ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

Ramsar Sites in the British Overseas Territories

The British Overseas Territories have designated 16 wetlands as "wetlands of international importance" under the Ramsar Convention, a global framework for conserving and managing wetland ecosystems. These designations recognize the unique cultural, historical, or scientific significance of these wetlands, which are considered to be of international importance.

The list includes sites from various territories across the British Overseas Territories, including Bermuda, British Indian Ocean Territory, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Cyprus, Falkland Islands, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, Turks and Caicos Islands. These wetlands are home to diverse flora and fauna, providing essential habitats for numerous species of plants and animals.

The Ramsar Convention aims to conserve and manage these wetlands sustainably, balancing human activities with environmental protection. The designation process involves a thorough assessment of the site's ecological significance, cultural importance, or scientific value. This recognition not only highlights the unique characteristics of each site but also underscores the need for conservation efforts to preserve these vital ecosystems.

For those interested in exploring all Ramsar sites worldwide, it is recommended to consult the List of Wetlands of International Importance of the Ramsar Convention.