International Day for Biosphere Reserves

Biosphere Reserves are those areas of our planet that possess natural resources and represent the diversity of habitats, harboring a wide variety of ecosystems and biodiversity. They represent the areas with the highest concentration of wildlife, both flora and fauna.

UNESCO proclaimed November 3 International Day of Biosphere Reserves to highlight the importance of these natural spaces in the conservation of ecosystems and biodiversity, promoting research, sustainable development and decision-making on environmental care.

This international day was proclaimed for the first time in 2021 on the initiative of the Science Commission, being approved at the 41st General Conference of UNESCO, but the background of this proclamation dates back to 1974 when this international organization, with the support of the governments of several countries, created the Biosphere Reserves, with the aim of promoting the balanced, fair and equitable management of these spaces, avoiding the indiscriminate exploitation of natural resources and conserving the planet's ecosystems.

Biosphere reserves involve local communities and all interested parties in planning and management. The three main functions that contribute to the sustainability of communities and their link to their natural balance are: conservation of biodiversity and cultural diversity, socio-cultural and environmentally sustainable economic development, and logistical support that sustains development through research, monitoring, education and training.