From a research vision to a state-of-the-art research strategy: UNESCO experts’ meeting in the Karst and River Reka Basin Biosphere Reserve

Abstract

UNESCO´s Lima Action Plan (LAP) explicitly calls on biosphere reserves (BRs) to build partnerships with universities and other research institutions to establish research, training and practical learning opportunities. For a BR, a research strategy is an essential framework that provides insights into the work carried out in the area, available data and needs for future research studies. It is the roadmap for adaptive management in a BR. It was therefore a major concern of the Karst and River Reka Basin BR (Škocjan, Slovenia) to develop a research strategy for the greater integration of science and research in the BR in a highly participatory process and with the support of international experts. Scientists, researchers and BR managers from eight countries shared their knowledge and experiences during a 3-day meeting in Škocjan (Slovenia), 23 to 25 October 2019. The importance of research in BRs, proper data management, involvement of local communities for monitoring and research, partnership and education were presented in case studies.