International Recognition of the Biocultural Protection in Dryland Regions: The World Heritage Property in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve

Abstract

To know and deal with the current challenges of the socio-ecological environment, it has been necessary the use of mechanisms to protect, preserve and make visible the bioculturality of communities. These challenges are multidimensional and intersectoral, and relate to phenomena such as the increase in the intensity of natural phenomena, changes in the ecosystems, and the rapid loss of biodiversity involving loss of ecosystem services, public health and economic spillover exacerbated by the population increase, and the pressure involved in the current development model. An example of a dryland region with socio-ecological pressures such as those mentioned above is the case of the Tehuacan-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve, with a World Heritage Mixed Property of UNESCO. Traces of ancient communities have been found in this area that managed to adapt and evolve within drylands. Since 1999 the area has been considered of great importance because of its different schemes and instruments for conservation at the international, national, and local level. Above all, it is an important example of how international conventions urge to protect and preserve the identity of the people, their ecosystem, and their ways of life in dryland regions.