Biosphere reserves: Attributes for success.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Conservation Biology
• Ecosystem Management

Background:

• Biosphere reserves aim to balance biodiversity conservation with sustainable development.
• The Seville Strategy (1995) was developed to improve the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Program reserve network.
• An evaluation of management effectiveness was mandated by the Seville Strategy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of biosphere reserve management.
• To identify factors contributing to the success or failure of biosphere reserves.
• To gather expert opinion on best practices for biosphere reserve operation.

Main Methods:

• A Delphi Process was employed to gather expert opinions.
• Ninety biosphere reserves (60 successful, 30 less successful) across 42 countries were analyzed.
• Factors influencing reserve success and failure were investigated.

Main Results:

• Post-Seville biosphere reserves are generally more successful than pre-Seville reserves.
• Less successful reserves often lack adherence to biosphere reserve characteristics, functioning primarily as national parks.
• Key influential factors include stakeholder participation, governance, finance, management, and communication.

Conclusions:

• Effective biosphere reserve management necessitates a clear understanding and application of the concept, including landscape zoning.
• Successful reserves require inclusive governance, strong collaboration, adequate resources, and stable management.
• Commitment from governance authorities is crucial for achieving biosphere reserve ideals.