Between nature and culture,UNESCO has been awarding labels and recognition for over 50 years, with Geoparks, Biosphere Reserves and World Heritage Sites. So many places to discover around the world. Presentation of the dedicated programmes of the world organisation and the places concerned by country.

The major role of UNESCO
UNESCO*, as the international organisation dedicated to preserving the world’s heritage, plays a crucial role in protecting our planet’s natural and cultural treasures.
Through several flagship programmes, such as World Heritage, the World Network of Biosphere Reserves and Geoparks, UNESCO aims to preserve and enhance sites of exceptional importance. Each of these programmes has specific objectives, from the conservation of historic monuments to the protection of fragile ecosystems and the promotion of geological treasures.

Biosphere reserves, Geoparks and UNESCO World Heritage sites
This article provides a parallel analysis of these three programmes, highlighting their objectives, selection criteria and impact, both locally and internationally. This exploration will provide a better understanding of how these initiatives contribute to the preservation of humanity’s common heritage while promoting sustainable development.
Programme context and objectives
The World Network of Biosphere Reserves, UNESCO World Heritage and UNESCO Geoparks share a common objective: to protect and enhance the natural and cultural resources of our planet.
However, each programme has its own specific approach, listing criteria and management objectives, reflecting the diversity of challenges and opportunities associated with World Heritage conservation.
World Network of Biosphere Reserves
The World Network of Biosphere Reserves, created in 1971 as part of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme, aims to reconcile biodiversity conservation with sustainable economic development. This unique programme emphasises the importance of integrating human activities into conservation efforts, rather than seeing them as opposing forces.
Biosphere reserves are areas designated to test and demonstrate approaches to the sustainable management of natural resources. They are structured into three interconnected zones:
- the central core, dedicated to the strict protection of biodiversity;
- The buffer zone, where ecologically sustainable research, education and tourism activities can take place;
- The transition zone, where environmentally-friendly economic and human practices are encouraged.
The aim of biosphere reserves is threefold:
- Conserving ecosystems, landscapes and biodiversity;
- Promoting sustainable economic development that respects natural resources;
- Supporting research, monitoring and education to improve understanding of the interactions between man and nature.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
UNESCO’s World Heritage programme has its origins in the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, adopted in 1972. This international initiative was designed to identify, protect and preserve sites of outstanding universal value to humanity. The main objective is to recognise the cultural and natural treasures that illustrate the common heritage of humankind.
UNESCO’s World Heritage sites fall into three main categories:
- Cultural sites;
- Natural sites;
- Mixed sites, which have both outstanding cultural and natural values.
Cultural sites include monuments, groups of buildings and sites of historical, artistic or scientific importance.
Natural sites include physical and biological formations, geological and physiographical areas, as well as habitats for threatened animal and plant species.
Recognition as a World Heritage Site confers increased protection on the sites concerned, as the States involved, with the help of UNESCO, undertake to conserve these places for future generations. Listed sites can benefit from international technical and financial assistance for their conservation and restoration. However, this recognition also implies significant responsibilities in terms of management and protection.
UNESCO Geoparks
The UNESCO Global Geoparks initiative was launched in 2004. Unlike previous programmes, Geoparks focus on integrated landscape management, exploiting the geological wealth of an area to promote education, conservation and sustainable economic development.
A Geopark is an area with clear geographical boundaries containing geological heritage of international importance. Geoparks do more than just protect geological sites; they also seek to raise awareness of the importance of the geosciences among local people and visitors. They promote geotourism and educational initiatives while encouraging sustainable economic development in local communities.
Geoparks operate on the basis of integrated management involving local communities. This participatory approach ensures that conservation and development initiatives directly benefit local people, strengthening their cultural identity and supporting the local economy.

