UNESCO

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

UNESCO works to create the conditions for dialogue among civilizations, cultures and peoples, based upon respect for commonly shared values. It is through this dialogue that the world can achieve global visions of sustainable development encompassing observance of human rights, mutual respect and the alleviation of poverty, all of which are at the heart of UNESCO’S mission and activities. In relation to the Southwest Nova Biosphere Region, UNESCO’s goal is to mobilize science knowledge and policy for sustainable development and focus on an interdisciplinary research agenda spanning the ecological, social and economic dimensions of biodiversity loss and its reduction (UNESCO, 2020)

“The Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme is an intergovernmental scientific programme that aims to establish a scientific basis for enhancing the relationship between people and their environments. It combines the natural and social sciences with a view to improving human livelihoods and safeguarding natural and managed ecosystems, thus promoting innovative approaches to economic development that are socially and culturally appropriate and environmentally sustainable.” (UNESCO.org).

“Its World Network of Biosphere Reserves is a dynamic and interactive network of sites of excellence that foster harmony between people and nature for sustainable development through participatory dialogue; knowledge sharing; poverty reduction and human well-being improvements; respect for cultural values and society’s ability to cope with change.”(UNESCO.org).

2BT tree planting in the Southwest Nova : Photography by Sheridan Harel

2BT tree planting in the Southwest Nova : Photography by Sheridan Harel

Education, Science & Culture

UNESCO incorporates education, science and culture into internationally recognized biosphere reserves. Examples of Education include workshops, promotion of and showcasing best practices. Science includes research and monitoring. In the SNBRA this includes species at risk programs, Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute (MTRI), Parks Canada and Environmental Non-government organizations (ENGO’s). Culture includes showcasing the heritage and the communities living within the SNBR.

Fact sheet

  • The World Network of Biosphere Reserves covers all major representative natural and semi-natural ecosystems

  • The World Network totals 748 sites in 134 countries, including 23 transboundary sites. (2023)

  • It spans over a surface of more than 7,442,000 km² in 134 countries. It's almost the size of Australia.

  • There are about 275 million people living in Biosphere Reserves worldwide. (UNESCO.org)