Frequently asked questions
What makes an area suitable to become a biosphere reserve?
Biosphere reserves are renowned for their exceptional environments and a high diversity of life. Biosphere reserves are areas where the special attributes of the area are considered to be potential assets for local people and societies. When an area demonstrates good examples of using and preserving these resources, it may become a biosphere reserve.
Are people allowed to live in a biosphere reserve?
To fulfil the criteria for a biosphere reserve, people must live in the area. The concept of sustainable development depends on local support and involvement. The people living in the area are essential to biosphere reserves.
Is a biosphere reserve similar to those big domes?
No, a biosphere reserve isn't an artificially constructed area.It is a place where people live and work. The local community care for the environment and manage resources in the biosphere reserve that allow stable and sustainable economic growth and development.
What are the functions of biosphere reserves?
Each biosphere reserve should fulfil three functions that work together and reinforce one another:
• A conservation function - to preserve genetic variation, species, ecosystems and landscapes.
• A development function - to foster sustainable economic and human development.
• A logistic function - to support research, monitoring, education and information exchange related to local, national, and global issues of conservation and development.
How will this benefit residents?
Residents can expect a range of benefits: new funding opportunities, support for green jobs, better promotion of the district, and a stronger profile nationally and internationally. There will also be greater opportunities for young people through education, research, and training linked to biosphere projects.
Who decides what happens in the biosphere?
Decisions will be made locally through a partnership board including representatives from the district council, landowners, community groups, businesses, and environmental organisations. UNESCO’s role is to recognise and support the designation, not to control local decisions.
Will this change planning laws or land ownership?
No. Biosphere status does not create new legal powers. Land ownership remains the same, and planning decisions will continue to follow national and local policies. The biosphere provides a framework for partnership, not regulation.
Will house prices or second homes increase?
This concern has been raised in consultations. Biosphere designation does not affect planning policy or directly influence house prices. However, the council and partners will continue to monitor impacts of tourism and housing, and ensure that policies protect the interests of local communities.
Will it attract more tourists?
Biosphere status often attracts visitors who value nature and culture. The aim is to manage tourism sustainably, so that it benefits local businesses while protecting the Forest’s character. Lessons from other biospheres show that careful planning can enhance visitor experience without overwhelming communities.
Will biosphere status affect my right to Free Mining?
No. The historic right to Free Mine, which allows individuals certain traditional mining rights in the Forest of Dean, remains fully intact. Biosphere designation does not alter these rights, nor does it impose new restrictions on mining activities. Existing legal protections and mining practices continue as before.
What is the difference between a biosphere reserve and a Natural World Heritage Site?
A biosphere reserve is a representative ecological area with three mutually reinforcing functions: conservation, sustainable development, and logistic support for scientific research and education. Natural World Heritage Sites must have outstanding universal value in accordance with the UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (1972).
How does UNESCO ensure that biosphere reserves function properly?
Biosphere reserves are governed by "soft law". Member States of UNESCO commit to apply the
Statutory Framework for Biosphere Reserves and undertake a ten-yearly periodic review process for each biosphere reserve. The MAB (Man and the Biosphere) national committee in each country ensures biosphere reserves fulfil the criteria and function properly: in the UK this is the UK MAB Committee.
How does UNESCO decide on designating an area a biosphere reserve?
UNESCO undertakes its own review and approvals procedures then makes the final decision. This includes review by a special international advisory committee of experts and then by the Bureau of the MAB programme and its International Coordinating Council (ICC). The approvals process is undertaken only once a year, so deadlines for submissions are important. Dates for submission can be found on the UNESCO website.
How can I get involved?
You can take part in surveys, attend public meetings, join community groups, or volunteer with local projects. Updates will be shared on the council’s biosphere site, and residents will have many opportunities to help shape the future of the Forest of Dean as a biosphere.