We work on addressing the underlying causes of wetlands loss and degradation. Our research and advocacy enable action to restore, safeguard and sustainably use wetlands. Our four main strategies are:

1. Mobilising the best available expertise and knowledge

Knowledge and sound science are at the core of our work. Our conservation and restoration efforts around the world serve as our test grounds to create best practices. This research in turn informs and improves our field practices so that our knowledge can be applied to other wetlands, develop additional tools and stimulate further research by others. It also allows us to scale up our findings to influence policy. 

2. Conserving important wetlands

We work to save and restore the most important wetland areas: we illustrate their economic and environmental value to authorities, address adverse impacts and enable local people to meet their needs in ways that preserve the services provided by wetlands. 

3. Empowering communities to take action

We give communities the tools they need to restore and wisely use wetlands. We provide knowledge and trainings, build local capacity and create access to finance opportunities.

Especially in developing countries, Wetlands International facilitates local action by providing communities with microcredits through our Bio-rights scheme. Bio-rights is a microcredit finance mechanism that enables sustainable development and environmental conservation to go hand in hand. We provide microcredit to wetland communities for sustainable development enterprises and they undertake nature conservation activities to repay the interest. 

4. Advocacy

We work to improve the policies and practices of governments and companies through our local, national and international advocacy. We empower local communities to advocate for policy changes based on their own experiences and needs. We seek to influence international treaties and conventions such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

We draw press attention to the critical issues and problems faced by wetlands as a necessary first step to create opportunities for action. We also work through networks of partners to enable others to use our knowledge, research and views. 

Guidelines for our work

In carrying out our work through all our offices and with partners, Wetlands International maintains the following core values:

1. Our work is globally relevant
2. Our work is based on sound science
3. We work through partnerships with a wide range of sectors
4. We respect traditional values and knowledge
5. We work in a transparent and accountable way