Pam Shaw- Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region

Zoe Compton- Canadian Commisson for UNESCO

Antonio Abreu- UNESCO

BLURB

Traditional Plant Workshop

Speaker(s): Geraldine Manson & Kim Recalma & Nancy Turner

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Context Matters: Exploring Differences in Transdisciplinary (TD) Education Needs Between Sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, and North America

Speaker(s): Dr. Heike Molitor & Franziska Rottig & Jana Gengelbach

Abstract: This session introduces the project Promoting African Student Researchers for Sustainable Development in UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, which strengthens transdisciplinary, practice-oriented research through training, networking, and knowledge exchange. Participants will share their understanding of transdisciplinarity and discuss how this can be reflected in a training program aimed at scientific, local, indigenous, and experiential knowledge for sustainability governance and biodiversity conservation. Through collaborative discussion, the workshop will identify success factors for implementing transdisciplinary learning and competency development and contribute to diverse perspectives from across the UNESCO MAB network worldwide.

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Growing Sustainable Food for Healthy Communities and Environment

Speaker(s): Cliff McCreedy & Rebecca Pollock

Abstract: Climate change and industrial farming are exacerbating soil loss and food insecurity. Community gardens and food outreach programs improve access to healthy, sustainably-grown foods, as demonstrated by three biosphere reserves in the U.S. and at Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gammii Biosphere in Ontario, Canada. Food outreach partnerships can support Indigenous food sovereignty and local growers working with rural and tribal communities. Workshop participants will discuss scaling of food system sustainability across the WNBR.

Past meets Future: Linking Culture of Remembrance in Nature Conservation

Speaker(s):  Sarah Schaper

Abstract: The workshop explores the connection between historical memory and ecological sustainability, using the Drömling Biosphere Reserve / Green Belt as a case study. Through interactive group work, participants will examine how political history and nature conservation influence one another and how the culture of remembrance can be used as a resource for environmental education, regional development, and social cohesion. The exchange among participants promotes innovative approaches to integrating history and nature conservation in biosphere reserves.

Mobile of Poľana Biosphere Reserve

Speaker(s): Vladimíra Fabriciusová & Lucia Miňová & Katarína Vitališová

Abstract: Mobile BR Polana- A BR for everyone and a BR that connects; This presentation highlights the results of a project based in international cooperation to work with youth and the public. It aims to inspire other BR’s through the sharing of results of educational programs based on authenticity, experience and natural and cultural values. It is made in cooperation with multiple European BRs and ultimately showcases creative and innovative ways of involving young people and experts in creating a living textbook about BR Poľana.

International cooperation in the service of environmental education: educational areas tool example

Speaker(s): Marie Perros & David Béland & Katja Bonnevier

Abstract: This presentation/workshop will explore different approaches to engaging children in local governance, with a focus on environmental education, nature conservation, and connections between humans and non-humans.

We hope that participants will leave with ideas for initiatives — already tested and replicable — to encourage children’s learning through participation. The objective is to demonstrate how tools and approaches adapted to local contexts can transform students relationship with nature and strengthen their role within the community.

The intention is to initiate a dialogue around an international cooperation project based on “educational areas” methodology to continue sharing knowledge, expertise, and best practices.

Interwoven futures & working together: Biosphere reserve coordination beyond (administrative) boundaries

Speaker(s): Friedericke Stakelbeck & Torsten Raab

Abstract: This workshop aims to share experiences from transboundary biosphere reserves. First, two case studies will be presented from the transboundary biosphere reserve Paltinate Forest Northern Vosges (Germany and France) and the intra-German Rhön Biosphere Reserve. This will be followed by a group discussion: What experiences have the participants had in involving stakeholders across borders to shape the future? What lessons have been learned from this? Finally, the results will be summarized.

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Along the Richelieu River: bringing communities together to protect nature

Speaker(s): Maëlle Brasselet & Mia Demoulin

Abstract: This presentation tells the story of a collaborative, place-based project that contributes to strengthening the resilience of ecosystems and riverside communities along the Richelieu River within the Mont-Saint-Hilaire Biosphere Region. It highlights the river’s role as a driver of collaboration among communities, organizations, and institutional partners to address conservation challenges and promote sustainable use.

Through a shared territorial approach, the presenters show how conservation comes to life: protecting and restoring natural areas, supporting science, and mobilizing youth and communities to care for the river together.

Co-creating coastal resilience indicators in the Long Point Biosphere Region

Speaker(s): Shaugn Coggins

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Rediscovering our Commons through Restoration: The Kespukwitk experience

Speaker(s): Nick Hill & David Sollows

Abstract: A Biosphere Region recognizes that landscapes are commons, places where human needs are in balance with ecosystem processes. We present two ecological restorations in Kespukwitk, Big Meadow Bog home of the Endangered Eastern Mountain Avens and Ponhook Lake, hot spot for the Coastal Plain Flora. In each case, restoration leads to a rediscovery of the commons, an appreciation of the interconnectedness of community and ecosystem health, a pride in place and optimism.