FS 3.208: UNESCO World Network of Mountain Biosphere Reserves

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves (BRs) play a critical role in addressing the triple planetary crisis, meaning climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, by serving as dynamic learning environments for sustainable development. BRs engage local communities and diverse stakeholders in planning and management processes that interdisciplinary approaches to better understand and manage the intricate interplay between social and ecological systems. Globally, UNESCO has designated 759 Biosphere Reserves, and around 60% of them are located in mountainous regions. Mountain regions often face accelerated climate change, habitat fragmentation, and pollution threats, yet they are also reservoirs of rich biological and cultural diversity, and providers of several ecosystem services. The World Network of Mountain Biosphere Reserves (WNMBR) unites these unique ecosystems and their communities, fostering international research and collaborative solutions to common challenges. This session aims to catalyse dialogue, showcase innovative approaches, and explore pathways to strengthen the role of mountain BRs as model areas for sustainable development. It emphasizes the importance of fostering knowledge exchange, promoting solutions grounded in both science and indigenous and local knowledge, and advancing policy interventions to address the interconnected challenges of the triple planetary crisis.