The variety of life on Earth is disappearing at an increasing rate. UNESCO's MAB Programme is an intergovernmental initiative originally created to set up the scientific basis for improving people's relationships with nature, linking the natural and social sciences. In particular, MAB aims at increasing our understanding on the structure, functioning and dynamics of ecosystems and people's roles therein. Assessing global change impacts on ecosystems and promoting appropriate management of freshwater resources in these systems have become key issues in recent years for the MAB programme.

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Drylands and desertification
Drylands occupy about 40% of Earth's land area and are home to over 2 billion people, many of whom live below the poverty line. Find out how we can preserve these valuable ecosystems and combat desertification so as to ensure improved livelihoods for dryland dwellers.

Island and coastal areas
Ecosystems of coastal areas, small islands and mangroves have an important economic value for local population. Activities notably aim to enhance capacities to manage water ecosystems with abundant or scarce water resources.

Mountains
Mountains are diverse, species-rich and fragile ecosystems. Global change may profoundly affect mountain habitats and human livelihoods. What studies are needed to understand the impact of global change on mountains?

Tropical forests
Work notably includes the setting up and support of a post-graduate regional training school on management of tropical forests, located in Congo DR.

Urban systems
The MAB Urban Group investigates biosphere reserves' contributions to sustainable urban development, and promotes the agenda for urban ecosystem research and policy-making. This web section notably allows members of the Urban Group to share information.

Wetlands
The management of water - the key component of wetlands - affects the daily lives of millions of people. Discover wetland sites of internationally recognized value.