From global framework to local actions and responsibilities
The Man and the Biosphere (MAB) was initiated in 1971 as a program and tool to create model areas where the interaction between mankind and the nature could be studied. From initially being a top-down program, the development in the program in recent years has given room for strong bottom-up initiatives. Thus, the program offers an excellent frame to emphasize and catalyze local solutions to the global challenges.
The core function of the MAB program and its biosphere reserves is to fulfil the three basic, equal and complementary functions:
- Conservation – conservation of natural and bio-cultural diversity
- Development – support for sustainable economic and social development and cultural diversity
- Logistic support - support and promotion of model projects, training, and education for sustainable development at the local level, while taking into account national and global scales.
The need of stakeholders should be addressed while fulfilling all three functions.
Given its holistic approach and local anchoring the MAB program and the biosphere reserves holds the potential to be strong hubs for sustainable development, addressing the global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.
