In a report for its local news, the public television channel France 3 covered the Communauté de communes Pays Haut Val d’Alzette (CCPHVA) project to gain recognition for its natural assets and join the global network of UNESCO biosphere reserves.
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© Minett UNESCO Biosphere
The origins of the project in Luxembourg and France:
In 2020, the “Minett UNESCO Biosphere” was created in Luxembourg. In response, the association Micheville à Ciel Ouvert began to explore the possibility of obtaining the same recognition for the neighbouring French territory, in particular the Espace Naturel Sensible de Micheville. Supported by the CCPHVA, this project is backed by a strong political will. This designation would put the spotlight on an area that represents nature’s reclaiming of former industrial sites, while at the same time being home to exceptional biodiversity. According to Sébastien Rehibi, this designation would boost local pride and enhance the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
The UNESCO-supported global network of biosphere reserves facilitates the exchange of ideas, solutions, best practices and expertise. It promotes cooperation, the sharing of experiences and the dissemination of educational resources. The network operates at different geographical scales and also supports conferences and training programmes.
Feasibility study:
The CCPHVA commissioned AGAPE to conduct a feasibility study, carried out by Clémence Blanckaert, a master’s student in the UNESCO MAB (Man and Biosphere) programme. This study aimed to
- Verify that the criteria for the designation of a biosphere reserve were met.
- Make an inventory of the natural heritage.
- Analyse current knowledge of the area.
- Define potential reserve boundaries.
- Involve the population and develop the project with local stakeholders.
Local participation:
A biosphere reserve depends on the active participation of the local population. Two participatory workshops were held in Villerupt and Boulange in June and July 2023 to introduce the concept and explore issues such as quality of life, cultural identity, landscape and environment. In addition, an online survey was conducted in 2023 to gather input and feedback from the community.
Next steps:
These efforts have laid the groundwork for a robust application for UNESCO Biosphere Reserve designation. Work is underway to finalise the classification of the identified core areas and complete the application dossier.
Once the designation is official, the North Lorraine Region and the Minett UNESCO Biosphere will be able to start the process of establishing a cross-border biosphere reserve.