DOE Set to Join China’s Ambitious Longjiang Initiative: A New Era of Collaboration
The Department of Environment (DOE) in Iran has expressed its readiness to engage in the Longjiang initiative introduced by China. This initiative is centered on forming strategic partnerships that emphasize biodiversity conservation, ecological product development, and environmental education. As stated by Hamid Zohrabi, a DOE official, the initiative aims to leverage the unique capabilities of biosphere reserves while transforming ecological values into a strategy that aligns biodiversity conservation with sustainable economic development.
With countries worldwide accelerating their green transitions, biosphere reserves are increasingly recognized as exemplary models for nature-based solutions, inclusive livelihoods, and sustainable markets.
During the Fifth World Congress of Biosphere Reserves (WCBR) held in Hangzhou, China from September 22 to 26, a significant side event was organized by the UNESCO East Asia Regional Office in collaboration with the Heilongjiang Provincial Forestry and Grassland Bureau. This event took place on September 22 and was pivotal in launching the Longjiang initiative, which aims to enhance cooperation in several essential areas:
- Strengthening ecosystem protection and restoration
- Deepening scientific monitoring and research
- Building an ecological brand system
- Expanding market channels and value chains
- Promoting green technology and financial innovation
- Strengthening international cooperation and exchanges
The initiative seeks to convert intangible ecological values into tangible forces that support high-quality development. It also aims to contribute positively towards building a shared future for humanity and nature, while working towards achieving global sustainable development goals.
An Iranian delegation led by Shina Ansari, head of the DOE, was present at the fifth WCBR. The congress is held every decade and serves as a platform for the World Network of Biosphere Reserves to identify key priorities, foster collaboration, and outline a Global Action Plan for future endeavors.
In her address at the congress, Ansari reiterated Iran’s willingness to enhance cooperation with other nations, in alignment with the Hangzhou Action Plan, promoting twinning initiatives between biosphere reserve sites globally. She stated, “We are ready to develop a twinning mechanism between biosphere reserves in Iran and other countries worldwide to further promote collaboration on research projects, sharing expertise, and knowledge, as well as boosting scientific visits.”
Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of ecosystem-based and community-centered approaches in managing biosphere reserves, indicating that these areas should extend their impact beyond their borders and inspire adjacent regions. However, she also expressed concerns regarding the challenges faced by biosphere reserves in Iran, saying, “Unfortunately, biosphere reserves in Iran are adversely affected by heat waves, water scarcity, and climate change.”
To enhance their resilience, Ansari called for solidarity, experience exchange, and support from the World Networks of Biosphere Reserves. “We believe that the UNESCO member states have the needed capacity to counter unilateralism and expand multilateralism to strengthen World Networks of Biosphere Reserves,” she asserted.
Preserving the World Network of Biosphere Reserves is a shared responsibility, according to Ansari. She noted that these reserves are vital sanctuaries for nature and serve as symbols of peaceful coexistence between humans and nature, acting as a bridge between modern science and traditional knowledge. “They should become centers of hope and sustainable futures for our children,” she added.
Ansari highlighted the significance of biosphere reserves in Iran, stating, “Iran, with 13 biosphere reserves—including three wetland sites, two marine and coastal sites, two deserts, and six mountainous areas—has always been among the pioneering member states in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.”
Currently, biosphere reserves cover less than four percent of Iran’s national territory, which she noted is insufficient. “We are committed to expanding the network by establishing four more biosphere reserves,” Ansari concluded.
In summary, the ongoing efforts to strengthen biosphere reserves through initiatives like Longjiang reflect a growing global commitment to biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and international cooperation. As nations work together to address shared environmental challenges, the importance of collaborative frameworks cannot be underestimated.
