Integrating protection and development issues through expansion: A case study of Tianmushan-Qingliangfeng World Biosphere Reserve

Authors

Wei WANG, Institute of Ecology, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, ChinaFollow

Keywords

multi-stakeholder governance; sustainable development; other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs); protected areas

Document Type

China's Practice in World Biosphere Reserves

Abstract

In September 2025, the Fifth UNESCO World Congress of Biosphere Reserves will be held in Hangzhou, China. The delegates will engage in detailed discussions on key issues, including the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature, as well as balanced conservation and development. This congress will also develop a strategic and action plan for the next phase of the world biosphere reserves. The Tianmushan-Qingliangfeng World Biosphere Reserve represents China’s first successful application for world biosphere reserve achieved through an expansion process. Here, this study first elucidates the value and significance of expanding world biosphere reserves. Subsequently, drawing on the practical experience of the Tianmushan-Qingliangfeng World Biosphere Reserve’s expansion application, the study summarizes key insights into the expansion process, focusing on fundamentals and background, determination of boundaries and functional zoning, as well as the refinement of governance mechanisms. On this basis, the study further explores potential pathways and offers strategic recommendations, including the establishment of multi-stakeholder governance models, supporting the “3030” goals of the Convention on Biological Diversity , enhancing contributions toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and reinforcing the role of scientific research and monitoring. These insights aim to provide valuable references and guidance for the expansion of world biosphere reserves in China and other countries.

First page

1596

Last Page

1605

Language

Chinese

Publisher

Bulletin of Chinese Academy of Sciences

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Recommended Citation

WANG, Wei (2024) "Integrating protection and development issues through expansion: A case study of Tianmushan-Qingliangfeng World Biosphere Reserve," Bulletin of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Chinese Version): Vol. 40 : Iss. 9 , Article 15.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3724/j.issn.1000-3045.20250421005
Available at: https://bulletinofcas.researchcommons.org/journal/vol40/iss9/15