All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only

World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) – Environment Notes

The World Network of Biosphere Reserves promotes North-South and South-South collaboration and is a unique tool for international cooperation through knowledge sharing, experience exchange, capacity building, and the promotion of best practices. In this article, we will discuss the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) which will be helpful for UPSC exam preparation.

Definition

What is WNBR?

  • The MAB Programme's World Network of Biosphere Reserves is a dynamic and interactive network of world-class sites.
  • Through participatory dialogue, knowledge sharing, poverty reduction and human well-being improvements, respect for cultural values, and society's ability to cope with change, it promotes the harmonious integration of people and nature for sustainable development.
  • It contributes to the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • This network is one of the most important international tools for developing and implementing sustainable development approaches in a variety of contexts.
  • The World Network of Biosphere Reserves now has 738 sites in 134 countries worldwide, including 22 transboundary sites.
  • They are distributed in the following manner:
    • 90 sites in 33 African countries
    • 36 sites in 14 Arab countries
    • 172 sites in 24 Asian and Pacific countries
    • 308 sites in 41 European and North American countries
    • 132 sites in 22 Latin American and Caribbean countries
  • India has 12 biosphere reserves that have been recognised internationally under the Man and Biosphere Reserve programme.
    • Nanda Devi, Uttarakhand
    • Nokrek, Meghalaya
    • Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
    • Achanakmar-Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh-Chhattisgarh
    • Similipal, Odisha
    • Sundarbans, West Bengal
    • Agasthyamala, Karnataka-Tamil Nadu-Kerala
    • Nilgiri, Tamil Nadu-Kerala
    • Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu
    • Great Nicobar, Andaman & Nicobar Island
    • Panna Biosphere Reserve, Madhya Pradesh

World Network of Biosphere Reserves

World Network of Biosphere Reserves

Working of WNBR

Working of WNBR

  • To facilitate cooperation, BRs are admitted into the international network by the International Coordinating Council (ICC) of UNESCO's Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme at the request of the participating country, subject to the fulfillment of prescribed criteria.
  • The BRs are subject to the sole sovereignty of the country/state in which they are located, and participation in the World Network is entirely voluntary.
  • After consulting with the relevant government, delisting from the international network is done as an exception due to a violation of the obligation for conservation and sustainable development of Biosphere Reserves.
Regional and Thematic Network of WNBR

Regional and Thematic Network of WNBR

  • Building international, regional, sub-regional, and ecosystem-specific cooperation is a key feature of the MAB program, which is aided by regional and thematic biosphere reserve networks.
  • Regional and sub-regional networks play an important role in the regional exchange of information and experience.
Region Description
Africa
  • The African Biosphere Reserves Network (AfriMAB) was established in 1996 and includes 33 African countries.
  • Through transborder projects based primarily in biosphere reserves, the network aims to promote regional cooperation in the fields of biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable development.
Arab States
  • The ArabMAB Network was established in 1997 and currently represents 18 Arab countries.
  • ArabMAB's overarching goal is to promote collaboration among Arab National MAB Committees in order to strengthen the MAB programme in the Arab Region, through the establishment of biosphere reserves and the implementation of joint research and public awareness projects.
Asia and the Pacific The Asia-Pacific region has four regional networks:
  1. In 1994, the East Asian Biosphere Reserve Network was established.
  • China, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Japan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, the Republic of Korea, and the Russian Federation comprise it today.
  1. The Pacific Man and the Biosphere Network (PacMAB) was established in 2006, and its members include the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, and Tonga.
  • The network facilitates exchange and cooperation among new and emerging Biosphere Reserves as well as national MAB focal points in the Pacific.
  1. Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka comprise the South and Central Asia MAB Network (SACAM), which was established in 2002.
  2. In 1998, the Southeast Asian Biosphere Reserve Network (SeaBRnet) was established.
  • Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor Leste are now members.
Europe and North America
  • EuroMAB includes all of Europe's and North America's biosphere reserves.
  • It was founded in 1987 and now has 53 countries as part of its MAB Regional Network.
Latin America, Caribbean, Portugal and Spain
  • In 1992, the Ibero-American MAB Network (IberoMAB) was established.
  • It consists of 22 Latin American and Caribbean countries, as well as Portugal and Spain.
  • The Ibero-American MAB Network aims to strengthen the MAB Programme by consolidating their MAB National Committees and cooperative links, and by promoting the establishment of new biosphere reserves.
Ecosystem Specific Networks of WNBR