Registration and selection criteria
The criteria for listing and selecting sites for biosphere reserves, UNESCO World Heritage sites and Geoparks reflect the specific objectives of each programme.
Biosphere reserves aim to reconcile biodiversity conservation and sustainable development through integrated management. World Heritage focuses on the recognition of cultural and natural sites of outstanding universal importance. Geoparks focus on promoting geological heritage through education and sustainable economic development.
Together, these programmes offer a global and diversified approach to the protection and enhancement of the world’s natural and cultural resources.
World Network of Biosphere Reserves
The criteria for listing biosphere reserves are based on ecological principles and integrated land management. To be designated a biosphere reserve, a site must have representative ecosystems and significant biodiversity. It must also demonstrate a capacity to reconcile conservation and sustainable development, while promoting scientific research, education and training.
A biosphere reserve is structured into three interdependent zones:
- The core;
- The buffer zone;
- The transition zone.
The central core is strictly protected and dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity. The buffer zone surrounds the core and allows ecologically sustainable activities such as scientific research, environmental education and responsible tourism. The transition zone is the outermost zone and is home to economic and human activities that are compatible with conservation objectives, such as sustainable agriculture and the rational use of natural resources.
Biosphere reserves must demonstrate participatory management involving local communities and stakeholders. This approach ensures that conservation and sustainable development objectives are integrated into the daily practices of local people.
For example, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Biosphere Reserve in Colombia incorporates traditional land management practices by local indigenous communities.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List is a rigorous process based on a series of well-defined criteria. These criteria are grouped into three main categories, each with its own specific characteristics:
- Cultural criteria;
- Natural criteria;
- Mixed criteria.
Cultural sites must meet at least one of the six criteria in this category. These criteria include the site being :
- The representation of a masterpiece of human creative genius;
- A significant exchange of influences,
- The unique or exceptional demonstration of a cultural tradition or civilisation, living or extinct.
- The site offers an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape;
- A prime example of a traditional human settlement or land use;
- Associated with events, living traditions, ideas or beliefs of outstanding universal significance.
Natural sites must meet at least one of the four natural criteria:
- Representation of natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty
- Illustrating the major stages in the Earth’s history
- Significant geological processes
- Natural habitats that are important for conserving biodiversity.
For example, Yellowstone National Park in the United States is listed for its unique geothermal features and rich biodiversity.
Mixed sites meet both cultural and natural criteria.
An example of a mixed site is Machu Picchu in Peru, which has cultural value as an Inca citadel and natural value due to its location in an exceptional high mountain ecosystem.
To find out more about the World Heritage Convention and programme, visit the dedicated page:

UNESCO Geoparks
The criteria for UNESCO Global Geoparks focus on the enhancement and management of geological heritage. A geopark must have geological sites of international importance, reflecting significant geological processes, events or features in the Earth’s history. These sites must offer opportunities for education and scientific research.
Geoparks must also demonstrate integrated and sustainable management, involving local communities in the protection and enhancement of geological resources. Management must promote geotourism, education and sustainable economic development, while protecting the geological and environmental integrity of the sites.
Involving local communities is a key element, as it helps to strengthen cultural identity and ensure that the economic benefits of geotourism accrue directly to local people.
For example, the Haute-Provence Geopark in France is an area where geological riches are used to promote educational and sustainable tourism, actively involving residents in the management and promotion of the site.

