Today marks the International Day of Biosphere Reserves, proclaimed in 2021 at the initiative of UNESCO’s Science Commission during its 41st General Conference. The purpose of this event is to highlight the importance of biosphere reserves in the conservation of ecosystems and biodiversity, promoting research, sustainable development and decision-making to promote the protection of the environment.

Biosphere reserves protect some of the richest and most fragile ecosystems in the world. They represent a considerable part of the world’s biodiversity, including more than 60% of terrestrial vertebrate species, 12% of mapped mangroves, 10% of salt marshes and 8% of the world’s seagrasses.

But its interest lies not only in its biodiversity, but also in its scientific, ecological and cultural value, which encourages research and education. The reserves serve as natural laboratories, where the effects of climate change are studied and innovative solutions for conservation are developed.

The creation of biosphere reserves by UNESCO dates back to 1974, with the aim of promoting the balanced and sustainable management of these spaces. The Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme, established in 1971, seeks to prevent the indiscriminate exploitation of natural resources and preserve the planet’s ecosystems. This programme emphasises the need for an integrated approach that links conservation with human development, thus ensuring a balance between resource use and environmental protection.

NEW ADDITIONS

This year, new reserves have been added to the UNESCO network, reflecting the growing global commitment to biodiversity conservation.

Specifically, last September, UNESCO approved the designation of 26 new biosphere reserves in 21 countries, an unprecedented record in 20 years. Six countries are home to their first biosphere reserve (Angola, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Iceland, Oman and Tajikistan) and Sao Tome and Principe becomes the first state to have its entire territory classified as a biosphere reserve.

With these additions, the World Network of Biosphere Reserves expands to 785 reserves in 142 countries, which means the protection of 5% of the planet and underlines the importance of protecting these valuable ecosystems. In addition, Spain stands out as a world leader, with 55 reservations distributed in 16 of the 17 autonomous communities; four of them are cross-border, three with Portugal and one intercontinental with Morocco.

Thus, November 3 is a date to reflect on the importance of biosphere reserves and the role they play in protecting our planet. These areas not only preserve biodiversity, but are also critical to human well-being, providing essential ecosystem services such as climate regulation, water purification, and crop pollination. It is essential to work to ensure that these spaces remain a valuable natural heritage for future generations.