St. Kitts and Nevis Shines at the UNESCO 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves

Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, September 29, 2025 (UNESCO National Commission) – The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis is pleased to announce its participation in the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves, held in Hangzhou, China from 22 – 26 September 2025. The Congress brings together global leaders, experts, and stakeholders to advance the conservation and sustainable development of biosphere reserves, accredited by UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Programme (MAB).

The Federation operates one such MAB at the St. Mary’s Biosphere Reserve, in Cayon, accredited since 2011.

Mrs. Telca Wallace, National Coordinator for the UNESCO St. Mary’s Biosphere Reserve, represented St. Kitts and Nevis at this important meeting that takes place once every ten years.

“The St. Mary’s Biosphere Reserve is a valuable asset for our nation, and we are committed to its conservation and sustainable development,” said Mrs. Wallace, as she delivered the national statement reporting on the progress made in enhancing the biodiversity credentials of the St. Mary’s Biosphere Reserve over the last ten years.

“With the support of the Man and Biosphere Programme at UNESCO HQ in Paris and other UNESCO partners, we can continue to strengthen our efforts and ensure the long-term protection of this unique ecosystem,” she continued. “We stand resolute in our commitment to this process …With corrective measures underway, to legally protect the reserve and embark on an ambitious management plan, we are confident that the St. Mary’s Biosphere Reserve will continue to serve as a test case and learning centre of excellence —not only for the English-speaking Caribbean but also as an inspiration to the global small island developing community.”

The Congress agenda included sessions on biodiversity, science, and education; optimizing partnership and finance for biosphere reserves; enhancing global, regional, and thematic networks; and biosphere reserve dialogue. The event provided a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation in biosphere reserve management.

Some of the key highlights included:

· A Ministerial Session where High-level representatives from countries such as Iran, São Tomé and Príncipe, Armenia, and South Africa shared their experiences and perspectives on biosphere reserve management.

· Thematic Sessions where discussions focused on topics such as biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and innovative financing solutions for biosphere reserves.

· Networking Opportunities: The Congress provided a platform for biosphere reserve managers, researchers, and policymakers to share knowledge, expertise, and best practices.

The 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves is a significant event that highlights the importance of biosphere reserves in promoting sustainable development and biodiversity conservation,” stated H.E. Nerys Dockery, Secretary General of the UNESCO National Commission. “St. Kitts and Nevis, seized on the opportunity to showcase the St. Mary’s Biosphere Reserve as a model and success story of what can be achieved when community meets sustainability and when people and nature thrive in harmony. Sincere thanks are extended to Mrs. Telca Wallace for making the journey and her fine representation. Our appreciation is also extended to the Ministry of Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment for their tangible support for our representation in China.”

Ambassador David Doyle, Permanent Representative of St. Kitts and Nevis to UNESCO stated that “The SMBR is one of the most active biosphere reserves in the English-speaking Caribbean, which has benefited massively from UNESCO-funded activities and advice over the past 14 years. One notable achievement at the SMBR was the implementation in 2023 of the Earth Network initiative, funded by the Government of Italy. This Initiative will kick-start a series of biodiversity-strengthening agricultural projects, such as community seed banks with varieties more resistant to heat and drought, greenhouse cultivation of indigenous fruit, and innovative rainwater harvesting”.

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