Biosphere Reserves

Internationally important nature values, and types of environment created by means of livelihood characteristic to the area, are studied in UNESCO´s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme. The Biosphere Reserve is not a traditional protected area, because the activities of people in it play an important role. The goal of the programme is to develop the living conditions of the inhabitants, without compromising the protection of nature and the environment.

• In North Karelian Biosphere Reserve the core areas are
Petkeljärvi National Park, Patvinsuo National Park, Koivusuo Strict Nature Reserve and Kesosuo Nature Reserve.
• The Archipelago Sea and West Estonian Archipelago Biosphere Reserve includes the Southwestern Archipelago National Park. During 2002 - 2004 an international project is focusing on developing sustainable nature tourism in the area. Read more about the Archipelago Sea Biosphere Reserve (www.skargardshavetsbiosfaromrade.fi).