It has been announced that UNESCO has granted World Biosphere Reserve status on the islands of Fogo and Maio. According to the UNESCO website ‘Biosphere reserves promote solutions reconciling the conservation of biodiversity with its sustainable use. They are learning areas for sustainable development under diverse ecological, social and economic contexts.’
There are only a few countries that have two Biosphere Reserves. It is therefore, an honour and an achievement for a small country like Cape Verde. It is also a tribute to those who have used their expertise and hard work to get these two islands this status.
Again from the UNESCO website –
‘Biosphere Reserves involve local communities and all interested stakeholders in planning and management. They integrate three main “functions”:
Conservation of biodiversity and cultural diversity;
Economic development that is socio-culturally and environmentally sustainable;
Logistic support, underpinning development through research, monitoring, education and training’.
The conservation and ecology work undertaken on these two islands has been rewarded. It has also been strengthened by granting this status. It will also hopefully direct and inform future developments on these islands.
UNESCO is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
