Mission and Goals

The World Network of Biosphere Reserves dates back to the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) program launched by UNESCO in 1970. The aim was to designate representative landscapes as model regions for the conservation of natural resources, sustainable economic development, education and research. The objectives and functions of biosphere reserves are defined in UNESCO’s international guidelines. Regions can apply to be recognized as biosphere reserves by UNESCO if they meet certain criteria. Mandatory in each biosphere reserveis a three-part zoning with graded intensity of land use and different functions.

The recognition by UNESCO entails many advantages. It includes not only opportunities for nature, economy and society associated with the high credibility of the UNESCO designation, but also easier access to national and international funding and the possibility of exchange with other regions within the world network of UNESCO biosphere reserves. There are currently 738 biosphere reserves in 134 countries worldwide, with a wide variety of focal points. Each country participating in the MAB program establishes a committee that acts as a link between international and national levels. This is usually a national committee. The German national committee is chaired by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) and managed by the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN).