Piloting the rapid R-MEET framework at a coastal Ramsar Site

Abstract

Context The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is critical to conserving wetlands. However, it has received much criticism, particularly about the inadequacy of reporting by Contracting Parties. Aim We previously developed a rapid assessment tool called the Rapid Ramsar Management Effectiveness Evaluation Tool (Rapid R-MEET) to alleviate the reporting burden and emphasise the Convention’s priorities. Methods In this paper, we pilot this tool in the Caroni Swamp Ramsar Site in Trinidad. We also conduct a policy-gap analysis to understand the context in which management decisions are being made. Key results We found serious gaps in management capacity and a complex institutional context in which wetland decision-making takes place that undermine the successful implementation of the Ramsar Convention in the twin island nation. Conclusions These limitations have created a system of Ramsar Sites with minimal monitoring, research, and enforcement to achieve the Convention’s goals, particularly crippling reporting on ecological character. Implications Better coordination among agencies involved in wetland management, as well as more robust resourcing for management, is needed to achieve wetland conservation goals at the national and site levels. We also found that the Rapid R-MEET can be completed efficiently and effectively by external researchers, providing an avenue to increase collaboration, support under-resourced management teams, and improve reporting to the Convention.