Management and conservation
The management and conservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks illustrate the different approaches and strategies used to protect and enhance natural and cultural resources.
Each programme implements methods tailored to its specific objectives, involving rigorous management plans, the participation of local communities and collaboration with international experts.
Together, these initiatives contribute to the preservation of our world heritage and to sustainable development, while tackling the complex challenges posed by modernity and environmental pressures.
World Network of Biosphere Reserves
Biosphere reserves are managed using an integrated approach that combines biodiversity conservation, sustainable economic development and scientific research. Each biosphere reserve is structured into three distinct zones: the core area, the buffer zone and the transition zone, allowing management to be differentiated and adapted to the specific needs of each zone.
The central core, where conservation is a priority, is strictly protected to preserve biodiversity and ecological processes. The buffer zone, which surrounds the core, allows for research, education and sustainable tourism activities. Finally, the transition zone is dedicated to economic and social activities compatible with conservation objectives, such as sustainable agriculture, ecotourism and local crafts.
Biosphere reserves are managed by multi-stakeholder management committees that include representatives of local communities, scientists, local authorities and non-governmental organisations. This participatory governance ensures that management decisions reflect the needs and aspirations of local communities, while respecting conservation and sustainable development objectives.
For example, the Manicouagan-Uapishka Biosphere Reserve in Canada involves indigenous communities in the management of natural resources, integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation practices. This collaboration makes it possible to develop innovative management strategies that promote ecological resilience and economic prosperity.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The management of UNESCO World Heritage sites is based on a collaborative process involving the States Parties, UNESCO and various local and international stakeholders. When a site is inscribed on the World Heritage List, the State Party submits a detailed management plan defining the protection and conservation measures to be implemented. These plans include strategies for maintaining the integrity and authenticity of the site, as well as monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.
UNESCO plays a coordinating and supporting role, providing technical advice and, in some cases, financial assistance for the conservation of endangered sites. Local management committees are often set up to oversee conservation activities, ensure the participation of local communities and facilitate cooperation between the various stakeholders.
The challenges of managing World Heritage sites are numerous. Over-visitation by tourists can lead to the degradation of natural and cultural resources, while the pressures of urban and industrial development can threaten the integrity of sites. For example, the authorities of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania have to balance biodiversity conservation with the needs of local communities and tourism activities.
World Heritage sites also have to cope with the effects of climate change, which can alter ecosystems and destabilise historic structures.
UNESCO Geoparks
UNESCO’s Global Geoparks adopt a management approach that focuses on the enhancement of geological heritage and sustainable economic development. Each geopark must have a management plan that integrates the conservation of geological sites, the promotion of geotourism, environmental education and the participation of local communities.
Geoparks management is based on participatory governance, actively involving local residents in the planning and implementation of development initiatives. Local communities play a key role in protecting geological sites and promoting tourism and educational activities. This approach fosters the development of a strong cultural identity and strengthens the bond between local people and their environment.
Geoparks also encourage scientific research and education. They collaborate with universities and research institutions to conduct studies on geological processes and to develop educational programmes for schools and the general public. For example, the Haute-Provence Geopark in France organises geological excursions and educational workshops to raise awareness among visitors and residents of the importance of the Earth sciences.
Geoparks also face challenges such as preserving geological sites in a context of economic development and managing the impact of tourism. Management strategies must therefore be adaptive and innovative to ensure the long-term sustainability of geological and natural resources.

