Rapid population growth and expanding human activity have led to global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and dwindling natural resources. Since our well-being is closely connected to nature, responsible and intelligent management of the environment is essential.

In response to these challenges, UNESCO launched the "Man and the Biosphere" (MAB) Programme in 1971. This initiative introduced the innovative concept of biosphere reserves.

Today, the World Network of Biosphere Reserves includes 759 sites across 136 countries. Together, they cover more than 7.4 million square kilometers and are home to about 275 million people.
 

How Is a Biosphere Reserve Organized?

Each biosphere reserve is divided into three interconnected zones:

• Core Zone: The most strictly protected area, essential for conserving biodiversity and ecosystems in the long term. Only scientific research and monitoring are permitted here.
• Buffer Zone: Surrounds the core area and provides an additional layer of protection. Sustainable and eco-friendly activities such as ecotourism, agriculture, forestry, and environmental education are allowed.
• Transition Zone: The largest area, where people live and work. Social and economic activities take place here, aligned with the goals of sustainability and resource conservation.
   

The Three Alazani Rivers Biosphere Reserve

Officially recognized by UNESCO in 2022, the Three Alazani Rivers Biosphere Reserve is located in eastern Georgia’s Kakheti region. Covering 199,944 hectares, the reserve boasts exceptional geographic diversity- from the Alazani Valley to the summits of the Greater Caucasus - and includes the watersheds of the Alazani, Tushetis Alazani, and Pirikita Alazani rivers.

Its landscapes stretch from 470 to 4,200 meters above sea level. The environment ranges from diverse forests, farmlands, and rural settlements to alpine meadows and rare high-mountain ecosystems.

In 2022, UNESCO designated two biosphere reserves in Georgia: one in Akhmeta and Telavi municipalities (the Three Alazani Rivers Biosphere Reserve) and another in Dedoplistskaro municipality (the Dedoplistskaro Biosphere Reserve). Special attention was given to traditional sheep herding routes to preserve Tushetian transhumance and proactively address future ecological and social challenges.

The Three Alazani area is especially vulnerable to climate change. Increasing land degradation and landslides threaten both local communities and ecosystems. In higher elevations, climate shifts affect glaciers, water streams, and rare alpine plant life.

The reserve was established in response to these threats and aims to support the region’s sustainable development.

Its main goals are:

• To protect natural and cultural heritage and biodiversity;
• To improve local livelihoods and boost the economy;
• To preserve traditional, eco-friendly practices like transhumant pastoralism and introduce green innovations;
• To encourage sustainable business, small enterprises, and service industries;
• To implement educational programs and promote knowledge-sharing for sustainable development. Visual: A wide-angle landscape image across both pages with overlaid text.