International Day for Biosphere Reserves: Learning and Connecting
Every year on 3 November, people around the world celebrate the International Day for Biosphere Reserves. With 797 biosphere reserves across 145 countries, these special places offer inspiring examples of how people and nature can coexist, combining biodiversity conservation with sustainable development.
To mark this occasion, the Biosphere Reserves Institute (BRI) and it’s polish-german project MoPA brought together students, colleagues, and international partners for a day of learning, exchange, and celebration in the Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve (SC BR).
Prof. Mann, BRI Academic Director, welcomed the group and highlighted the importance of celebrating biosphere reserves and the communities working towards a more sustainable future. Guided by Prof. Aschenbrand (BRI) and Dr. Benjamin Herold (SC BR Officer for research and monitoring), participants explored the Grumsin Beech Forest, part of the UNESCO World Heritage network. The excursion offered insights into forest conservation and species monitoring, peatlands and climate change, visitor management, organic farming, and cooperation with local stakeholders. The day also included interactive activities, a shared lunch, and a visit to the Altkünkendorf Information Centre of the Grumsin UNESCO world heritage site.
Participants included students from the international Master's programme Biosphere Reserves Management, BRI members, and a group of polish partners invited through the MOPA project: representatives of different polish protected areas of the Pomarania Euroregion, researchers and students from Szczecin University and the Technical University of Western Pomerania.
In the group photo, participants hold objects symbolizing what connects them personally with biosphere reserves. These connections reflect the diversity of perspectives and experiences that bring this community together.
And what about you: what connects you with biosphere reserves?
Happy International Day for Biosphere Reserves to the entire community of regional sustainability leaders and changemakers!
