Armenia

Biosphere Reserves as model regions for climate change mitigation and adaptation – capacity development for the establishment of the Dilijan Biosphere Reserve

Armenia is located within the Caucasus ecoregion, which is considered one of the global biodiversity hotspots according to the criteria of Conservation International. The region is characterized by exceptionally high biodiversity and a high level of endemism. Nearly all major natural ecosystems of the Caucasus ecoregion are represented in the country. The Dilijan region is known for its extensive forest landscapes, mineral springs, and significant natural and cultural monuments. Although the region has an outstanding wealth of species, it is extremely endangered, especially in terms of the climate change risks and anthropogenic threats such as intensive exploitation of natural resources or environmental pollution.

Against this background, the Armenian government is advancing the UNESCO concept “Man and the Biosphere” (MAB). In 2023, the establishment of the country’s first biosphere reserve was initiated. With the support of German partners, the project on capacity development for the Dilijan Biosphere Reserve establishment was successfully implemented.

As part of the project, comprehensive ecological, social, and economic studies were carried out, providing a sound scientific basis for the planning and zoning of the biosphere reserve. Building on these analyses, the boundaries, zones, and core functions of the future Dilijan Biosphere Reserve were defined through a broad participatory process. In doing so, key sectors, ecological and cultural values, as well as existing and potential threats were systematically identified.

Through numerous workshops, training measures, and an international study tour, the technical and institutional capacities of local and national stakeholders were significantly strengthened. In particular, competencies were developed in the areas of biosphere reserve management, sustainable land use, participatory planning processes, and cross-sectoral cooperation.

To ensure long-term viable governance, governance structures as well as potential financing mechanisms for the biosphere reserve were discussed. Broad participation was ensured through the establishment of a local working group with more than 30 members and through regular intersectoral coordination meetings.

In addition, a comprehensive implementation plan was developed and approved by relevant stakeholders. The document defines the main elements of the planned biosphere reserve and outlines a clear roadmap for the next steps toward its successful nomination and formal establishment.

The measures implemented within the project have created a strong institutional, technical, and societal foundation for Armenia’s first biosphere reserve. The Dilijan region is therefore well prepared to be nominated as a model region under the UNESCO MAB Programme. The initiative makes a significant contribution to reconciling biodiversity conservation with the sustainable use of natural resources, testing climate protection and adaptation strategies in practice, and strengthening the long-term resilience of this climate-vulnerable region.