The Italian site of Tepilora, Rio Posada and Montalbo, which is located on the island of Sardinia, has been nominated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
During the 29th session of the International Coordination Committee of the MAB programme which is taking place in Paris, the Committee approved the Italian Reserve into the World Network of Biosphere Reserves of UNESCO.
The ceremony was attended by a delegation of representatives of the Italian Ministry of Environment and local authorities, led by the regional counsellor for the environment, Donatella Spano,. Italy’s permanent Delegate, Amb. Vincenza Lomonaco, underlined the importance of this nomination, which bears testimony to the Italian Government’s engagement in favour of the environment and of sustainable development.
Tepilora, Rio Posada and Montalvo is the 15th Reserve in Italy and the first on one of its major islands (Sardinia is, in fact, one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean sea). It is characterised by a rich environment, ranging from sea to mountains. It stands out in the Mediterranean as an example of good balance between mankind (whose presence is known of since the Neolithic Era), who has shaped its natural and cultural landscapes over the centuries, and the biosphere.
The Reserve comprises 17 municipalities, between the provinces of Olbia-Tempio and Nuoro. It has a resident population of 50 000 inhabitants, which are multiplied fivefold during the summer break. Man’s presence on the island, which is characterized by its harmonic relationship with the landscape and the respect of local cultures and traditions, is a key feature of this environment. An active conservation stance has, in fact, made it possible for the landscape to be built while preserving biodiversity and the ecosystems.
