[Answered] Biosphere reserves are places where humans live in harmony with nature, and where there is an effective combination of sustainable development and nature conservation. Discuss

The concept of Biosphere Reserves was launched in 1975 as a part of UNESCO’s ‘Man and Biosphere Programme. Biosphere reserves are the protected areas meant for the conservation of plants and animals. It includes terrestrial, marine and coastal ecosystems. There are 18 Biosphere Reserves in India established by the government that protect large areas of natural habitats.

Importance of Biosphere Reserve:

• The main aim of biosphere reserve is to preserve genetic diversity in representative ecosystems by protecting wild animals, traditional life style of inhabitant and domesticated plant/animal genetic resources.
• It ensures sustainable developments including economic, cultural, social and economic developments.
• The biosphere reserves helps in restoration of any damage caused to the ecosystems and habitats.
• They help in maintaining healthy ecosystems by preventing soil erosion, protecting water springs and maintaining the decomposers to maintain the soil quality.
• Biosphere Reserves are also popularly known as the Laboratory of Nature, where research and scientific studies could be carried out along with several training programs.

However, Biosphere reserves are also facing some natural and anthropogenic threats that are required to be handled properly:

• Climate change is a major factor which caters to the degradation of Wildlife. Scorching weather conditions give a spark to the wildfire which causes huge devastation of both the flora and fauna.
• Deforestation is gaining momentum without planning reforestation. Land is acquired to construct houses, and factories, and set up a society.
• Problems like illegal trading, poaching, and hunting of wildlife have emerged as a major challenge.
• Stone crushing and fragmentation of mountains in search of coals are causing a significant loss of habitat.
• Issues of concern also include biodiversity, clean energy, environmental education, and water and waste management, supported by scientific research and monitoring.

It is our responsibility and clearly in our interest to respect the environment. More financial support from richer nations and from the private sector would be desirable for establishing biosphere reserves in the various countries.