BIOSPHERE RESERVE

Menorca: Biosphere Reserve

Menorca: Biosphere Reserve

On the 8th of October, 1993, the island of Minorca was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. The Biosphere Reserves are places on the planet where they are experimenting with the concept of sustainable development. That is to say, these are area where human activity is developed in a manner compatible with the conservation of the natural resources with the aim of ensuring their continuing existence for future generations of inhabitants and visitors to the island.

Cultural heritage

This declaration has been granted to 411 places worldwide where there a natural and cultural inheritance exists and where at the same time society has accepted an economic development compatible with the conservation of the environment. A Biosphere Reserve is a pact of cohabitation between man and his natural surroundings. UNESCO considered that Minorca was worthy of this declaration for the diversity of its Mediterranean landscapes together with the animal and plant species unique to the island, some of which are in danger of extinction.

Appreciated beauty

UNESCO also valued the traditional rural character of the countryside in much of the island and appreciated the beauty of the landscape. Another important factor was the existence of the large archaeological and ethnological heritage. The administration of Minorca, together with many businesses and organisations, are actively working towards these objectives.

Activities

The activities underway are many, particularly, the collection of recyclable waste, making compost of organic waste, control of urban development, protection of the land, protection and care of the beaches and the specially protected surroundings, protection of the historic heritage, protection of animals and plants in danger of extinction, educational programmes in the schools, environmental education, education for the protection of natural resources and many more. Minorca is rightly proud of this declaration, involved in preserving it and enjoys sharing its natural and historic heritage with its visitors.

Migjada 2017 SL - B16550170 - Carretera Sant Felip s/n, 07720 Es Castell - Menorca - (+34) 626 35 95 52 - [email protected]