North Karelia Biosphere Reserve

Biosphere reserves are model areas for sustainable development designated under the Man and the Biosphere programme (MaB) of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Biosphere reserve's sustainable development model combines regional sustainable development and interdisciplinary research with extensive local collaboration. There are 738 biosphere reserves in 134 countries. The total area covered by biosphere reserves around the world amounts over 7 million km2 (2022).

The North Karelia Biosphere Reserve was established in 1992 and consists of protected areas and their surrounding environments where human activities are taking place. The North Karelia Biosphere Reserve officially consists of Lieksa city, Ilomantsi municipality and Joensuu city's Tuupovaara district, but biosphere reserve related activities are carried out throughout the province of North Karelia.

Biosphere reserve activities focus on regional sustainable development by promoting the economy, nature protection and environmental awareness through research, education and collaboration. The goal is to develop regional practices that consider nature, the economy, culture and communities.