Biosphere Reserves are designated areas that aim to conserve biodiversity, promote sustainable development, and provide opportunities for research and education.

UNESCO is the lead agency for the Biosphere Reserve program and works in collaboration with other organizations to implement and monitor the program.

Biosphere Reserves typically consist of a core zone, which is strictly protected for conservation, a buffer zone where sustainable activities are allowed, and a transition zone where human activities are managed in a sustainable manner.

While Biosphere Reserves may attract tourism, their primary purpose is not to generate revenue but to conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable development.

As of 2023, there are over 700 Biosphere Reserves in 129 countries around the world.

China has the most Biosphere Reserves, with over 50 reserves designated by UNESCO.

The Central Amazon Biosphere Reserve in Brazil is the largest Biosphere Reserve in the world, covering an area of over 6 million hectares.

Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is home to the largest population of gorillas in the world, with over 3,000 individuals.

Habitat loss and fragmentation due to human activities such as deforestation, agriculture, and urbanization are the main threats to Biosphere Reserves worldwide.

Local communities can contribute to the success of Biosphere Reserves by actively participating in conservation and sustainable development initiatives, such as reforestation, sustainable agriculture, and ecotourism.

Education and research play a crucial role in Biosphere Reserves by raising awareness about conservation and sustainable development, monitoring the status of biodiversity and ecosystems, and developing sustainable management practices.

Biosphere Reserves can contribute to achieving the SDGs by conserving biodiversity and ecosystems, promoting sustainable land management and agriculture, and providing opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.

Biosphere Reserves play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by conserving carbon sinks, promoting sustainable land management practices, and providing opportunities for research on climate change adaptation and mitigation.

Biosphere Reserves can contribute to promoting peace and cooperation among countries by fostering transboundary cooperation for conservation and sustainable development, providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration between different stakeholders, and promoting cultural exchange and understanding among people from different countries.