The Italian Julian Alps-A new Biosphere Reserve for a sustainable future

Abstract

In June 2019 UNESCO established the new Italian Julian Alps Biosphere Reserve (BR) in the frame of the MAB programme. It includes the entire territory of 11 mountain municipalities in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. The recognition is based on the special biodiversity of the area, its original historical and cultural characteristics, and the possibility of creating a new transboundary BR with the Slovenian Julian Alps. Ongoing projects dedicated to nature preservation, awareness raising on environmental topics, the promotion of typical local products and the involvement of the local community were also judged positively. The BR is seen by local administrators and stakeholders as an opportunity to develop actions for sustainability with regard to the protection and enhancement of the extraordinary environmental richness, and to give young people the opportunity to live in the area. For this reason, the Management Committee will be supported in its activity by a Youth Advisory Board.