3 November is International Biosphere Reserves Day

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International Biosphere Reserves Day is celebrated every year with the aim of raising awareness of the importance of protecting and managing the Earth's natural resources in a sustainable way. Biosphere Reserves are special areas designated by UNESCO that promote the balance between the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable economic development. This day aims to strengthen global cooperation to safeguard these vital ecosystems for our planet.

The Biosphere Reserves are geographical areas in which the preservation of biodiversity is combined with the sustainable use of natural resources, in order to use land resources without overexploiting them, and thus pursue the goals of sustainable development. These areas are established in terrestrial, marine or coastal areas and serve to promote the harmonious coexistence of nature and human activities. In Europe, there are more than 300 biosphere reserves, spread over more than 35 countries. Each reserve includes a protected core zone, a buffer zone for research and monitoring activities, and a transition zone where sustainable economic activities are permitted.

International Biosphere Reserves Day is celebrated on 3 November to commemorate UNESCO's endorsement of the MAB Programme on this date in 1971, and was established in 2021 with Resolution 37 at the 41st Conference . The MAB programme is an intergovernmental scientific programme initiated by UNESCO in 1971 to promote, on a scientific basis, a balanced relationship between man and the environment through the protection of biodiversity and the best practices of Sustainable Development, and the Reserves are chosen under this programme. The MAB marked a milestone in the way we conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable development. The decision to dedicate a day to Biosphere Reserves is intended to remind us of the value of these ecosystems for human survival and to encourage greater awareness of and commitment to their preservation.

Biosphere reserves are particularly vulnerable to climate change. Global warming, loss of biodiversity and altered ecosystems threaten their ability to provide ecosystem services. Moreover, climate change amplifies the pressure on natural resources, making the need for sustainable development models even more urgent, as well as on humans and every aspect of our lives, as we have seen recently. Investing in the protection of these areas means not only protecting the environment, but also contributing to the resilience of human communities against extreme weather events and natural disasters.

Communities living in biosphere reserves play a crucial role in ensuring the conservation of ecosystems. Their active involvement in sustainable practices and decision-making processes is crucial to ensure the success of conservation projects. Likewise, companies can improve their environmental sustainability. Eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture and responsible resource management are examples of activities that local communities and companies can promote to implement economic development without compromising biodiversity. Participatory management of nature and the resources it gives us, also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for nature itself.

In Europe there are more than 300 Biosphere Reserves officially recognised by Unesco. Spain is the country with the largest number, 55, including the entire island of Lanzarote, which is especially popular with tourists. In Italy, there are 20 , including the Parco del Delta del Po, which we have already mentioned here , and the Tuscan Archipelago. Germany has 18 reserves, including the Elbe River Reserve and the Bavarian Forest, characterised by river and forest ecosystems crucial for the conservation of European fauna. In France there are 17 reserves, such as the Camargue, known for its lagoon ecosystem, and the Mont Viso reserve on the Italian border. Also in England we find 7 Reserves ranging from North Devon to Wester Ross in Scotland. These Reserves have a high conservation value and highlight the strong European commitment to the protection and management of natural environments and all the species that inhabit them.

Environmental conservation is essential to protect biodiversity and ensure the functioning of ecosystems. Thanks to the latter, we can have access to a wide range of ecosystem services that are essential for human life, such as water purification, climate regulation, food production and as a reservoir of biodiversity. Biodiversity was discussed at the COP16 in recent days. Healthy ecosystems also contribute to disaster reduction, soil conservation and carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. Protecting biosphere reserves therefore means preserving these vital services for future generations.

Environmental conservation must be coordinated by governments and international organisations, but each of us can help protect biodiversity. People can reduce their environmental impact through sustainable daily choices , often through simple actions such as careful shopping or through recycling, reducing waste and using renewable resources. Participating in voluntary nature conservation activities, supporting conservation projects and spreading environmental awareness are also concrete actions that everyone can take to help preserve the biosphere's reserves.

Preserving nature and the environment is essential for both our survival and that of all other living species, starting with the endangered species. Healthy ecosystems guarantee clean air and water, food and natural resources that are essential for human well-being. Protecting biodiversity also means safeguarding our economic and social future, as a degraded environment leads to instability, poverty and conflict. Only through a collective commitment to conservation can we ensure a liveable planet for future generations.