Scaling Up Successful Models and Expanding Participatory Wetland Conservation in Iran

The third phase of the Conservation of Iranian Wetlands Project (CIWP) began in 2021 and continued until 2024. Due to a temporary lack of financial resources, project implementation was suspended for one year. In 2025, the project resumed with a refined approach aimed at consolidating previous achievements, strengthening the sustainability of project outcomes, and linking wetland conservation with sustainable value chains for local products. The current phase will continue through 2028. Building upon the experience gained during the first two phases, Phase III focuses on scaling up proven approaches, expanding participatory conservation, applying innovative technologies, and enhancing the resilience of local communities to climate change. During this phase, the ecosystem-based management approach was introduced in 32 additional wetlands, increasing the total number of wetlands adopting this approach to 49. Project activities have also expanded to new wetlands, including Anzali Wetland.

Advancing Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture programs are currently being implemented in 305 villages across five provinces. Since the beginning of the project, more than 17,500 farmers have received training. The implementation of sustainable farming practices has resulted in a 27.7% reduction in irrigation water use, a 55% increase in water productivity, a 25% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, and a 16% increase in agricultural production.

Promoting Wetland-Compatible Livelihoods

Wetland-compatible livelihood programs have been introduced in 117 villages, leading to the establishment of 882 livelihood groups. More than 4,100 rural women and men have participated in training programs. In addition, collaboration with non-governmental organizations, local enterprises, and village microfinance funds has expanded to support the development of sustainable businesses compatible with wetland ecosystems.

Education, Awareness, and Capacity Development

Education and public awareness activities have been further expanded during this phase. To date, more than 110 campaigns, exhibitions, and festivals have been organized, while over 7,000 students have participated in environmental education programs. A wide range of educational materials, training videos, and community engagement toolkits has also been produced and disseminated to promote wetland conservation.

Community-Based Monitoring and Local Participation

The volunteer wetland monitoring program continues to operate across eight wetlands through 16 monitoring stations. At the same time, the project has increasingly incorporated innovative technologies for ecosystem monitoring and environmental data management, enabling more informed, evidence-based decision-making for wetland conservation and restoration.

Looking Ahead

During the remainder of Phase III, project activities will focus on the four pilot wetlands of Lake Urmia, Parishan, Shadegan, and Anzali. Key priorities include expanding sustainable agriculture, strengthening wetland-compatible livelihoods, increasing community participation, applying advanced monitoring technologies, and transferring successful experiences to other wetlands across Iran. The ultimate goal of this phase is to transform the project's achievements into nationally recognized models for the conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of Iran's wetland ecosystems.