YEW

Youth Engaged in Wetlands (YEW): A Global Movement for Conservation

A Vision Takes Shape

In 2018, during the 13th Conference of the Parties (COP13) of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in Dubai, a significant moment in youth-led environmental advocacy unfolded. A diverse group of young environmentalists from around the world came together, united by a common goal: to amplify youth involvement in wetland conservation. This gathering marked the foundation of Youth Engaged in Wetlands (YEW), an international network committed to protecting and sustainably managing wetlands.

Although I was not a founding member, I later became part of YEW’s first core team, playing an active role in shaping its strategic direction. This movement has brought together young minds from different backgrounds, breaking geographical and cultural barriers to work towards a shared mission—ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of the world’s wetlands.

The Urgency of Wetland Conservation

Wetlands are among the most ecologically valuable ecosystems on Earth. They play a critical role in maintaining biodiversity, mitigating climate change, purifying water sources, and supporting livelihoods. Despite their importance, wetlands continue to face alarming degradation due to pollution, land encroachment, and climate change. Recognizing the urgency of conservation efforts, YEW was established as a platform to empower young environmentalists to take meaningful action.

My Journey into Wetland Advocacy

My commitment to wetland conservation is deeply personal. Born and raised in Kerala, India, I pursued my undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the College of Agriculture, Vellayani. Living near Vellayani Lake, one of Kerala’s most significant freshwater wetlands, I developed a profound appreciation for these ecosystems and their interconnectedness with local communities. Witnessing both the benefits and threats to this fragile environment shaped my understanding of the conservation challenges wetlands face.

As a Regional Coordinator and Asia Representative for YEW, I played an active role in expanding the network’s outreach in Asia. A key milestone in my journey was attending YEW’s first in-person strategic planning meeting in Tokyo, Japan, in January 2020. This meeting was instrumental in defining YEW’s long-term vision and strategies. One of my key contributions was helping to develop the YEW Strategic Plan (2020-2024)—a comprehensive framework designed to guide youth-driven wetland conservation initiatives worldwide.

Building a Global Movement

YEW emerged from a shared concern among young scientists, conservationists, policymakers, and students. Our mission was clear: to engage, empower, and equip youth with the knowledge and tools needed to contribute actively to wetland conservation. From its inception, YEW has served as a unified voice for young environmentalists, ensuring that wetlands remain a priority in global conservation discussions.

Developing a Strategic Plan: A Collaborative Approach

To ensure that YEW’s mission was both impactful and sustainable, we dedicated extensive efforts to formulating a structured strategic plan. As a core team member, I collaborated with fellow conservationists to outline key objectives, actionable steps, and long-term goals. The YEW Strategic Plan (2020-2024) focused on four primary areas:

Awareness & Education – Conducting workshops, campaigns, and outreach programs to educate the public about the ecological importance of wetlands.
Community Engagement – Encouraging local communities to take an active role in wetland conservation and restoration efforts.
Policy Advocacy – Collaborating with governments and international organizations to influence policies that promote wetland protection.
Capacity Building – Providing young conservationists with training, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities.

Learning from Global Conservation Efforts: The Tokyo Expedition

To develop effective and practical conservation strategies, YEW members, including myself, participated in a study tour to Tokyo, Japan. This expedition provided valuable insights into successful wetland restoration projects and innovative conservation models.

Japan has been a leader in environmental sustainability, particularly through its National Biodiversity Strategy of Japan (2012-2020), which prioritizes wetland restoration. During our visit, we explored urban nature parks and engaged with local conservation experts to understand their approaches to habitat rehabilitation.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the Tokyo experience was witnessing community-driven conservation initiatives. Public participation played a crucial role in wetland restoration, reinforcing our belief that education and engagement are fundamental to long-term conservation success. These learnings significantly influenced YEW’s approach to integrating public awareness and participatory programs into our conservation model.

YEW’s Contribution to Wetland Restoration

Inspired by global best practices, YEW has actively led and supported wetland restoration efforts worldwide. Our conservation strategy is built around three key pillars:

1. Community Engagement

YEW collaborates with local communities to foster a sense of environmental responsibility. By involving residents and young volunteers in restoration projects, we ensure that conservation efforts are both sustainable and community-driven.

2. Educational Outreach

Raising awareness about the ecological, economic, and social significance of wetlands is at the core of our mission. Through workshops, online campaigns, and educational resources, YEW inspires the next generation of environmental leaders.

3. Policy Advocacy

YEW works alongside governmental and non-governmental organizations to advocate for stronger policies protecting wetland ecosystems. We actively participate in international forums, such as Ramsar COP meetings, to ensure that youth voices are heard in global conservation policy discussions.

A Personal Commitment to Conservation

Looking back on this journey, I am reminded of the profound impact of youth-led environmental initiatives. From the strategic planning sessions that shaped YEW’s future to the hands-on experiences in Tokyo, every step has reinforced my commitment to wetland conservation.

What started as a vision among a small group of passionate young environmentalists has grown into a global movement, empowering thousands of youth worldwide. As YEW continues to expand its reach, I remain hopeful that our collective efforts will drive lasting change and ensure the protection of wetlands for future generations.

The battle to conserve these vital ecosystems is far from over, but with dedicated youth leaders, strategic planning, and global collaboration, we can make a significant difference.

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