Ecosystem-Specific Networks of WNBR

  • Ecosystem and theme-specific networks offer useful insights into sustainable development models as well as climate change mitigation and adaptation options.
  • Networks and research, capacity building, and educational collaborations are among them.
Ecosystem Description
Drylands
  • Drylands cover more than 40% of the total land surface of the Earth and are home to more than 2 billion people.
  • Their biodiversity contributes significantly to the global fight against climate change, poverty, and desertification.
  • Many dryland species and habitats do not exist in more humid ecosystems.
  • Their biodiversity is also important for sustainable development and the livelihoods of their residents, many of whom are impoverished.
  • Drylands also contribute a number of high-value products with global economic significance, including at least 30% of the world's cultivated plants and many livestock breeds.
  • As a result, they form an important genetic reservoir that is becoming increasingly important for climate change adaptation.
  • Dryland ecosystems are now included in 70 biosphere reserves (or 9% of the WNBR).
Mangroves
  • Mangroves are a rare but spectacular ecosystem that exists on the land-sea boundary.
  • They are made up of trees or large shrubs, such as ferns and palms, that grow in or near the intertidal zone.
  • Mangroves have adapted to survive and thrive in saline coastal sediment habitats.
  • They cover only 152,000 square kilometres worldwide, accounting for less than 1% of all tropic forests, making them a rare habitat type.
  • The preservation of mangrove areas is critical.
  • According to the World Atlas of Mangroves, one-fifth of the world's mangrove ecosystems have been lost since 1980.
  • Mangroves are ecosystem engineers, having a direct impact on and shaping their surroundings.
  • They can serve as rich biomass stores and are highly productive, supporting complex communities and exporting nutrients to neighbouring ecosystems.
  • Mangrove ecosystems are now found in 91 of the 738 biosphere reserves that comprise the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
Marine, Coastal & Island Areas
  • The natural, cultural, socioeconomic, and political characteristics of island and coastal area biosphere reserves around the world vary.
  • They do, however, share common and specific issues that can be addressed in a similar manner.
  • These areas, particularly small islands in the Caribbean and the Asia-Pacific region, are extremely vulnerable to climate change, the consequences of which include poverty, natural disasters, depopulation, loss of traditional culture, and the negative impact of invasive species.
  • These disrupt the balance of marine and terrestrial island ecosystems, resulting in irreversible biodiversity loss.
  • The World Network of Island and Coastal Biosphere Reserves, founded in 2012, aims to research, implement, and disseminate island and coastal strategies to preserve biodiversity and heritage, promote sustainable development, and adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change.
Mountains
  • Mountain regions cover roughly one-quarter of the Earth's land surface and are home to roughly 25% of the world's population.
  • Mountains are essential to life. They provide a plethora of ecosystem functions and services such as freshwater, biodiversity, forest products, minerals, habitat for threatened species, exceptional landscapes, and cultures.
  • Mountains provide water to more than half of humanity for drinking, irrigation, industry, food, and energy production.
  • They help to protect against natural hazards and the effects of extreme events by regulating climate, air quality, and water flow.
  • Mountain regions are threatened by global and climate change because of the loss of rare and endangered species, altered water balances (including glacial melt), and changing land use, which affects socioeconomic conditions and people's livelihoods.
Savannahs
  • The World Network of Biosphere Reserves was expanded to West Africa in 1977 with the establishment of the Ta National Park in Côte d'Ivoire.
  • While the concept of biosphere reserves emphasises the inclusion of local communities in the management and evolution of biodiversity, it also provides for the access rules required for the protection of ecosystems, which can become sources of conflict between villagers and reserve managers in some cases.
  • The regional UNESCO-MAB-UNEP-GEF programme, which includes six biosphere reserves in West Africa, aims to improve understanding of "societies-savannahs" interactions in order to facilitate dialogue between different stakeholders involved in protected areas.
  • Land occupation, plant species collection, and natural resource exploitation by local communities all represent different types of pressure on biodiversity.
  • This programme aims to reduce anthropogenic pressures through alternative economic activities for communities living near reserves, utilising methods proposed by social sciences.
Tropical Forests
  • The majority of the world's species live in forests, particularly tropical forests.
  • Although some of these creatures, such as insects, fungi, and lower life forms, are not visible to everyone, they play an important role.
  • They recycle nutrients and allow our ecosystems to renew themselves.
  • It is estimated that by the year 2100, 73 percent of tropical forests will have been destroyed.
  • The rapid extinction of tropical forests and biodiversity involves a wide range of changes that go far beyond the well-known critical interactions between forest cover and climate.
  • The MAB Program promotes economically viable and environmentally sound forest management. The activities include research, conservation, and education.
  • Rainforest ecosystems are now found in around 126 biosphere reserves that comprise the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
Wetlands
  • Wetlands are ecosystems that are permanently or seasonally saturated with water.
  • They store water and ensure its quality, making them drought-resistant.
  • They are critical to sustainable development because they provide all of our fresh water.
  • Wetlands play an important role in protecting land from flooding and storm damage.
  • They provide food as well as a variety of habitats that support genetic, species, and ecosystem biodiversity.
  • Wetlands play an important role in many species' life cycles and annual migration patterns.
  • Wetlands are being degraded and lost as a result of pollution, overexploitation, climate change, and human population growth.
  • The RAMSAR Convention, an international treaty, was adopted in 1971 in response to these challenges.
  • The Convention was created to address global concerns about wetland loss and degradation.
Conclusion

Conclusion

Biosphere Reserves are locations where innovative ideas for long-term development are tested and implemented. The World Network of Biosphere Reserves encompasses all major natural and semi-natural ecosystems.

FAQs

FAQs

Question: What is the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR)?

Answer: The World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) is a global network established by the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme to promote sustainable development through the conservation of biodiversity. It is a collaborative effort involving countries worldwide, aimed at balancing human needs with the preservation of the environment. The WNBR is composed of designated areas known as biosphere reserves, which are areas where both biodiversity conservation and sustainable human development are promoted. As of now, there are over 700 biosphere reserves in more than 120 countries across the globe.

Question: How does the WNBR contribute to biodiversity conservation?

Answer: The WNBR plays a critical role in biodiversity conservation by designating and managing areas that protect ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity. Biosphere reserves provide safe havens for endangered species and habitats, helping to safeguard the Earth’s biodiversity. These reserves are managed with the participation of local communities, ensuring that both conservation and sustainable livelihoods are balanced. By conducting research, monitoring environmental changes, and promoting eco-friendly practices, the WNBR contributes significantly to global conservation goals, supporting the achievement of targets like those outlined in the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

Question: How are Biosphere Reserves designated under WNBR?

Answer: Biosphere reserves under the WNBR are designated based on scientific criteria and the capacity of an area to conserve biodiversity while supporting sustainable human activities. Each biosphere reserve must meet specific criteria set by UNESCO, including the representation of ecosystems, the integration of human activities with conservation, and a focus on research and education. The designation process involves collaboration between governments, local communities, and international organizations, ensuring that the site is well-managed and contributes to global conservation and sustainable development objectives.

Question: What are the three zones of a Biosphere Reserve?

Answer: Biosphere Reserves under the WNBR are typically organized into three distinct zones: the core zone, the buffer zone, and the transition zone. The core zone is a strictly protected area where no human activity is allowed, ensuring the preservation of the ecosystem and species. The buffer zone surrounds the core area and is designated for limited human activity that is compatible with conservation. The transition zone, which is the outermost area, includes human settlements and is where sustainable economic and social development activities are encouraged while ensuring minimal impact on the environment.

