Wetlands and people

Abstract

In this report, researchers give many examples of the value of wetlands to rural poor communities in Asia, Africa and Latin America, and discuss ways to manage them sustainably. Several wetlands in Sri Lanka – Negombo, Kalametiya, Bundala and Embilikala lagoons, are also highlighted. Small-scale sustainable fishing by canoe Small-scale sustainable fishing by canoe has been practiced for generations. Here father and son drag their canoe ashore after a day’s fishing in Mundal lagoon. Wetlands are important environments for people, wildlife and plants as they provide freshwater, food and services, such as medicines and fuel tourism, and contribute to the livelihoods of millions of the world’s poor. But if they are not exploited sustainably, the people and the environment suffer. Wetlands and People encourages a ‘people-centred approach to managing wetlands and supports the move away from their absolute protection to an approach that integrates conservation with development.