Economic and tourism impact
The economic and tourism impact of UNESCO World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks illustrates the diversity of approaches and benefits associated with each of these programmes. While World Heritage sites often attract large numbers of tourists and generate significant income, Biosphere Reserves and Geoparks focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly economic development, actively involving local communities.
Together, these initiatives contribute to the protection and enhancement of natural and cultural resources, while supporting the economic development of the regions concerned.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Inclusion of a site on UNESCO’s World Heritage List can transform it into a world-renowned tourist destination, generating significant economic spin-offs. This recognition attracts international visitors, researchers and investors, contributing to local and national economic growth.
The influx of tourists linked to World Heritage listing can have positive effects such as job creation in the tourism sector, increased income for local businesses and funding for conservation efforts. For example, the site of Petra in Jordan, inscribed in 1985, has seen a considerable increase in the number of visitors, boosting the local economy thanks to tourism.
However, the increase in tourist numbers also presents challenges. Over-visitation can lead to degradation of sites, jeopardising their cultural and environmental integrity. Local infrastructure can be put under strain, and natural resources can be over-exploited. Site managers therefore need to balance tourism promotion with resource conservation and protection.
The economic impact of World Heritage is often measured in terms of tourism revenue,jobs created and investment in infrastructure. Local and national authorities implement management strategies to maximise economic benefits while minimising negative impacts, such as visitor quotas, entrance fees and educational programmes to raise awareness of site conservation.
World Network of Biosphere Reserves
UNESCO biosphere reserves promote sustainable economic development by integrating biodiversity conservation with environmentally friendly economic activities. Ecotourism is an important economic pillar for many biosphere reserves, providing income opportunities while raising visitors’ awareness of the importance of conservation.
Ecotourism in biosphere reserves is characterised by activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, educational visits and homestays. These activities generate income for local communities and support conservation initiatives. For example, the La Sepultura Biosphere Reserve in Mexico attracts visitors interested in the region’s unique biodiversity and local conservation practices, stimulating the local economy while promoting conservation.
Economic development projects in biosphere reserves also include sustainable agriculture,crafts and natural resource management. These initiatives aim to improve the livelihoods of local communities while reducing the pressure on ecosystems. Partnerships with non-governmental organisations and international agencies help to fund sustainable projects and build local capacity in environmental management.
The economic impact of biosphere reserves is often measured by the diversification of income sources, poverty reduction and the improvement of local infrastructures. Training and education programmes play a key role in preparing local communities to take advantage of the economic opportunities offered by biosphere reserves.
UNESCO Geoparks
UNESCO’s Global Geoparks rely on geotourism to stimulate local economic development. Geotourism, which combines the exploration of geological sites with educational and cultural activities, attracts visitors interested in Earth sciences and natural history.
Themed tourism in Geoparks creates economic opportunities for local communities, notably through job creation, support for local businesses and the promotion of craft and food products. For example, the Beaujolais Geopark in France uses its geological wealth to attract tourists and promote local wines and produce, generating additional income for the region.
Geoparks also encourage the development of tourism infrastructure, such as hiking trails, visitor centres, museums and information panels. These infrastructures enhance the visitor experience and prolong their stay, thereby increasing local spending.
Education and awareness play a central role in Geoparks. Educational programmes, workshops and guided tours are organised to inform visitors and residents about the Earth sciences and the importance of conservation. These initiatives strengthen the link between local communities and their geological heritage, while generating income through educational activities.
Geoparks must also manage the environmental and cultural impacts of tourism. Sustainable management strategies, such as limiting visitor numbers, promoting environmentally friendly tourism practices and involving local communities in planning and management, are essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of Geoparks.

