UNESCO Recently Added 11 New Biosphere Reserves Worldwide:
UNESCO recently added 11 new biosphere reserves worldwide, spanning countries like Colombia, Italy, Mongolia, and the Republic of Korea.
- These reserves, including two transboundary sites, aim to conserve biodiversity and cultural heritage amid global biodiversity and climate challenges.
- Biosphere Reserves try to balance economic and social development and maintenance of associated cultural values along with the preservation of nature.
- There are now 759 reserves in 136 countries, including 24 transboundary sites. India has 18 internationally recognized Biosphere reserves, with the Nilgiri reserve being the first.
- The latest addition is Panna in Madhya Pradesh.
- Twelve of the eighteen biosphere reserves are a part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, based on the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme list.
- November 3 is celebrated as World Biosphere Reserve Day (to raise awareness of the importance of biosphere reserves)
- Biosphere reserves are areas designated by UNESCO to promote the conservation of biodiversity, sustainable development, and scientific research.
- It is managed by Managed under UNESCO’s Man and Biodiversity Programme. They consist of three zones:
- a core zone for the strict protection of ecosystems
- a buffer zone where people live and work in harmony with nature
- a transition zone for sustainable activities.
