Network of UN ecological reserves adds 22 new sites New York
City - Ranging from coastal mangrove forests to desert mountains
chains, and stretching from Chile to Mongolia, 22 ecosystems
have been added to a United Nations programme that promotes
sustainable development on a scientific basis with the active
involvement of local communities. With the new additions, there
are now 482 sites in 102 countries that make up the World
Network of Biosphere Reserves, under the Man and the Biosphere
(MAB) Programme of the United Nations Scientific, Educational
and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). At each reserve, communities
attempt to enhance their socio-economic development while also
promoting biodiversity conservation. Community members also
contribute to governance, management, research, education,
training and monitoring at the sites, UNESCO says.