Socio-cultural and environmental impact
The socio-cultural and environmental impact of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks illustrates the diversity and richness of approaches to conservation and sustainable development. Each programme focuses on specific aspects of protecting and enhancing natural and cultural resources, actively involving local communities and promoting sustainable practices.
Together, these initiatives help to preserve our world heritage and promote harmonious, sustainable development in the face of today’s environmental and socio-cultural challenges.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
UNESCO World Heritage sites have a profound impact on local communities and society in general. These sites reinforce national and cultural pride by highlighting the importance of a country’s cultural and natural treasures. For example, the inscription of the Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls in 1981 reaffirmed the historical and religious importance of this site for its inhabitants and for pilgrims from all over the world.
World Heritage sites attract not only tourists, but also researchers, historians and curators, contributing to a better understanding and preservation of cultural traditions and historical practices. The presence of these experts also encourages the development of educational and awareness-raising programmes for local residents, enabling them to better understand and appreciate their own heritage.
However, World Heritage listing can also bring socio-cultural challenges. Increased tourism can lead to excessive commercialisation of local culture, turning living traditions into spectacles for visitors. This dynamic can alter cultural authenticity and cause tensions between the needs of local residents and the expectations of tourists. For example, at Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the massive influx of visitors has raised concerns about the preservation of the temples and the impact on the daily lives of the resident communities.
From an environmental point of view, World Heritage sites are often sensitive ecosystems that require rigorous protection measures. The management of these sites includes the implementation of sustainable practices to minimise the impact of visitors, such as regulating the number of tourists and establishing protected areas. For example, the Galapagos Islands, inscribed in 1978, are subject to strict regulations to protect the archipelago’s unique biodiversity from tourist and environmental pressures.
World Network of Biosphere Reserves
UNESCO biosphere reserves play a crucial role in preserving the natural environment and the well-being of local communities. By integrating biodiversity conservation with sustainable development, these protected areas create models of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.
Local communities are at the heart of biosphere reserve management. Their active involvement in decision-making and the implementation of conservation initiatives strengthens their commitment to preserving natural resources. For example, in the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve in Mexico, local people are involved in reforestation, sustainable agriculture and ecotourism projects, helping to conserve biodiversity while improving their livelihoods.
Biosphere reserves also encourage the transmission of traditional knowledge and cultural practices. Local knowledge of land management and natural resource conservation is integrated with modern scientific approaches, creating adaptive and innovative management strategies. This synergy between traditional and scientific knowledge is essential for the resilience of ecosystems in the face of climate change and human pressures.
In terms of environmental impact, biosphere reserves implement sustainable management practices that protect habitats and species. They play a crucial role in conserving biodiversity, restoring degraded ecosystems and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources. For example, the Sumaco Biosphere Reserve in Ecuador works to preserve tropical forests and promote agroforestry to protect habitats while supporting local communities.
UNESCO Geoparks
UNESCO’s Global Geoparks have a significant impact on local communities by enhancing geological heritage and promoting sustainable development. These areas demonstrate how geology can be used as a lever for education, tourism and conservation, while strengthening the cultural identity of local people.
Geoparks actively involve local communities in the management and development of geological resources. This involvement ensures that the economic benefits of geotourism accrue directly to local residents, while also raising awareness of the importance of the Earth sciences. For example, the Monts d’Ardèche Geopark in France (French) organises educational activities and workshops for local schools, raising awareness of geology and conservation among the younger generation.
Educational initiatives in Geoparks are not limited to residents. Visitors are also informed about the importance of geodiversity and environmental protection through museums, visitor centres and guided tours. These educational programmes contribute to a greater understanding and appreciation of geological processes and their impact on landscapes.
From an environmental point of view, Geoparks implement sustainable management practices to protect geological sites and minimise the negative impacts of tourism. Strategies include managing visitor flows, promoting environmentally-friendly tourism practices and restoring degraded sites. For example, the Haute-Provence Geopark in France uses sustainable management techniques to preserve the region’s fossil sites and unique geological formations.

Biosphere Reserves, Geoparks and World Heritage
Comparing UNESCO World Heritage, the World Network of Biosphere Reserves and UNESCO Geoparks highlights the diversity of strategies for protecting and enhancing our planet’s natural and cultural treasures. Each of these programmes plays a crucial role in meeting specific needs and using unique approaches to promote conservation and sustainable development.
UNESCO World Heritage focuses on the recognition and protection of sites of outstanding universal value, attracting tourists and researchers from all over the world while at the same time facing management challenges linked to over-frequentation and development pressures.
Biosphere Reserves, on the other hand, focus on integrated ecosystem management, actively involving local communities in sustainable development initiatives that support both biodiversity and livelihoods.
UNESCO Geoparks focus on promoting geological heritage through education and geotourism, encouraging greater awareness of the importance of the Earth sciences and active local participation.
These programmes, although distinct, share a common vision of preserving world heritage and promoting a sustainable future. International cooperation, the involvement of local communities and the integration of traditional and scientific knowledge are key to the success of these initiatives.
Together, they offer inspiring models for the sustainable management of natural and cultural resources, contributing to an enriched global heritage for future generations.
Maps of UNESCO listed sites
And for a global view of Biosphere Reserves, Geoparks and UNESCO World Heritage sites, here are the maps showing the location of the labelled sites.
Biosphere Reserves
Map of the international network of Biosphere Reserves :

UNESCO World Heritage
Map of cultural, natural and mixed World Heritage sites:

Global Geoparks
Map of Geoparks around the world :

