South Downs recognised by UNESCO as
UNESCO have recognised the Brighton and Lewes Downs as a Biosphere Reserve
Making it the UK’s first new Biosphere Reserve in 40 years.
It covers approximately 390km² and includes some of the South Downs National Park.
Chairman of the Brighton and Lewes Downs Biosphere partnership, Chris Todd, was quoted by UNESCO: "This is world recognition for the fantastic environment we have here and for all the hard work that local people put into looking after it."
But what exactly is a Biosphere Reserve and what difference will it make to the area?
The status granted to Brighton and Lewes downs is part of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB). UNESCO describes this as a programme that "aims to establish a scientific basis for the improvement of relationships between people and their environments". The aim is for a mutually beneficial relationship - sustainable development to create a healthy environment that benefits the local economy and people’s physical and mental health, while conserving it for future generations.
Learn more about the successful bid here.
