UNESCO Biosphere Application

Our journey to biosphere status began with extensive research and listening to local voices. Early studies looked at the Forest’s natural environment, cultural heritage, and economic potential. Surveys such as The Forest We Want showed strong public support, with more than 90% of respondents agreeing with the main aims of biospheres: protecting nature, supporting a sustainable economy, and creating learning opportunities.

The application process has several stages. First, we gather evidence and consult widely with residents, landowners, businesses and community organisations. Next, we define the proposed biosphere boundaries, including core areas (for conservation), buffer zones (for compatible activities), and transition zones (where communities and businesses thrive). We then prepare a nomination file for the UK Man and the Biosphere Committee, who review it before forwarding it to UNESCO for a final decision.

	National Forest Park (1938), Hobhouse report (1947) long standing debate on landscape protection ONS economic case study, Forest Economic Partnership
	‘The Forest We Want’ survey 600 responses and 40 business Glover Review – noted biosphere options Formation of Biosphere Action Group (Later Biosphere Steering Group)
	District council supports further investigation UNESCO UK Man and Biosphere Committee awards candidate status
	District council unanimously supports application to UNESCO Stakeholder conference Partners support including GCC, Hartpury University & the tourism association Primary school poster competition Town & parish council survey letter Verder’s court & Freeminers briefed
	Engagement with Commoners Association Forest Future Story engagement programme Household leaflet
	Briefings to groups, parish councils & district councillors Submission of draft nomination to UK Man & Biosphere Committee for feedback
	Continued engagement & development of proposal (nomination) Review and feedback from Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
	Submission of nomination to UNESCO
	Application outcome

The council is working closely with partners such as the Environment Agency, Forestry England, universities, and local groups to shape the proposal. Our timeline anticipates submitting a nomination in September 2026. If successful, implementation will involve setting up governance structures, securing funding, and launching projects that benefit both people and nature.

At every stage, we will share progress openly and invite you to have your say. This is a community-led journey, and the Forest’s future will be shaped by the people who live, work and visit here.

Application stages:

Exploration - Surveys, studies, initial consultation (completed)
Consultation - Events, workshops, public feedback (underway)
Nomination File - Formal UNESCO submission nomination form drafted (March 2026)
Submission & Review - (April - September 2026)

Formal UNESCO submission nomination form sent to UK Man and Biosphere (MAB) (April 2026)

Updates, feedback and sign-off from UK MAB (May 2026)

Further nomination form signatures and endorsements (June – July 2026)

Final application shared with UK National Commission for UNESCO (UKNC) (August 2026)

UKNC submit final application with a letter of support to UNESCO (September 2026)
Implementation – Governance, projects, monitoring (if successful)

UNESCO Biosphere Application

Further reading on the emerging biosphere proposal

Related Pages