For the purpose of this Convention wetlands are areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brakish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six metres.
Overeenkomst inzake watergebieden van internationale betekenis, in het bijzonder als verblijfplaats voor watervogels
Geldig vanaf 1 mei 1994
Geldig vanaf 1 mei 1994
Overeenkomst inzake watergebieden van internationale betekenis, in het bijzonder als verblijfplaats voor watervogels
Opschrift
Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat
Preambule
The Contracting Parties,
Recognizing the interdependence of man and his environment;
Considering the fundamental ecological functions of wetlands as regulators of water régimes and as habitats supporting a characteristic flora and fauna, especially waterfowl;
Being convinced that wetlands constitute a resource of great economic, cultural, scientific and recreational value, the loss of which would be irreparable;
Desiring to stem the progressive encroachment on and loss of wetlands now and in the future;
Recognizing that waterfowl in their seasonal migrations may transcend frontiers and so should be regarded as an international resource;
Being confident that the conservation of wetlands and their flora and fauna can be ensured by combining far-sighted national policies with co-ordinated international action;
Have agreed as follows: