BIOSPHERE RESERVE (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: On November 3, World Biosphere Reserve Day underscores the worldwide significance of UNESCO-designated reserves in the preservation of biodiversity and the alleviation of climate change.

Biosphere Reserve

• About: BR is an international designation by UNESCO for representative parts of natural and cultural landscapes extending over a large area of terrestrial or coastal/marine ecosystems or a combination thereof.
• In every biosphere reserve, there exists a core zone that is strictly protected, serving to conserve the flora, fauna, and the entire ecosystem, encompassing water, soil, air, and biota.
• Core Areas: It is the most protected area of a biosphere reserve. It may contain endemic plants and animals.
• Buffer Zone: The buffer zone surrounds the core zone, and its activities are managed in this area in ways that help in the protection of the core zone in its natural condition.
• Transition Zone: It is the outermost part of the biosphere reserve. It is the zone of cooperation where human ventures and conservation are done in harmony.
• World Biosphere Reserve Day: Celebrated on November 3 each year.
• Aim: To raise awareness of the importance of biosphere reserves and to promote their conservation and sustainable use