UICN - Union internationale pour la conservation de la nature

Tanguar Haor - making the most of its natural treasures

15 February 2011 | Video

In Bangladesh, IUCN is working with local communities to conserve and sustain a unique wetland ecosystem, Tanguar Haor. This biologically diverse area, which is home to some rare plant and animal species and supports the lives of more than 56,000 people, was declared a Ramsar site - Wetland of International Importance - in 2000.

Alongside being globally important for its exceptional biodiversity, Tanguar Haor also plays a critical economic role for Bangladesh. The wetland supports freshwater fisheries, directly sustains the livelihoods of over 56,000 people from 88 surrounding villages and largely contributes to the country's food production and security.

But the standard of living in Tanguar Haor is very low, and the wetlands are being exploited in an unsustainable manner. IUCN works to make sure that Tanguar Haor’s rich natural resources are being conserved and used more sustainably. It aims to help local communities manage the area more efficiently and create new opportunities to generate income.

For more information, please contact:

AFM Rezaul Karim, Community Based Sustainable Management of Tanguar Haor, e-mail: Rezaul.Karim@iucn.org