The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve “Biosphärenpark Wienerwald” (Vienna Woods) – a Long History of Conservation

Abstract

Due to its high diversity and the considerable number of rare and endangered species and habitats, the Wienerwald region (Vienna Woods) has been integrated into various protected area programmes (landscape conservation areas, nature conservation areas, natural monuments, nature parks as defined by national law, the Flora Fauna Habitat Directive of the European Union, including the nomination of large parts for the NATURA 2000 Network). The designation of the Wienerwald as a biosphere reserve within UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves provides an ideal framework for all ongoing conservation activities. The basic idea of biosphere reserves to link conservation with sustainable use is well suited to the specific situation of the Wienerwald and its extraordinary ecosystem.