A panel discussion titled “The Role of Biosphere Reserves in Mitigating Conflicts Between Humans and Nature” has been jointly organized with UNESCO Chairs from our university, the University of Coimbra, Heidelberg University of Education, and the Federal University of Pará. This will take place during the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves (WCBR), scheduled to be held in Hangzhou, China, from September 22 to 26, 2025.
Date & Time: 24, Sep. 2025; 6:15pm-7:45pm
Venue: Hangzhou International Expo Center, China
The human–nature conflict (HNC) has been a central theme of the MAB Programme since its inception. Rather than focusing on untouched or strictly protected areas, the programme has emphasized sustainably managed ecosystems and the challenge of balancing development with conservation. In recent years, the international community has advanced the vision of “living in harmony with nature” within the “biosphere, including people.” The efforts of the MAB Programme have contributed to shaping international conventions. Yet, the programme itself remains relatively unknown outside the MAB community, particularly among young people. Despite making significant progress in addressing HNC, we have not been entirely successful in communicating these achievements to a broader audience. In this event, we will highlight HNC efforts that are not yet fully reflected in international conventions: (1) Reducing conflict between fully recovered wildlife and human communities; (2) Community-led participatory science and digital tools for conserving biodiversity in Biosphere Reserves (BRs); and (3) The role of BRs in climate change mitigation and adaptation. We will also explore fresh perspectives through intergenerational dialogue—between senior MAB contributors and young people, including students.
Key Speakers/Panelists (Note: Include names, affiliations, and roles. Diversity and inclusivity of speakers are prioritized.)
o Miguel Clüsener-Godt (University of Coimbra) Opening and closing remarks.
o Mr. Luis Aragon (Federal University of Pará) Role of BRs in peacebuilding processes
o Ms. Helena Freitas (University of Coimbra) Biodiversity Futures in BRs
o Mr. Alexander Siegmund (Heidelberg University of Education) New ideas of participatory science
o Mr. Takumi Akiyama (Yokohama National University, student) Mitigating Human-Bear Conflict based on “Coexistence of human and bear in mutual fear”
o Mr Hiroyuki Matsuda (Yokohama National University) Moderator