Protected areas are clearly defined geographical spaces, recognised, dedicated and managed, through legal or other effective means, to achieve the long term conservation of nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values (IUCN Definition 2008). The designation and effective management of protected areas is a key instrument for protecting habitats and biodiversity.
In order to ensure that the protected areas are internationally comparable, IUCN has defined 6 protection categories. The classification of areas into these categories is based on their respective management objectives. Beyond that, there are further national and international protected area concepts. NABU supports the creation, establishment and effective management of protected areas as part of our international activities, not exclusively but with special emphasis to UNESCO biosphere reserves, which are characterised by both integrative and segregative approaches.
NABU has been supporting the set-up and/or management of four biosphere reserves in Ethiopia (Kafa Biosphere Reserve, Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve , Yayu Coffee Forest Biosphere Reserve , Sheka Forest Biosphere Reserve) and is supporting the unique sites with large scale conservation projects.
By capacitating coffee farmers for better yields and climate resilience, supporting local communities with forest-oriented income and sustaining the biosphere reserve and its ecosystems, we aim to maintain the unique forests of Yayu Biosphe Reserve. more →
The protected area Mahavavy-Kinkony in Madagascar suffers from degradation of its coastal ecosystems. NABU and ASITY Madagascar joined forces supporting communities for restoring ecosystems, improving livelihoods and responding to the impacts of climate change. more →
The marine biodiversity of the Coral Triangle is threatened by overfishing and habitat degradation. We support coastal communities of the Banggai Islands to secure their livelihoods through sustainable fishing practices in line with the Marine Protected Area. more →
Kafa Biosphere Reserve is challenged by the lack of sustainable employment and innovation for green development and adaptation to the impacts of climate change. The consortium aims at structuring the up to now non-commercialised garden coffee value chain. more →
The largest lake in Ethiopia, Lake Tana, is a source of life for 4 million people in the region. Over the course of the last decade, however, the consequences of increased industrialization and development have been posing a threat to this vital water supply. more →
NABU and BirdLife International have joined to implement the AfriBiRds project that will support African biosphere reserves in establishing an effective long-term monitoring and raise the awareness on birds’ conservation. more →
NABU working in close cooperation with the Ethiopian government, the Michael Succow Foundation, many other local partners and organisations as well as with local communities, is supporting the protection of the unique environment around Lake Tana and promoting sustainable development in the region. more →
Biosphere reserves are natural or cultural landscapes recognised by UNESCO as model regions for sustainable development. They balance conservation and land-use interests, as humans depend on intact ecosystems and their services. more →
Offshore wind energy is a vital part of the energy transition. By 2045, its capacity is expected to increase ninefold in German waters. But where to place all the wind farms? A NABU study shows how to choose sites that are compatible with nature conservation. more →
The ecology of the Baltic Sea is in bad shape, as typical habitats are under threat or have already completely disappeared. According to the current plans, Nord Stream 2 will pass through five protected areas, despite there being no urgent need for an increased gas supply. more →
