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UNESCO Biosphere reserves

Image showing open plains of Pulborough Brooks (SSSI)Biosphere reserves serve as 'living laboratories' for testing out and demonstrating integrated management of land, water and biodiversity. Recognised internationally under the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's (UNESCO) Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme, these reserves form a global network enabling exchange of information, experience and personnel.

Biosphere reserve twinning project logoBiosphere reserve twinning project

Search for and talk to other schools in the world with their own biosphere areas, add your own data or learn more about the Africa/North Devon experience at www.ukmab.net

What are Biosphere reserves (BR)?

Biosphere reserves are areas of terrestrial and coastal ecosystems which promote solutions to bring together conservation of biodiversity with its sustainable use.

BRs are nominated by national governments, through the national MAB Committee, and must meet a minimum set of criteria and adhere to a minimum set of conditions before being added to the network. Each reserve is identified to fulfil three complementary functions:

  • a conservation function to preserve genetic resources, species, ecosystems and landscapes;
  • a development function to foster sustainable economic and human developments, and
  • a logistic support function to support demonstration projects, environmental education and training, research and monitoring related to issues of conservation and sustainable development.

UK Biosphere Reserves

Braunton Burrows National Nature Reserve

Designated 1976

Cairnsmore of Fleet, Merrick Kells and Silver Flowes National Nature Reserves

Designated 1976

Dyfi National Nature Reserve

Designated 1976

Moor House - Upper Teesdale Biosphere Reserve

Designated 1976

North Norfolk Coast Biosphere Reserve

Designated 1976

Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve

Designated 1976

Loch Druidibeg National Nature Reserve

Designated 1976

Taynish National Nature Reserve

Designated 1977

St Kilda, Claish Moss, Rhum and Caerlaverock were removed from the list of reserves in 2002. This was to make sure that the UK reserves met the same criteria as reserves globally.

Page last modified: 23 October 2008
Page published: 23 October 2008