Phong Nha - Ke Bang nominated as a UNESCO biosphere reserve

The park held a meeting with the Department of Nature Conservation and Biodiversity (Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment), along with relevant departments and agencies, to discuss the preparation of a nomination dossier for the Phong Nha - Ke Bang Biosphere Reserve, which will be submitted for assessment and approval by the authorities.

According to the proposal, the survey area for the Phong Nha - Ke Bang UNESCO Biosphere Reserve spans over 484,300 hectares, with a population of more than 133,600 people. The core zone of the biosphere reserve aligns with the core zone of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park and the heritage site of the park. This zone encompasses two districts and seven communes/townships for a total area of over 123,300 hectares.

Similarly, the buffer zone of the Biosphere Reserve follows the boundaries of the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park’s buffer zone. This zone encompasses three districts and 13 communes/townships for a total area of approximately 220,000 hectares. The transition zone encompasses six districts/townships and 18 communes/townships for a total area of approximately 141,000 hectares.

According to Dinh Huy Tri, Deputy Director of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, there are currently 738 biosphere reserves in 134 countries worldwide, including 22 transboundary biosphere reserves. Vietnam currently houses 11 recognized biosphere reserves. The recognition of Phong Nha - Ke Bang as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve will contribute to the conservation of diverse landscapes, ecosystems, species, and genetic resources. It will also promote sustainable economic, cultural, and human development in terms of cultural, social, and ecological aspects.

"The Phong Nha - Ke Bang Biosphere Reserve will support demonstration programs, educational activities, and environmental training, as well as research and monitoring related to conservation and sustainable development at local, national, and global levels," added Deputy Director Tri.