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UNESCO x FOD Biosphere Reserve

What is a Biosphere Reserve?

Biosphere Reserves are an international designation allocated by UNESCO. These sites promote solutions reconciling the conservation of biodiversity with its sustainable use. They are learning areas for sustainable development under diverse ecological, social & economic contexts, impacting more than 250 million people.

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Forest Cabinet Report

 In general respondents felt that a Biosphere Reserve would be a better place to live, would enhance the relationship between people and nature, would increase the emphasis on sustainability and would encourage balanced development. It is noted that it is unusual for a proposal for change to be so positively seen by local residents.

- 87% of respondents (282 highly likely, 163 likely) were in favour of the Forest of Dean Becoming a Biosphere Reserve 

- 5% of respondents (11 highly unlikely, 17 unlikely) would not currently support designation  

- 8% of respondents were neutral on the matter 

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Forest Economic Report

The outcomes delivered by these benefits include increased GVA (Gross Value Added) in areas such as forestry and agriculture and carbon sequestration and storage. The initial assessment concludes that over a 30 year period there is a benefit to cost ratio of around 3:1 on cashable benefits to be gained by a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This is higher still when carbon sequestration is included. Members of the Office for National Statistics report indicates that for every £1 spent creating a Biosphere Reserve there would be a £3.89 return on investment. 

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Forest We Want Research Paper

The results from the Forest We Want (FWW) show significant levels of agreement on the various questions posed. Such perceived high levels of agreement pose their own dangers and underplay the amount of work that still needs to be done. The Forest We Want survey broadly achieved its aims and objectives of beginning the process of informing the District about the concept of Biosphere Reserves through the sharing of Arts Council funded artefacts. It stimulated ongoing discussion and galvanised a sense of place upon which the next stages can grow. 

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Support for a Forest of Dean Biosphere Designation

EcoversityUK stands with the Forest Economic Partnership

Find out how you can show your support for the Biosphere and many other great local initiatives by becoming a more active community stakeholder. 

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Biosphere 101

 It is up to local communities to decide if they want their area to become a biosphere and how they plan to support, manage and develop it in tune with their local environment and culture. 

Biospheres are renowned for their exceptional environments and a high diversity of life. 

Biospheres are areas where the ‘specialness’ of the area is considered to be the essential asset for local communities and businesses. To fulfill the criteria for a biosphere reserve, the area must have people living and working in the area. The concept of sustainable development depends on local support and involvement. The people living and working in the area are essential to biosphere reserves.

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3 Pillars to a Biosphere

Core Areas

Transition Areas

Buffer Zones

 It comprises a strictly protected zone that contributes to the conservation of landscapes, ecosystems, species and genetic variation.

Buffer Zones

Transition Areas

Buffer Zones

 It surrounds or adjoins the core area(s), and is used for activities compatible with sound ecological practices that can reinforce scientific research, monitoring, training and education.

Transition Areas

Transition Areas

Transition Areas

 The transition area is where communities foster socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable economic and human activities.

Media funded by the Arts Council of England

 The first in a series of shorts and films exploring the potential benefit of becoming a Biosphere Reserve 

Arts practitioners Steve Geliot and Elle Ireland, engage the Forest of Dean community in conversations about the idea of becoming a Biosphere 

Creative Arts presents: Music of the Spheres - Looking at the possibility of the Forest of Dean becoming a Biosphere Reserve  

Clean flowing water - a necessity to a thriving biosphere community

A locally renewable working forest, suitable of Biosphere status

A burning issue - cooling the atmosphere through Biosphere Reserves 

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