MAB survey on Climate Change
In October 2015, the MAB Programme asked its biosphere reserve managers to complete a short survey on biosphere reserves and climate change. A large majority of participants (77%) confirmed that changes had been observed in their biosphere reserve which could be attributed to climate change.
Most of the biosphere reserves mention seasonal changes such as shorter winters and longer periods of drought. The Bassin de la Dordogne Biosphere Reserve in France presents the most striking change: over the last 40 years the temperature of the Dordogne river has risen by 2°C.
60% of the participating biosphere reserves confirmed that they are undertaking efforts to monitor climate change, but only 38% of the reserves are taking or plan to undertake climate change adaptation efforts, 49% stated that they are making efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in their biosphere reserve.
Results of the MAB survey on Climate Change
Climate related hazards
At least 40% of all Biosphere Reserves are exposed to climate related hazards, including mainly floods, landslides and wildfires, followed by snow and ice related hazards. Cyclones, drought and extreme temperatures are less frequently met. It is highly likely that a future change in climate will have an impact on the frequency and ensuing intensity of these hazards.