Question: What role do local communities play in the management of Biosphere Reserves?

Answer: Local communities play a vital role in the management of Biosphere Reserves. Their involvement is crucial in ensuring that conservation efforts align with local livelihoods and sustainable practices. Community participation includes engaging in sustainable agricultural practices, ecotourism, and natural resource management. Biosphere Reserves often incorporate local knowledge into conservation strategies, empowering communities to become active stakeholders in biodiversity conservation. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, making conservation efforts more effective and long-lasting.

MCQs

1. What is the main objective of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR)?

A) To promote global industrial development
B) To conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable development
C) To establish military zones for conservation
D) To increase urban development across nations

Answer: (B) See the Explanation

Explanation: The main objective of the WNBR is to conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable development. The network of biosphere reserves is designed to balance human development with environmental conservation, ensuring that biodiversity is protected while supporting the livelihoods of local communities.

2. How are Biosphere Reserves managed under the WNBR?

A) Managed by private corporations
B) Managed by international governments only
C) Managed through a collaborative approach involving local communities, governments, and organizations
D) Managed by multinational NGOs

Answer: (C) See the Explanation

Explanation: Biosphere Reserves are managed through a collaborative approach involving local communities, governments, and various organizations. This ensures that both conservation and development goals are met, with local communities actively participating in decision-making processes.

3. Which of the following is not a zone within a Biosphere Reserve?

A) Core Zone
B) Buffer Zone
C) Industrial Zone
D) Transition Zone

Answer: (C) See the Explanation

Explanation: The three main zones in a Biosphere Reserve are the Core Zone, the Buffer Zone, and the Transition Zone. The Industrial Zone is not part of the biosphere reserve framework, as the goal is to balance conservation with sustainable development.

4. What is the primary function of the core zone in a Biosphere Reserve?

A) To encourage ecotourism
B) To allow minimal human activity for conservation
C) To promote industrial activities
D) To support sustainable agriculture

Answer: (B) See the Explanation

Explanation: The primary function of the core zone in a Biosphere Reserve is to preserve biodiversity and ecosystems by allowing minimal human activity. This area is strictly protected to maintain its natural state for research, monitoring, and conservation purposes.

5. Which organization oversees the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR)?

A) World Health Organization (WHO)
B) United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
C) UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme
D) International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

Answer: (C) See the Explanation

Explanation: The World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) is overseen by the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. This program aims to foster sustainable development and biodiversity conservation across the globe.

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1: Discuss the significance of Biosphere Reserves in preserving biodiversity. How do they contribute to sustainable development?

Answer: Biosphere Reserves play a critical role in the conservation of biodiversity by providing protected areas where ecosystems, wildlife, and plant species can thrive. These reserves create safe spaces for endangered species, ensuring their survival while maintaining the ecological balance of the region. By incorporating both conservation and development, Biosphere Reserves offer a model for sustainable development. The three-zone structure, consisting of the core, buffer, and transition zones, allows for a balance between ecological protection and human activities, such as agriculture, tourism, and resource management. The active involvement of local communities in these reserves ensures that conservation efforts are aligned with economic development, creating a model for sustainable living.

Q2: Evaluate the role of local communities in the management of Biosphere Reserves. How does their involvement enhance conservation efforts?

Answer: Local communities play a pivotal role in the management of Biosphere Reserves by contributing traditional knowledge, ensuring sustainable resource use, and participating in decision-making processes. Their involvement enhances conservation efforts by fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for the environment. Communities are integral to the implementation of sustainable practices in agriculture, forestry, and tourism. Additionally, by engaging in ecotourism and other sustainable economic activities, communities directly benefit from the preservation of biodiversity. Their participation ensures that conservation strategies are culturally appropriate, economically viable, and locally accepted, making the efforts more sustainable in the long term.

Q3: Analyze the challenges faced in the implementation of Biosphere Reserves. What strategies can be adopted to overcome these challenges?

