Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB)
UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme reinforces the bond between people and nature by empowering communities in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves with the tools to protect their environment.
Across 797 Biosphere Reserves in 145 countries, UNESCO fosters harmony between people and nature through targeted projects that advance sustainable development, promote dialogue and knowledge sharing, respect cultural values, reduce poverty, and strengthen community resilience.
- Discover UNESCO Biosphere Reserves
Explore UNESCO Biosphere Reserves where nature drives sustainable development and supports local communities.
© Shutterstock - What are UNESCO Biosphere Reserves?
Promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in 797 Biosphere Reserves in 145 countries
© Shutterstock.com - World Network of Biosphere Reserves
Dynamic and interactive community of sites of excellence managed by the UNESCO MAB Programme
© Bantimurung Bulusaraung - Ma'Rupanne Biosphere Reserve - Designation and review process
Find out how Biosphere Reserves are nominated and the designation process
UNESCO
Key projects
Empower women through beekeeping initiatives in UNESCO-designated biosphere reserves
Restore mangroves as a nature-based solution in 7 biosphere reserves in Latin America and the Caribbean
Our impact in communities
In numbers
across 145 countries
90% of sites overlap with Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs)