Highlighting the connections between food and Biosphere Reserves on the International Day for Biological Diversity

UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme has released a digital compilation of recipes shared by Biosphere Reserves. These are shared in the framework of the International Day for Biological Diversity on 22 May.

This year, the celebrations have focused on the theme “Our Biodiversity, Our Food, Our Health” in order to raise awareness on the impact of the loss of biodiversity on food security. According to researchers, more than 90% of crop varieties and half the breeds of domestic animals have disappeared in the past few years. When it comes to sea resources, the outlook is also bleak: all of the world's 17 main fishing grounds are being fished at or above their sustainable limits.

Being territories dedicated to Sustainable Development, Biosphere Reserves can play a fundamental role not only in the preservation of species, but also by setting successful benchmarks for the sustainable agricultural practices.

The ‘living’ document, which will be updated on a regular basis, features recipes from 19 countries and curiosities about what makes human communities in these sites and their recipes unique and respectful of life.

To download the English version, click here. The French version will be available soon.