Biosphere Reserves (BRs) are designated protected areas established by UNESCO’s Programme on Man and the Biosphere. Their mission, “fostering and demonstrating a balanced relationship between people and nature,” is based on the recognition that biodiversity conservation is only possible with the cooperation of local communities.
Our project, funded by the Interreg VI-A Hungary-Slovakia Programme, aims at enhancing the role and importance of BRs along the Hungarian-Slovak border in biodiversity conservation by involving local communities and exploiting the potential of nature-based solutions (NbS). The project directly involves three BR management organisations: Pilis BR, Fertő-lake BR, and Poľana BR; while Aggtelek BR and Slovak Karst BR are associated partners.
To achieve its goals, the partnership implements 12 pilot initiatives focusing on the restoration of natural habitats, the protection of endangered species, the suppression of invasive species, and environmental education.
Through cross-border cooperation, the BRs will renew their strategies and management plans, incorporating community-driven actions and NbS. To facilitate knowledge transfer, a methodological guide for Central European BRs will be drafted, professional events will be organised. Participation in the next EUROMAB conference will provide international visibility to the project. Actions based on community engagement improve the BRs’ visibility, enhance environmental awareness, and encourage volunteering.
