Biosphere Reserves encourage socio-economic actors who take initiative in support of the environment and sustainable development, using specific mechanisms. Thus making it possible to identify concrete actions taken by businesses, associations, citizens, and to support original projects. This contributes to the ecological transition in a positive way, by building on local initiatives and establishing networks of ambassadors (eco-players) in the Biosphere Reserves. 

A charter of commitment

It is proposed to sign a commitment charter to companies or associations that, recognizing themselves in Unesco's values, wish to be actors in a more sustainable future for their Biosphere Reserve. They make concrete and measurable commitments in terms of biodiversity, environment and sustainable development, as part of a process of progress. They then become Eco-players of the Biosphere Reserve. Doing so, they contribute to the economic and social development of the territory.

How to build a network of eco-players

The process for setting up a charter of commitment and building a network of eco-players in Biosphere Reserves is detailed in this document: I-Blio online

The commitment charter is based on the principles of the Seville Strategy and the challenges and expectations of the territory. One becomes an eco-player by signing the commitment charter of their Biosphere Reserve. This implies sharing the BRs' values and committing to a progress process. Each signatory determines, in its own activity, commitments that correspond to the extent of progress to be achieved. All types of activities are concerned by the commitment charter.           

A technical support guide 

This guide is a proposed methodology for creating networks of stakeholders committed to sustainable development in Biosphere Reserves (BRs) and beyond. It is intended to be adapted according to the local context, the resources (human and financial) available for project implementation and the organisation’s affinity to participatory approaches. It provides best practice for creating a charter, based on the feedback of two French and two English BRs.
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