India is a party to the Ramsar Convention and has declared many areas as Ramsar sites. Which of the following statements best describes how we should maintain these sites in the context of this convention?

Correct Option (D)

TheRamsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance(1971) promotes the "wise use" of wetlands. This concept involves theconservation of wetlands and their ecological character through an ecosystem approach, while simultaneously allowing for theirsustainable use. Sustainable use implies human activities that are compatible with the maintenance of the natural properties of the ecosystem. This includes various forms of resource utilization and livelihoods, provided they do not lead to degradation of the wetland's ecological integrity. Therefore,conserving sites through an ecosystem approach and permitting their simultaneous sustainable usealigns with the core principles of the Ramsar Convention.

Incorrect Options

Option (1): The Ramsar Convention does not advocate for making wetlands completely inaccessible to humans. Its fundamental principle of "wise use" explicitly encourages sustainable human interaction and utilization of wetland resources, rather than strict exclusion.

Option (2): Limiting human activity to "only tourism and recreation" is too restrictive. The Ramsar Convention's "wise use" concept encompasses a broader range of sustainable activities, including traditional livelihoods such as fishing, agriculture, and other resource uses, alongside eco-tourism, provided they are managed sustainably.

Option (3): The convention does not propose a model of temporary non-exploitation followed by future use. Instead, it advocates for the simultaneous application of conservation measures and sustainable use practices. The "wise use" principle emphasizes ongoing management that integrates both ecological protection and human benefit concurrently.