Armenia

Biosphere Reserves as model regions for climate change mitigation and adaptation – capacity development for the establishment of the Dilijan Biosphere Reserve

Armenia is located in the Caucasus ecoregion, which is one of 25 "Global Biodiversity Hotspots" according to the criteria of Conservation International. Biodiversity is characterized by a high degree of endemism. Almost all important natural ecosystems of the Caucasus are represented here. Dilijan National Park is known for its forest landscapes, mineral springs and natural and cultural monuments. Although the region has an overwhelming wealth of species, it is endangered, especially in terms of the climate change risks and anthropogenic threats such as intensive exploitation of natural resources or pollution.

To address the challenges and foster sustainable development of the region, the Armenian government decided to promote the UNESCO concept of "Man and Biosphere" (MaB) in Armenia and to initiate the establishment of the country's first biosphere reserve (BR). For this purpose, with the support of German partners, a project “Biosphere Reserves as model regions for climate change mitigation and adaptation – capacity development for the establishment of the Dilijan Biosphere Reserve in Armenia“ was launched.

Project aims:

The project aims to

• build capacities of partners and stakeholders on specific issues, such as BR administration, sustainable land use and cooperation mechanisms.
• National and local stakeholders will be closely involved in the development of a participatory plan to establish the BR.
• As a result, the Dilijan region will have an opportunity to be recognized as the first model region under the UNESCO MaB initiative in Armenia.

This will promote conservation of biodiversity in balance with the sustainable use of natural resources, test climate protection and adaptation strategies, thereby enhancing the resilience of the climate-vulnerable region.