Iran Opens Doors to Global Collaboration: Twinning Biosphere Reserve Sites with Nations Worldwide
The head of the Department of Environment (DOE), Shina Ansari, recently emphasized Iran’s commitment to enhancing international cooperation as part of the Hangzhou Action Plan. This initiative aims to foster twinning between biosphere reserve sites, thereby promoting collaborative research, knowledge sharing, and scientific exchanges globally.
Ansari made these remarks at the fifth World Congress of Biosphere Reserves (WCBR), which is taking place from September 22 to 26 in Hangzhou, China. This congress serves as a platform for nations to collaborate on sustainable practices and strategies for biosphere reserves.
During her address, Ansari highlighted the importance of adopting ecosystem-based and community-centered approaches in the management of biosphere reserves. She stated, “We highlight ecosystem-based and community-centered approaches in managing biosphere reserves so that these areas can expand their impacts beyond their borders and inspire surrounding areas.”
Unfortunately, the biosphere reserves in Iran are facing significant challenges. Ansari pointed out that they are adversely affected by:
- Heat waves
- Water scarcity
- Climate change
She emphasized the need for solidarity and experience exchange among the World Networks of Biosphere Reserves to bolster their resilience. “We believe that the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) member states have the needed capacity to counter unilateralism and expand multilateralism to strengthen World Networks of Biosphere Reserves,” she added.
Ansari stressed that preserving the World Network of Biosphere Reserves is a shared responsibility. These areas serve not only as sanctuaries for nature but also as symbols of peaceful coexistence between humans and nature. They represent a bridge between modern science and traditional knowledge, and should become centers of hope for future generations.
Elaborating on Iran’s biosphere reserves, she mentioned that the country boasts 13 biosphere reserves, which include:
- Three wetland sites
- Two marine and coastal sites
- Two deserts and arid sites
- Six mountainous areas
Despite covering less than four percent of the national territory, Ansari affirmed Iran’s commitment to expanding its network by establishing four additional biosphere reserves.
In her speech, Ansari also addressed the impact of recent aggressive attacks on Iran by Zionist forces. These attacks, which have been targeting nonmilitary infrastructures such as:
- Medical centers
- Water distribution facilities
- Fuel storage
- Gas refineries
have resulted in the release of CO2 and other pollutants into the environment. Ansari denounced these actions as illegal and harmful, stating that they pose significant risks to environmental health, human well-being, and regional stability.
“The potential consequences extend far beyond national borders, affecting natural ecosystems, air and water resources, food safety, and the well-being of civilians in Iran and across the region,” she observed.
The World Network of Biosphere Reserves convenes every ten years to identify priorities, enhance collaboration, and define a Global Action Plan for the future. This year, over 2000 stakeholders—including scientists, policymakers, community leaders, entrepreneurs, and conservationists—are gathering to shape the future of UNESCO’s 750+ biosphere reserves across 136 countries.
Key discussions at the congress will focus on the contributions of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves to global biodiversity and sustainable development. Efforts will be aligned with major international frameworks, including:
- The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
- The Paris Agreement on Climate Change
- The International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development
As the congress unfolds, the emphasis on collaboration and sustainable practices will be instrumental in shaping a resilient future for biosphere reserves worldwide.
