstanding leadership by indigenous groups in wetland preservation.
Ramsar Convention on Wetlands
The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, (came into force in 1975) to conserve and ensure the sustainable use of wetlands. It is the only global environmental treaty focused on wetlands.
- Members: 172 countries (as of 2024)
- India’s Membership: 1982
Objectives
- Conservation & Wise Use: Protect wetlands and their biodiversity.
- Sustainable Development: Promote responsible use for present and future generations.
- International Cooperation: Encourage cross-border conservation efforts.
Ramsar Sites
- Wetlands designated as internationally important are called Ramsar Sites.
- As of 2024, there are over 2,500 Ramsar Sites worldwide.
- As of February 2025, there are 89 Ramsar Sites in India, covering over 1.3 million hectares (largest in South Asia). Tamil Nadu (20) boasts the highest number of Ramsar Sites..