UNESCO Chair "Socio-Economic Models of the Biosphere Reserves"
Mission
The UNESCO Chair “Socio-Economic Models of the Biosphere Reserves” at Plekhanov University focuses on the integration of environmental conservation and sustainable economic development within UNESCO-designated biosphere reserves.
To develop interdisciplinary research, policy recommendations, and practical tools that support the effective functioning of biosphere reserves as models of sustainable development — combining environmental protection, scientific research, and socio-economic innovation.
Key Areas of Work
Sustainable Development Indicators: Designing and applying tools to evaluate how biosphere reserves contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Economic Integration: Exploring how conservation areas can be embedded into regional and national economies while preserving biodiversity.
Institutional Cooperation: Strengthening collaboration among scientific institutions, government agencies, and local communities.
Global Ranking Initiative: Launching a pioneering international ranking of institutional integration in biosphere reserves to assess their performance and global impact.
Activities
- Collaborative research with national parks, geoparks, and UNESCO biosphere reserves
- Expert meetings and policy dialogues
- Training and educational programs for professionals in environmental management and regional planning
- Joint projects with international and Russian academic and environmental organizations
Strategic Relevance
The Chair serves as a bridge between academic expertise and real-world application, advancing UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme by demonstrating how protected areas can become engines of local sustainable development.