Abstract
Recently, “biocultural diversity” has been advocated as a new form of regional revitalization, and the registration of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, a system that aims to promote regional development by utilizing natural resources while ensuring nature conservation, has become increasingly active over the past decade or so. However, it is not known whether the regional development policies correspond to the principles of Biosphere Reserves at the local level. In this study, we examined the philosophy of Biosphere Reserves using the plans of 10 areas in Japan with the aim of obtaining suggestions for regional development in mountainous areas. Next, we compared local government plans and applications by region and field to clarify the characteristics of regional development efforts. Finally, case studies were conducted to consider the effects and challenges of Biosphere Reserves on regional development.
