Date : 04/11/2023

Relevance –GS Paper 3 - Environment- Biodiversity conservation

Keywords –World Biosphere Reserve Day, UNESCO, Wildlife (Protection) Act, of 1972, Man and the Biosphere (MAB) program, UNDP

Context

As we celebrate World Biosphere Reserve Day on November 3, it is imperative to reflect on the progress made in conserving and sustainably using these vital ecosystems. Biosphere reserves, often described as "pockets of hope," play a crucial role in the conservation of biodiversity, sustainable development, and the fight against climate change.

Biosphere Reserve

These reserves are designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and encompass a unique blend of natural beauty and human interaction. They offer solutions to some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

Designation Criteria for Biosphere Reserves:

• Inclusion of an ecologically valuable core area that is effectively protected and maintains minimal disturbance, preserving its nature conservation significance.
• The core area must be representative of a specific bio-geographical unit and possess sufficient size to support sustainable populations across all trophic levels within the ecosystem
• The management authority must actively engage and collaborate with local communities, encouraging the integration of diverse knowledge and experiences. This approach is vital for linking biodiversity conservation with socio-economic development and resolving potential conflicts.
• Identification of areas with the potential to preserve traditional tribal or rural ways of life, promoting harmonious environmental use and coexistence.

Understanding Biosphere Reserves

A biosphere reserve is a unique concept that harmonizes conservation, sustainable development, and research. These reserves are organized into three distinct zones:

• Core Zone: The heart of each biosphere reserve, the core zone, is strictly protected and serves as a habitat for flora and fauna. It safeguards water, soil, air, and the entire ecosystem as a whole. A core zone is a protected region, like a National Park or Sanctuary/protected/regulated mostly under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, of 1972. It is kept free from human interference.
• Buffer Zone: Surrounding the core zone, the buffer zone allows people to live and work in harmony with nature. It also acts as a laboratory for scientists to study the environment and provides opportunities for training and education.
• Transition Zone: The outermost zone, the transition zone, is where communities practice socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable human activities.

There are currently 748 biosphere reserves across 134 countries, with 22 transboundary sites that promote cooperation between neighboring nations. These reserves have a direct impact on the lives of more than 250 million people worldwide, with 12 sites located in India alone.

The Importance of Biosphere Reserves

• Biosphere reserves are indispensable for the future of our planet. They showcase nature's resilience in the face of human activity and provide a haven for a wide variety of ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to alpine deserts. These ecosystems host countless unique and endangered plant and animal species.
• In addition to protecting biodiversity and ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources, biosphere reserves play a vital role in combating climate change. They are home to many of the world's carbon sinks, including forests and oceans, which absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Carbon sinks are critical for implementing adaptation strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Local Initiatives and Success Stories

At the local level, there have been remarkable initiatives within biosphere reserves to promote conservation and sustainable practices. For instance:

• Sundarban Biosphere Reserve, India: Local communities are collaborating to manage mangrove forests and protect the region's biodiversity.
• Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, India: Local communities, including women, have formed self-help groups to contribute to conservation efforts, while youth are engaging in eco-tourism.
• Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust: Recognized with the UNESCO Michel Batisse Award for Biosphere Reserve Management 2023, this organization has introduced the concept of "plastic checkpoints." Community members check vehicles and tourists for plastic waste, which is collected, recycled, and used for road construction.

Challenges Facing Biosphere Reserves

Despite their vital role, biosphere reserves face several threats, including deforestation, invasive species, and land use changes such as mining. Urbanization and the constant growth of the world population lead to increased human exploitation of these reserves, jeopardizing their integrity.

International Collaboration

The global community recognizes the significance of biosphere reserves in the context of climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development. International organizations such as UNESCO, the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Environment Programme, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature support these reserves and facilitate cooperation between countries.

• The Role of UNESCO: UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) program serves as a linchpin in enhancing the human-environment relationship. It combines natural and social sciences to improve livelihoods, safeguard ecosystems, and promote sustainable economic development. UNESCO plays a pivotal role in designating and supporting biosphere reserves globally.
• The 10th South and Central Asian Biosphere Reserve Network Meeting(SACAM): In line with the commitment to biosphere reserve conservation, UNESCO partnered with the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change and the National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management to host the 10th South and Central Asian Biosphere Reserve Network Meeting (SACAM) in Chennai, India, from November 1 to 3. The theme of the meeting was "Ridge to Reef," emphasizing the importance of sustainable environmental practices in the South and Central Asia Region.

Conclusion

As we mark the second anniversary of World Biosphere Reserve Day on November 3, it is a moment to acknowledge the strides made in conserving and sustainably utilizing these critical ecosystems. Biosphere reserves offer hope for the future by striking a balance between conservation and development. These reserves are not only jewels of biodiversity but also key players in mitigating climate change. In an era characterized by environmental challenges and rapid urbanization, biosphere reserves serve as beacons of inspiration for harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. They demonstrate that with concerted efforts, we can protect our planet's natural wonders and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. World Biosphere Reserve Day is an opportunity to celebrate these achievements, reflect on the challenges ahead, and renew our commitment to safeguarding the Earth's invaluable biosphere reserves.

Source – The Hindu