Historic recognition
Officially recognized as unique in the world, the Volcanoes and Forests of Montagne Pelée and the Pitons of northern Martinique are now listed as Unesco World Heritage Sites for their exceptional character, unique biodiversity and geology. The volcanic massifs and forests of northern Martinique are home to almost two-thirds of the island's native flora, including 30 of the island's 37 strict endemic species. Covering an area of 14,000 hectares, or 12% of Martinique's territory, this geological and forest complex is one of the best preserved in the Lesser Antilles, and is home to numerous endemic species. Martinique boasts the longest continuous stretch of forest from the sea to the volcanic peaks, a feature no longer found on other islands in the Lesser Antilles. With this recognition, Martinique is committed to promoting and preserving these wonders.
The island designated a Unesco Biosphere Reserve
By 2021, Martinique had already been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, in recognition of its exceptional biodiversity and its lifestyles and traditions in symbiosis with nature. The Martinique Réserve de Biosphère association has fought long and hard to gain recognition for the natural assets of "Madinina". This distinction enables Martinique to benefit from a zone of close protection for its unique qualities. Joining the Biosphere Reserve network opens new doors. From an ecological point of view, the island is already part of the network of Caribbean islands. The latter are working on common issues such as the scourge of sargassum, the repercussions of climate change, education for sustainable development, etc. They will therefore be able to pool their knowledge and share their experiences in this field, so as to further improve sustainable development practices. They will also be able to choose their areas of cooperation and link them to joint research programs, thereby gaining access to new funding for innovative projects. It's also a fantastic lever in terms of international reputation and influence, enabling Martinique to communicate with all the countries that have Biosphere Reserves.
The Man and Biosphere Program
The MAB(Man and Biosphere) program, created in 1971, is one of Unesco's most important programs. This cooperative approach has led to the creation of an international network of Biosphere Reserves (738 Biosphere Reserves in 134 countries), a regional network (15 Biosphere Reserves in Caribbean countries) and a national network (16 Biosphere Reserves, including 3 ultra-marine ones). Membership of these networks facilitates cooperation, exchanges and the promotion of positive experiences, best practices and know-how, as well as the dissemination of teaching materials. Biosphere Reserves are formidable libraries for demonstrations and achievements in all areas of sustainable development.
