BIOSPHERES OF THE WORLD
Biospheres form a unique network of special places for people and nature. Biospheres are chosen to be representative of their region and to be sites of excellence to explore and demonstrate approaches to conservation and sustainable development. The global network provides unique opportunities for exchanges of experience and collaborative research. There are only 482 designated Biospheres world wide, spread across 102 countries. These include some natural wonders such as Mount Kenya, Niagara Escarpment and Central Amazon.

Biosphere designation can be used to support a wide range of local initiatives. "It is not enough to allow local communities to participate in Biosphere reserve management; they must also benefit from it" - ICC 1995. Here are just a few examples of how other European countries have taken this forward.

Developing Their Nature Based Tourism
In Germany, they use their Biospheres to help promote the quality of the environment to tourists, bringing money into the rural economy.

In France, the Cévennes Biosphere brand adds value to local food products such as chestnuts and goat's cheese. Regional craft skills such as drystone walling and basket making that had started to die out have been reinvigorated. Three ecomuseums have been established and an annual nature festival is promoted.

Promoting Sustainable Development
In Switzerland, Entlebuch BR has established a sustainable development forum which promotes wood grown in the area as a construction material and energy source for the 21st Century.