The 38th session of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) International Coordinating Council, held in Hernandarias, Paraguay, has officially approved today the designation of the Aruba Biosphere Reserve, recognizing the entire island as part of UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
The reserve encompasses the whole island, covering approximately 19,300 hectares and incorporating an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of nearly 3 million hectares. Aruba's Biosphere Reserve is home to approximately 108,000 inhabitants.
This landmark achievement is the result of a strong and inclusive co-construction process involving governmental institutions, local communities, civil society, scientists, and private sector stakeholders, with technical assistance provided by the UNESCO Regional Office for the Caribbean.
"The concept of biosphere reserves is particularly well suited to the realities of the Caribbean and of Small Island Developing States. These territories demonstrate how biodiversity conservation, cultural heritage, and sustainable development can go hand in hand. We hope Aruba's designation will inspire other countries in the region to consider this model and join the World Network of Biosphere Reserves." -Eric Falt, Regional Director of UNESCO for the Caribbean