Tehran – An Iranian delegation led by Sheena Ansari, head of the Ministry of the Environment (DOE), is taking part in the 5th World Reserves Conference (WCBR), which will be held in Hangzhou, China from September 22nd to 26th.
The global network of biosphere reserves, held every decade, comes together to identify priorities, enhance collaboration, and define future global action plans.
More than 2,000 stakeholders, including scientists, policymakers, community leaders, entrepreneurs and parents, come together to shape the future of UNESCO’s more than 750 biosphere reserves in 136 countries.
The discussion focuses on the global network of contributions of biosphere reserves to the global biodiversity and sustainable development agenda, addressing major international frameworks such as the Kunming Montorial’s Global Biodiversity Framework, the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, and the International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development.
In May, the head of the Tehran office of the United Nations Education, Science and Cultural Organizations (UNESCO) invited the country to participate in the fifth WCBR.
Working on a workshop on “Sustainable Alternative Livelihoods in Iran’s Biosphere Reserve” and a preparatory meeting for China 2025 WCBR in Sharud, Semnan province, officials said it is essential to boost cooperation in protecting the planet and promoting human well-being. Holding a meeting is important to achieving your goals, Irna quoted Thron as saying.
The workshop was held to commemorate the International Day for Biological Diversity, with 13 Biosphere Reserves, Professors and Directors of Experts taking part in the event.
Iran is a pioneer in environmental protection. However, the country faces several challenges, including climate change, water shortages and drought, poses a serious threat to the country’s environment, officials said.
“Biodiversity and sustainable development strengthen the relationship between humans and the environment. Therefore, these three points are extremely important: wisely use natural resources, improve local economies, and maintain ecosystem health,” added Srong.
International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated on May 22nd. This year, the day highlighted the inherent connections between people and the natural world through the theme of “harmony with nature and sustainable development.”
It emphasized the need to achieve Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework Targets. This is correlated with achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS).
Iran’s UNESCO Programme, including Environmental Education
Environmental Education is on the list of major UNESCO programs in Iran and aims to develop sustainable solutions and international cooperation to address environmental challenges.
From a UNESCO perspective, environmental education is a learning process that raises public awareness of the environment and its challenges. Equipping individuals with knowledge, skills, values, experience and goals to address these environmental issues, the IRNA cites Hassan Faltosi, Secretary-General of Iran’s UNESCO National Committee.
Educational programs include the International Hydrology Program, International Geoscience and Geopolitics Program, Intergovernmental Oceanography Program, and International Basic Science Program. The Greening Education Partnership, he said, is one of the most important initiatives UNESCO has adopted to help the country help tackle climate change.
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