And in France?
Biosphere reserves, Geoparks and World Heritage sites – these are just some of the remarkable sites in France.
UNESCO World Heritage in France
List of UNESCO cultural, natural and mixed sites in the region :
- Basilica and hill of Vézelay
- Chartres Cathedral
- Mont-Saint-Michel and its bay
- Palace and park of Versailles
- Prehistoric sites and decorated caves in the Vézère valley
- Cistercian Abbey of Fontenay
- Arles (French), Roman and Romanesque monuments
- Amiens Cathedral
- Palace and park of Fontainebleau
- The ancient theatre and its surroundings and the Arc de Triomphe d’Orange
- Grande saline of Salins-les-Bains and royal saltworks of Arc-et-Senans
- Abbey church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe
- Place Stanislas, Place de la Carrière and Place d’Alliance in Nancy
- Pont du Gard
- Strasbourg, Grande-Île and Neustadt
- Notre-Dame Cathedral, former Saint-Rémi Abbey and Tau Palace, Reims
- Paris, banks of the Seine
- Bourges Cathedral
- Historic centre of Avignon: Popes’ Palace, Episcopal complex and Pont d’Avignon
- Canal du Midi
- Mont Perdu in the Pyrenees
- Historic fortified town of Carcassonne
- The Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago de Compostela in France
- Historic site of Lyon
- Belfries of Belgium and France
- Jurisdiction of Saint-Émilion
- Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes
- Provins, a medieval fair town
- Le Havre, the city rebuilt by Auguste Perret
- Bordeaux, Port de la Lune
- Vauban fortifications
- Lagoons of New Caledonia
- Episcopal city of Albi
- Pitons, cirques and ramparts of Réunion Island
- The Causses and the Cévennes
- Prehistoric palaeolithic sites around the Alps
- Nord-Pas-de-Calais coalfield
- Ornate cave of Pont-d’Arc known as Grotte Chauvet, Ardèche
- Coteaux, Maisons et Caves de Champagne
- The Climats of the Burgundy vineyards
- The architectural work of Le Corbusier, a contribution to the Modern Movement
- Taputapuātea
- Tectonic high spot Chaîne des Puys, Limagne fault
- French Southern Territories and Seas
- Cordouan lighthouse
- Europe’s great water cities
- Nice, the city and the Riviera
- The Maison Carrée in Nîmes
- First World War funerary and memorial sites
- Volcanoes and forests of Montagne Pelée and the peaks of northern Martinique
- Te Henua Enata, Marquesas Islands
Biosphere reserves in France
Chronological list of Biosphere Reserves in mainland France and overseas :
- Camargue and Rhône delta (1977)
- Commune of Fakarava (1977)
- Fango Valley (1977)
- Cévennes (1984)
- Iles et Mer d’Iroise (1988)
- Vosges du Nord and Pfälzerwald (1988, cross-border with Germany)
- Mont Ventoux (1990)
- Archipelago of Guadeloupe (1992)
- Luberon-Lure(1997)
- Fontainebleau and Gâtinais (1998)
- Dordogne basin (2012)
- Audomarois Marshes (2013)
- Mont-Viso (2013, cross-border with Italy)
- Gorges du Gardon (2015)
Global Geoparks in France
List of the 9 Global Geoparks in the regions of France :
- Armorique Regional Nature Park (2024), at the tip of Finistère in Brittany
- Normandie-Maine Nature Park (2024), straddling the départements of Orne, Sarthe, Mayenne and Manche
- Beaujolais (2018), north-west of Lyon, between the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes (French) and Bourgogne-Franche-Comté (French) regions
- Causses du Quercy (2017), in the Lot department in the north of the Occitanie region (French)
- Monts d’Ardèche Regional Nature Park (2014), between Ardèche and Haute-Loire
- Chablais (2012), between Lake Geneva and the Mont Blanc massif in Haute-Savoie
- Massif des Bauges (2011), in the Savoie and Haute-Savoie regions
- Parc naturel régional du Lubéron (2004), in the departments of Vaucluse and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
- Haute-Provence (2000), between Provence and the Alps.
Heritage, nature and UNESCO
And to find out more about World Heritage, Geoparks and Biosphere Reserves managed by UNESCO, here are a few suggestions:
- What is UNESCO World Heritage?
- Presentation : Biosphere Reserves and Geoparks
- Maps of UNESCO sites around the world
- World Heritage map and list by country
- Latest related posts: UNESCO