Press Invitation - UNESCO to designate new Biosphere Reserves in September 2025

PRESS INVITATION   UNESCO to designate new Biosphere Reserves in September 2025   UNESCO invites you to attend the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves in Hangzhou, China — a once-a-decade gathering where global experts, policymakers, indigenous leaders, and youth will shape the 10‑year strategy for more than 750 UNESCO Biosphere Reserves across nearly 140 countries, covering 6% of the Earth's land surface — an area the size of Brazil. These sites are living laboratories where biodiversity is protected, sustainable development thrives, and indigenous knowledge is preserved. Immediately after the Congress, the International Coordinating Council of UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Programme will designate new sites to join this global network, opening a new chapter for communities and ecosystems worldwide.   What? 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves and Designation of New Biosphere Reserves When? 22-28 September 2025 Where? Hangzhou, China Press Accreditation: Please register here before 13 August The link to the webcast will be available on the UNESCO website   Biosphere reserves are an essential component of UNESCO's mandate as the United Nations' organization for science. Each biosphere reserve promotes innovative local sustainable development solutions, protects biodiversity, and addresses climate disruption. They also support local and Indigenous communities through practices such as agro-ecology, water management, and the generation of green income.   Held every 10 years, the World Congress of Biosphere Reserves is the largest global meeting of its kind. This year's gathering will deliver a blueprint for how biosphere reserves will contribute to tackling biodiversity loss, climate disruption, and sustainable development challenges over the coming decade. Participants will explore how biosphere reserves can support the Kunming‑Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, while strengthening the role of Indigenous Peoples, local communities, and youth in environmental governance.   Following the Congress, the International Coordinating Council of UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Programme will examine proposals and designate new biosphere reserves. Successful nominations will be added to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, joining a global family of more than 750 sites in nearly 140 countries working together to address the world's most pressing environmental challenges.   Read more: UNESCO Biosphere Reserves 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves   Press contact François WIBAUX, f.wibaux@unesco.org, +33 (0) 1 45 68 07 46   UNESCO Newsroom All our press releases   Social media

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