Biosphere Reserves are sites of land and/or marine ecosystems recognized by the MAB (Man and Biosphere) Program of UNESCO as being of worldwide importance for the conservation of biodiversity and the promotion of sustainable development. That should serve as priority areas for the experiment and demonstration of such practices.

The Man and Biosphere Program was created as a result of the “Biosphere Conference” held by UNESCO in September 1968. The MAB Program was launched in 1971 and it is a international scientific cooperation program about the interactions between Man and the environment.

Biosphere Reserve Island of Flores

Island of Flores

The Biosphere Reserve of the island of Flores is made up of the island’s area above the water and an adjacent marine area, in a total of  58.619 ha. In its inside there are landscape, geological, environmental and cultural values that are unique.

The Biosphere Reserve of the island of Flores presents areas of international importance because they are nesting sites to important species of sea birds, many of which are described in the Annex I of the Bird Directive of the European Union.

More Information: SIARAM Site 

Biosphere Reserve Island of Graciosa

Island of Graciosa

In September 2007, the island of Graciosa became part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves, by decision of the Bureau of the International Council for the Coordination of the MAB Programe.

Such recognition reflects the unique environmental, heritage and cultural features of the island of Graciosa. (...) Without a doubt, the island’s islets were a greater value to the candidacy to Biosphere Reserve. They are important nesting habitats for marine birds and they are also resting/transition sites for migratory birds. 

More information: SIARAM site

Biosphere Reserve Island of Corvo

Island of Corvo

The Biosphere Reserve of the island of Corvo is made up of the island’s area above the water and an adjacent marine area, covering a total area of  25.853 ha.

With an unique and exceptional landscape, the island of Corvo is home to a large set of regional and european bird species, which makes the island a privileged site for birdwatching. Given its geographical position almost equidistant from both European and American continents, there are many accidental migratory birds from North America and the Artic that find resting and feeding conditions in the island. The island of Corvo has the largest proportion of flora endemism registered in the archipelago.

More information: SIARAM site