A key cross sectoral challenge for Pakistan is to build a resilient interrelated socio economic and ecological system.

Despite the generally arid nature of Pakistan's climate, 10 per cent (780,000 ha) of the total surface area of the country is covered by wetlands which are of global importance (GOP, IUCN and WWF, 2000). Due to growing population pressures and habitat loss exacerbated by climate change, the wetlands are facing increasing pressures.

According to this video, the areas around the Himalayas are most affected by melting glaciers, a product of climate change. This video tells the story of the Jhelum Basin experiences in adapting to climate change in the Himalayas. Made by Wetlands International South Asia programme, it explains the issues around and the role of wetlands in these mountain areas in regulating water flows and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

This paper describes the challenges surrounding current and future water use in the tropical Andes by first reviewing the modern and future projected hydrological cycle and anticipated impacts on environmental services provided by glaciers and wetland vegetation. The discussion then elaborates on the current tensions and conflicts surrounding water use from a social and economic perspective and ends by focusing on the challenges ahead and looking at possible solutions for more sustainable and equitable future water use in the region.

The conversion of wetlands to agriculture through drainage and flooding, and the burning of wetland areas for agriculture have important implications for greenhouse gas (GHG) production and changing carbon stocks. However, the estimation of net GHG changes from mitigation practices in agricultural wetlands is complex compared to dryland crops. Agricultural wetlands have more complicated carbon and nitrogen cycles with both above- and below-ground processes and export of carbon via vertical and horizontal movement of water through the wetland.

This article analyses factors that contribute to the livelihood of smallholder farmers living near the Cyabayaga and Rugeramigoziwetlands. Three tools were used: focus group discussion, formal surveys and Monitoring for Quality Improvement (MONQI). Farming systems in wetlands and on hillsides differ. Level of education, resource availability, land ownership and location have important impacts on the location and type of farming systems practised by households. The dependency of households on wetlands varies between sites.