UNESCO scientific panel backs Valencia’s Albufera for biosphere reserve status

The Scientific Council of Spain’s Man and the Biosphere (MaB) programme has issued a favorable technical report on the Albufera de Valencia wetland, confirming that the site meets UNESCO’s ecological, landscape, cultural and social criteria for biosphere reserve designation. The report praises the area's unique combination of a Mediterranean wetland, historic agricultural landscape and densely populated metropolitan surroundings, and recommends finalising a management plan with clear indicators, timelines, economic forecasts and governance structures.

More than 250 representatives from local administrations, universities, research institutes, farmers, fishers and NGOs participated in the candidacy process. Valencia’s City Council will incorporate the council’s recommendations, complete the required documentation and submit the final dossier to UNESCO. If approved, the Albufera would become a reference peri‑urban biosphere reserve in Spain and a model for integrated territory management and sustainable development.