Invitation for submissions: The Ramsar Sites photo exhibition at COP15

A key commitment of the Convention on Wetlands Contracting Parties is to identify and place suitable wetlands onto the List of Wetlands of International Importance, also known as the Ramsar List. The Convention has several mechanisms to help Contracting Parties designate their most significant wetlands as Ramsar Sites, and to take the steps necessary to manage them effectively, maintaining their ecological character.

Today, the Ramsar List is the world’s largest network of protected areas. There are over 2,400 Ramsar Sites on the territories of 172 Convention Contracting Parties across the world, covering more than 2.5 million square kilometres.

In this regard, a Ramsar Sites photo exhibition will be showcased at the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP15), celebrating the beauty, biodiversity and importance of Wetlands of International Importance worldwide. This exhibition aims to highlight the critical role these wetlands play in maintaining ecological balance, supporting biodiversity and sustaining local communities.

Invitation for Submission

The Secretariat invites Contracting Parties, International Organization Partners, photographers, conservationists, and nature enthusiasts from around the world to submit their best photographs of Wetlands of International Importance “Ramsar Sites”. These photos will help tell the story of these unique environments and their global importance.

Recognition

Photographers whose work will be displayed at COP15 will receive full credit on all exhibited photos, ensuring they are recognized for their contributions. Their work will also be featured in an online photo gallery on the Convention’s website, with credit given in all subsequent uses by the Convention. To further honour their efforts, a selection of top photos, chosen by a distinguished jury, will be showcased in a permanent display at the Secretariat's headquarters. These selected works will also be highlighted in a dedicated news story, celebrating the photographers and their role in promoting the conservation of wetlands.

Submission Guidelines

• Theme: Photos should capture the beauty, biodiversity and ecological significance of Ramsar Sites.
• Eligibility: Open to all individuals, regardless of age or professional background.
• Format: High-resolution digital images (JPEG or PNG), minimum resolution of 300 dpi.
• Submission Limit: Up to 2 photos per Contracting Party/individual photographer.
• Deadline: February 28, 2025.

How to Submit

Contracting Parties and individual photographers can submit their photos using this link.

Selection Process

The Secretariat will review all submissions, with selected photos being showcased in the exhibition. A distinguished jury, comprised of four judges, will evaluate the photos based on creativity, relevance to wetland conservation and visual impact. 

COP15 Exhibition Details

• Date: 23 – 31 July 2025

• Venue: Elephant Hills Resort, Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe