2010 is the International Year of Biodiversity and this year's World Wetlands Day has been given the theme of "Wetlands, Biodiversity, and Climate Change."

The wetlands, sometimes referred to as the earth's "idneys," are among the world's most diverse and productive natural ecosystems. China possesses the world's fourth-largest area of wetland, with 2,276 plant, 3,200 animal, and 1000 fish species.

The theme of the 2010 Wetlands Ambassador Competition is "Map the beauty of the wetlands." College students will go into the wild, observe the wetlands and record on maps the natural scenery, the distribution of animals and plants, and any damage to the environment.

The nationwide event is aimed at helping people understand the wetland environments neighboring big cities, and enhancing public of the relationship between the wetlands and human beings.

Selected:

Environmental societies in China's universities and colleges can apply to take part as teams.

The organizers will choose 20 teams from among the applicants. They will offer 5,000 yuan for class-A teams who take part in activities in nature reserves, and 3,000 yuan for class-B teams who will visit wetlands near their home cities.

The winning team will receive a trophy and a sponsored trip to a wetlands area.

To take part: register at www.shidi.org and www.56.com; and send an application form to wwf@vip.qq.com

Deadline: May 18, 2010

Organizations:

State Administration of Forestry

World Wildlife Fund

Ramsar Convention

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