What is a biosphere reserve?
The term is taken from the Greek “biosphere”, meaning “living space”. This refers to the totality of areas on Earth where life is possible. The “Biosphere Reserves” are specific sections os such a habitat that require special orptection from human activity.
These protected areas, designated worldwide, form the basis of a UNESCO network known as ‘MAN AND BIOSPHERE’ (MAB). The main aim of biosphere reserves is to demonstrate how human activities and economic practices can be carried out in harmony with nature.
The “Oberlausitzer Heide- und Teichlandschaft” UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Göbelner Heide & Großteich Sdier (Photos: D. Weis)
The “Oberlausitz Heath and Pond Landscape” Biosphere Reserve celebrated its thirtieth anniversary in 2024. As early as 1990, the central part of the natural area of the same name was placed under protection as a landscape conservation area of central importance due to its unique natural features. In 1994, it was provisionally designated as a biosphere reserve. This provided a fitting framework for this unique, centuries-old cultural landscape and ensured its conservation, maintenance and future development under expert supervision and guidance. In 1996, it was recognised as the 13th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Germany under the ‘Man and the Biosphere’ programme. The most important principle is to reconcile the conservation of natural diversity with economic activity.
