Biosphere Reserves and sustainable development
Biosphere reserves serve as model areas for sustainable development, aiming to fulfil three basic functions, which are complementary and mutually reinforcing:
- Conservation: Contribute to the conservation of landscapes, ecosystems, species and genetic variation.
- Development: Foster economic and human development which is socio-culturally and ecologically sustainable.
- Logistic support: Support for demonstration projects, environmental education and training, research and monitoring related to local, regional, national and global issues of conservation and sustainable development.
North Karelia Biosphere Reserve operates in various areas of sustainable development. The key areas are biodiversity, natural resources, energy and climate change. The biosphere reserve's natural resource governance mainly focuses on sustainable forestry and bioenergy.