Have your say on the future of The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere
Brighton & Hove sits within a UNESCO biosphere reserve, just like Mount Olympus in Greece or The Golden Gate in the US.
The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere was established in 2014 and is made up of 3 environments – downs, towns, and coast – and 2 rivers run through the biosphere, the River Ouse and the River Adur.
With 2024 marking the 10-year anniversary of the designation, The Living Coast is planning for the next decade.
Looking ahead
Councillor Tim Rowkins, Chair of the City Environment, South Downs and The Sea Committee said: “We are proud to be part of The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere, the UK’s only urban biosphere.
“As we approach the 10-year anniversary of The Living Coast’s UNESCO designation, we are taking stock of what has been achieved so far and looking ahead to the next 10 years.
“This is a valuable opportunity for residents to have their say on The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere and shape its future.
“If you have 10 minutes to spare, please consider completing the survey to help us develop and progress our local biosphere.”
What is a biosphere?
Biospheres are learning sites for sustainable development, reconciling people and nature through 3 key objectives:
- conservation of biodiversity and cultural diversity
- economic development that is socio-culturally and environmentally sustainable
- education, training, research, and monitoring
The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere
The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere is one of 7 UNESCO Biospheres in the UK and one of more than 700 biospheres globally.
At 390km2, The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere is home to over 330,000 residents and hosts 12 million visitors each year.
Within The Living Coast, there are 14 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), 2 National Nature Reserves (NNRs), and 1 Marine Conservation Zone.
The Living Coast is a partnership of more than 40 voluntary, conservation, education, local government and private sector organisations, led by Brighton & Hove City Council.
