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Interconnected Nature and People: Biosphere Reserves and the Power of Memory and Oral Histories as Biocultural Heritage for a Sustainable Future

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  • Maria Fernanda Rollo

    (Centre for Functional Ecology—Science for People & the Planet (CFE), University of Coimbra History, Territories and Communities, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, NOVA University of Lisbon, Associate Laboratory TERRA, 1069-061 Lisbon, Portugal)

Abstract

Biosphere Reserves (BRs) represent dynamic spaces where the interdependence between nature and people is actively shaped and preserved. These territories serve as living laboratories for sustainable development, blending conservation efforts with local knowledge and cultural traditions. This paper explores how BRs exemplify the interconnection between ecological resilience and biocultural heritage, demonstrating the value of integrating traditional practices into contemporary sustainability frameworks. Using insights from the Memories of Biosphere Reserves project, which has collected over 370 testimonies from Portugal, Brazil, and São Tomé e Príncipe, this study highlights the role of memory and storytelling in reinforcing socio-ecological resilience and informing participatory conservation governance. By documenting personal experiences, traditional land-use practices, and community perceptions, these testimonies foster empathy, intergenerational learning, and ethical engagement with the environment. They also provide crucial knowledge for environmental stewardship and community-driven sustainability strategies. The article further examines the transformative role of digital technologies, open science, and artificial intelligence in preserving and disseminating biocultural heritage. Through georeferenced digital archives and participatory research, communities safeguard their cultural and ecological heritage, ensuring knowledge transmission across generations. By positioning BRs as models for integrated conservation and development, this paper underscores the importance of interconnected socio-ecological systems in achieving sustainability goals. The findings suggest that valuing and preserving biocultural heritage within BRs not only strengthens community identity and resilience, but also provides actionable pathways for addressing contemporary environmental challenges.

Suggested Citation

  • Maria Fernanda Rollo, 2025. "Interconnected Nature and People: Biosphere Reserves and the Power of Memory and Oral Histories as Biocultural Heritage for a Sustainable Future," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(9), pages 1-33, April.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:9:p:4030-:d:1646173
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Harsh Vardhan Bhati & Yaffa Epstein, 2023. "Protection of Biocultural Heritage in the Anthropocene: Towards Reconciling Natural, Cultural, Tangible and Intangible Heritage," Journal of Environmental Law, Oxford University Press, vol. 35(3), pages 353-375.
    2. Anneli Ekblom & Anna Shoemaker & Lindsey Gillson & Paul Lane & Karl-Johan Lindholm, 2019. "Conservation through Biocultural Heritage—Examples from Sub-Saharan Africa," Land, MDPI, vol. 8(1), pages 1-15, January.
    3. Smith, Nigel J. H., 1999. "The Amazon River Forest: A Natural History of Plants, Animals, and People," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780195126839, Decembrie.
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    Cited by:

    1. Daniela Haluza & Gerald Wagner, 2025. "The Drifting Baseline Syndrome: A Novel Concept of Perceived Biodiversity Change," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-21, May.

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