Several programmes targeting ecological and earth sciences
Activities related to biodiversity are notably conducted via the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. Its World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR), with more than 450 sites worldwide, provides opportunities to:

• reduce biodiversity loss
• improve livelihoods
• enhance social, economic and cultural conditions necessary for environmental sustainability

Earth sciences at UNESCO span research, monitoring, training and education in geology and geophysics. Main research activities are organized in the framework of the International Geoscience Programme (IGCP).

4 main lines of action
UNESCO's Draft Programme 2006-2007 defines four main lines of action for ecological and earth sciences, which are summarized here:

1) Research and capacity-building for ecosystem management

• Analyzing links between global change, ecosystem management and biodiversity loss (targeting decision-makers)
• Training of scientists
• International cooperation on arid lands and humid tropics
• Rehabilitating the Indian Ocean coastal ecosystems (via partnerships)

2) Biosphere reserves: promoting environmental sustainability

• Improving coverage and functioning of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBRs)
• Promote transboundary biosphere reserves
• Use biosphere reserve as learning sites for the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development
• Establishing a knowledge base on ecosystems management and monitoring in biosphere reserves
• Optimizing potential of biosphere reserves in conflict prevention and management

3) Enhancing linkages between cultural and biological diversity

• Establishing a knowledge base on cultural practices fostering sustainable use of biodiversity in small island developing states
• Raising awareness about the role of sacred sites, cultural landscapes and intangible heritage in ecosystem management and sustainable use of biodiversity

4) Earth sciences and earth system monitoring

• Strengthening research of the earth system and scientific networks via interdisciplinary projects
• Increasing awareness of earth sciences and economic benefits of sustainable geo-tourism
• Establishing collaborative science policy-maker mechanisms to highlight value of global earth observation
• Establishing a network on use of space technologies for monitoring, conservation and capacity-building activities benefiting biosphere reserves and World Heritage sites
• Strengthening capacities on geological maps and technical documents based on information collected in situ and from space
• Preparing earth science-related education and training materials as well as curricula, integrating results from space observation

Read complete official strategies and approaches in UNESCO's Draft Programme 2006-2007 (PDF document)