Biosphere Reserves (BR) The Man and Biosphere (MAB) program initiated in 1972 is a broad based ecological program aimed at improvement of the relationship between man and the environment. The approach emphasizes on research and training and seeks scientific information to find solution to problems in management and conservation. The concept of biosphere reserves were adopted under the Convention on biological diversity (CBD) process on 29th December 1993.
The CBD has two principal objectives, namely , “ Conservation and Sustainable use of Biological Diversity” and “Fair and Equitable sharing of benefits arsing from its utilization”. The biosphere reserves are special sites for both people and the nature . The reserves contain genetic element evolved over millions of years that hold the key to future adaptations and survival. These sites have global importance, having tremendous potential for future economic development. The biosphere reserves have been categorized into three main areas.
· Core Area(s): These sites are dedicated to conservation. The core zone is kept absolutely undisturbed. It secures legal protection, management and research activities that do not affect natural processes. It is kept free from all human pressures.
