UNESCO marks International Day of Biosphere Reserves

November 3 marks the International Day of Biosphere Reserves, an observance established by UNESCO in 2021 to highlight the importance of protected areas in preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development.

UNESCO reports that the World Network of Biosphere Reserves currently includes 797 sites across 145 countries. These territories serve as living laboratories where conservation efforts, scientific research, and environmental education coexist with local economic activities.

In Spain, the day recognizes 55 biosphere reserves spread across 16 autonomous communities, including sites such as Doñana, Sierra Nevada, and the recently created Irati Reserve. In Colombia, June Marie Mow Robinson was honored as a ‘Biosphere Guardian’ for her work with the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve in the San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina archipelago.

In Portugal, the Madeira region celebrates its two recognized reserves, Santana and Porto Santo, which protect endemic species and unique ecosystems like the Laurissilva forest. The global initiative aims to address the climate crisis and ecosystem degradation through community-led conservation and scientific cooperation.