Is your city a champion for its local rivers, lakes, marshes, or coastal waters? The call is now open for cities to apply for the Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) for the 2026–2028 triennium.
This global recognition celebrates urban and peri-urban centers that demonstrate exceptional stewardship of their wetland ecosystems. The accreditation highlights cities that successfully integrate wetland conservation into municipal planning, promote “wise use” and foster deep community engagement.
Why apply?
Wetlands are often the quiet force behind urban environments. They mitigate flooding, cool cities, and provide vital habitats for biodiversity. By becoming an accredited Wetland City, your municipality joins a recognized global network that stands for:
Protecting and restoring vital water ecosystems
Integrating nature-based solutions into urban infrastructure
Involving local citizens in environmental conservation
ICLEI’s ongoing support
For over a decade, ICLEI Cities Biodiversity Center (CBC) has been a dedicated partner in the global effort to protect urban wetlands. As a permanent member of the Wetland City Accreditation Independent Advisory Committee since its inception, ICLEI CBC plays a vital role in:
Promoting the scheme to cities worldwide
Evaluating applications and ensuring rigorous standards
Showcasing city achievements on the international stage, including at Ramsar COP award ceremonies
The impact of this initiative continues to grow. At the most recent Convention on Wetlands COP15, 31 newly accredited Wetland Cities were honored for their commitment to a sustainable future. You can [read our full report here] to learn more about their inspiring success stories.
Join the next cohort
Does your city have what it takes to be a global leader in wetland conservation? Don’t miss the opportunity to have your local efforts recognized on the world stage.
Learn more about the application process and requirements: