The Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) was launched in 1971 and is an intergovernmental scientific programme aimed at establishing a scientific basis for improving the relationship between humans and their environment.

MAB’s work is fully integrated with the international development agenda – in particular the Sustainable Development Goals – and addresses the challenges associated with scientific, environmental, social and development issues in a variety of ecosystems; from mountainous regions to marine, coastal and island regions; from tropical forests to drylands and urban areas.

MAB combines natural and social sciences, economics and education with the aim of improving human livelihoods and the equitable sharing of benefits and protecting natural and managed ecosystems, thereby promoting innovative approaches to economic development that is socially and culturally appropriate and environmentally sustainable.

The MAB programme provides a unique platform for collaboration for research, development, networking, exchange of information, knowledge and experience on three interrelated issues: biodiversity loss, climate change and sustainable development.

It contributes not only to a better understanding of the environment, but also promotes greater participation of scientists in policy development regarding the wise use of biological diversity, while increasing the economic and cultural development of the study area.