The Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, visited Sierra del Rosario, an environmental protection complex inscribed on the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Programme since 1985.
The reserve, located in western Cuba, has several ecological stations. At the Centre for Environmental Research and Services, visitors were informed of the origins of this innovative project, launched in 1968. Its aim, far ahead of its time, is to stimulate an ecological behaviour and accompany the great reforestation project in the region.
The UNESCO high-ranking official was able to perceive the achievements of this programme, as well as its exuberant flora and fauna. A Tocororo, Cuba’s national bird, honoured her with its presence.
She also visited the town of Las Terrazas, a part of the complex characterized by its active community participation, in complete harmony with its natural setting. Ecological tourism is one of the activities that the community offers. The sighting of endemic birds, one of its major attractions, has helped the world know of this marvellous project.
The Director-General praised the advances and achievements of this undertaking since its initial stage, considering it an example of good practices towards the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals and concrete actions to address global climate change. She also confirmed UNESCO’s wish to continue to accompany the Cuban government in protecting and promoting this and other biosphere reserves and protected areas in the country.