Japanese Biosphere Reserves

In support of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve's philosophy of focusing on the coexistence of nature and human society as well as the protection and preservation of ecosystems, we joined forces with the Japanese Biosphere Reserves Network in 2017.

Cooperation Agreement Items

  1. 1. Biodiversity preservation and utilization of Biosphere Reserves
  2. 2. Implementation of environmental education in Biosphere Reserves
  3. 3. Creation and sharing of new values of Biosphere Reserves
  4. 4. Collaboration for building sustainable communities in Satoyama and Satoumi
zoning in three area

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in Japan

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves

Biosphere Reserves※1is a project launched by UNESCO in 1976. This project is administered as part of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB)※2 plan implemented by UNESCO’s Natural Sciences Sector.
World natural heritage sites are intended to protect and conserve natural areas with considerable universal value, but Biosphere Reserves are intended to achieve harmony between ecosystem conservation and sustainable reuse, meaning focus is placed not only on protection and conservation, but also on a balanced relationship between people and nature.
Today, there are 669 registered Biosphere Reserves in 120 countries (as of June 2017), and 9 of these are located in Japan.

※1
In January 2010, the Japanese National Commission for UNESCO officially decided to change the name of Biosphere Reserves in Japan to UNESCO Eco Parks for ease of understanding.

※2
The MAB plan is an intergovernmental plan administered by UNESCO for scientific research on the sustainable use and protection of nature and natural resources in order to protect biodiversity.
http://www.mext.go.jp/unesco/005/1341691.htm