UNESCO Biosphere Reserves - A path to local holistic sustainability

The interaction between nature and humanity is a critical focus in today's world. As we have distanced ourselves from nature, it's crucial to understand that in the Earth's ecosystem, one cannot take without also giving back. Creating a better balance is imperative, necessitating a holistic approach to living, dwelling, and cultivating for the thriving of all species.

Establishing a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is one way to initiate local collaboration to strengthen the interactions with environments that sustain both nature and people.

Biosphere reserves are designed to deal with one of the most important questions the world faces today: How can we reconcile the conservation of biodiversity, the quest for economic and social development and the maintenance of associated cultural values?

As UNESCO’s Man & the Biosphere (MAB) Programme has evolved, its biosphere reserves have become its principal means of implementation. The biosphere reserve concept has proved its value beyond the protected areas that each biosphere reserve contains. It is also increasingly embraced by scientists, planners, policymakers, businesses, and local communities as a way to link diverse knowledge, scientific investigations and experiences to biodiversity conservation and socio-economic development for human well-being.

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is not merely a conservation title but a tool for the well-being of both humans and the environment. Local engagement, representation, and a bottom-up approach are crucial. The location must be representative of its biogeographic region, significant for biodiversity, and involve effective governance, diverse funding, and a focus on three functions: Conservation, Development, and Logistic Support.

A guide to emphasizing local ownership, collaboration, and sustainability

This guide aims to assist people in the Nordic countries in establishing UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. By emphasizing local ownership, collaboration, and sustainability, the guide provides valuable insights to navigate the process of creating areas where nature and humanity thrive in harmony.

It also compiles insights on overcoming challenges. Key recommendations include creating a shared understanding, co-creating solutions, collaboration with municipalities, ensuring support from farmers and foresters, early involvement of local communities, and fostering partnerships with local companies and researchers.