Answer: Implementing Biosphere Reserves presents several challenges, including conflicting land use priorities, lack of resources, and resistance from local communities who may feel excluded from decision-making processes. Balancing conservation with the livelihoods of local populations is often a complex issue. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to adopt a participatory approach, where local communities are actively involved in planning and management. Education and awareness programs can help communities understand the long-term benefits of conservation. Furthermore, adequate funding and support from national governments and international organizations can provide the necessary resources for effective management. Developing sustainable income-generating activities, such as ecotourism, can help align conservation goals with economic development.

Previous Year Questions on Biosphere Reserves

1. UPSC CSE Prelims 2020:

Question: What is the main purpose of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme?

A) To conserve cultural heritage
B) To promote peace among nations
C) To conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable development
D) To develop new scientific technologies

Answer: (C)

Explanation: The main purpose of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme is to conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable development. The program focuses on creating Biosphere Reserves that integrate conservation with sustainable human development.

2. UPSC CSE Mains 2018 (GS Paper 3):

Question: "Discuss the importance of Biosphere Reserves in the context of India's biodiversity conservation efforts. What role do these reserves play in achieving the SDGs?"

Answer: Biosphere Reserves are crucial in India's biodiversity conservation efforts. They play an important role in preserving endangered species, protecting ecosystems, and maintaining the balance of nature. These reserves also serve as research sites for scientists to study environmental changes and sustainable practices. Through their focus on both conservation and sustainable development, Biosphere Reserves directly contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to life on land (SDG 15), climate action (SDG 13), and sustainable communities (SDG 11). India's Biosphere Reserves are integral to the country’s overall conservation strategy, combining scientific research, conservation, and community engagement to foster a sustainable future.

*The article might have information for the previous academic years, please refer the official website of the exam.
How likely are you to recommend Prepp.in to a friend or a colleague?
Not so likely
Highly likely

Comments

No comments to show
UPSC CSE (IAS) 2027 Prelims Mock Test Series
Live Quizzes
Free
• Live
UPSC IAS : Culture of India: Indian Literature
12 Minutes
10 Questions
20 Marks
English, Hindi
HARD
Test will end in 06:17:02
View More
Quizzes
Free
24 July 2026 Daily CA Quiz for UPSC & State PSCs
8 Minutes
5 Questions
10 Marks
English, Hindi, Telugu +7 More
MEDIUM
Attempted by 440 aspirants in 12 hours
Free
23 July 2026 Daily CA Quiz for UPSC & State PSCs
8 Minutes
5 Questions
10 Marks
English, Hindi, Telugu +7 More
MEDIUM
Attempted by 431 aspirants in 12 hours
View More
Live Tests
Free
• Live
UPSC IAS : GS - Indian Economy - Subject Knowledge Test
35 Minutes
30 Questions
60 Marks
English, Hindi
Test will end in 14:17:02
plus
• Live
Live Test : UPSC CSE Prelims CSAT (Paper-II) (July 22 - 25)
120 Minutes
80 Questions
200 Marks
English, Hindi
MEDIUM
Test will end in 15:17:02
View More
Full Tests
Free
Full Test - 01: UPSC CSE Prelims CSAT (Paper-II)
120 Minutes
80 Questions
200 Marks
English, Hindi
MEDIUM
Attempted by 14 aspirants in 12 hours
Free
Full Test - 01: UPSC CSE Prelims GS 2027
120 Minutes
100 Questions
200 Marks
1,009 Attempted
English, Hindi
MEDIUM
Attempted by 12 aspirants in 12 hours
Previous Year Papers
plus
UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 GS Paper 1 Question Paper (24-May-2026)
120 Minutes
100 Questions
200 Marks
12,999 Attempted
English, Hindi
MEDIUM
Attempted by 109 aspirants in 12 hours
plus
UPSC CSE Prelims 2026 CSAT Paper 2 Question Paper (24-May-2026)
120 Minutes
80 Questions
200 Marks
12,990 Attempted
English, Hindi
MEDIUM
Attempted by 109 aspirants in 12 hours
View More