Recommendations from the 25th session of the ICC MAB

2. Recommendations from the 25th session of the ICC MAB • MAB BR evaluation should be considered as a strategic thinking tool to also evaluate the Seville Strategy and to place the World Network of Biosphere Reserves into the context of the follow up to Rio+20, green economy, biodiversity conservation, combating desertification and the challenges imposed by climate change. Specifically in the context of the MAB Programme, the evaluation of MAP should also be seen to strengthen regional collaboration, such as that already practiced through the IberoMAB Network and its 10 year workplan (2010-2012) related to the MAP. • Concepts such as green economy and sufficiency economy must be enhanced with appropriate relevance not only to growth but also introducing appropriate sustainable livelihoods and life styles based on moderate consumption and cultural patterns.

3. Recommendations of the “Strategic Meeting of Asia and the Pacific Biosphere Reserve Networks in Shaping the Future We Want for All Hanoi, Vietnam 21-26 April 2013” Knowledge Platform and Networking • It is recommended to research and promote digital platforms for user generated content for site based stories, tourism and knowledge sharing. Use social media and public domain for global knowledge sharing for connecting sub-regional networks, MAB committees by sharing news, scientific data and expertise. • Share curricula and expertise on education for sustainable development and green schools to improve links between BRs and society for public awareness, involvement and ownership. • Twinning between BRs facing similar challenges needs to formalised and encouraged for exchanging stakeholders, expertise, sharing models, schools and joint projects. • Member states are encouraged to mainstream scientific research in government policies on priority thematic areas such as protection of endangered species, alternative livelihoods, integrated modelling and global change.

4. Recommendations of the “Strategic Meeting of Asia and the Pacific Biosphere Reserve Networks in Shaping the Future We Want for All Hanoi, Vietnam 21-26 April 2013” Action for Post 2015 Agenda • Asia-Pacific MAB networks should link with policy and decision making processes (especially for shaping and delivering post 2015 agenda) to promote best sustainable development practices for institutional cooperation and links between different levels of political, economic and scientific decision making at the local, national and regional levels. • Local and country level data gathering, baseline studies and synthesis of experiences is recommended to become part of Millennium Ecosystem Assessment Process. • Document best practices across the region on the conservation based economies leading to better shaping of the post-2015 agenda. • Introduce and implement zoning in all biosphere reserves to ensure biodiversity management in multi-use areas with the objective of sustainable development linked with local agenda 21 plans. Periodic review and evaluation should be aimed at better harmonization/interaction among different BR zones. • Sharing of best practices on public-private partnerships, tools for enhanced marketing/branding of local “quality” products needs be facilitated through regional cooperation mechanisms such as ASEAN and SARC.

5. Recommendations of the “Strategic Meeting of Asia and the Pacific Biosphere Reserve Networks in Shaping the Future We Want for All Hanoi, Vietnam 21-26 April 2013” Sustainability Science and linkages with other UNESCO programs • Sustainability science can provide cost effective and relevant solutions to complex interrelated challenges such as water, food and environmental security using biosphere reserves as part of a forward looking approach aimed at minimising negative externalities and maximising benefits to society to realise the future we want for all. • Synergize UNESCO actions in biosphere reserves, world heritage sites and international hydrological program’s ecohydrology demonstration project and Hydrology for Environment, Life and Policy river basins through cross-sectoral initiatives between UNESCO offices and member states.

6. Objectives of the Meeting • Bring the members of SeaBRnet together to share knowledge and experience on Biosphere Reserves from the Southeast Asian Region specially focusing on multilateral partnerships and Green Economy • Discuss the future activities of SeaBRnet to enhance the cooperation between BRs, and MAB national committees • Synthesize importance, relevance, added values and tangible services/benefits of MAB and WNBR. • Discuss how social-capital concept can help enhance community resilience in BRs • Assess progress being achieved in Palawan BR to accomplish its basic function and lead suggestions for future development based upon field visits

7. Expected Results • Recommendation on building partnership and activities for Green Economy in BR • Recommendation on the possible cooperation between BRs and MABNational Committees in South East Asia • Assessment and suggestion on Palawan BR management based on field visit and group discussion • A Strategy to implement social capital approach in selected BR

8. MAB - commitment to sustainable development through Green Growth Ideas determine not only framework for integration technologies with environmental potential and society needs but also identify potential areas for synergies for socio-enviro and economic benefits Solutions Technologies Methods IDEAS

9. Time for team work to take MAB to next level of delivery