The event reaffirms the exceptional role of the Cat Ba Archipelago in global nature conservation while generating new impetus for sustainable economic development.

On September 27, at the 37th session of the International Co-ordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB-ICC) Programme, the Cat Ba Archipelago (Hai Phong, Vietnam) was officially re-confirmed as a World Biosphere Reserve following its second 10-year periodic review (2014–2024). This pivotal milestone reflects UNESCO’s recognition of the relentless efforts in management, conservation, and sustainable development at Cat Ba.

(The moment the MAB-ICC Secretariat announced that the Cat Ba Archipelago successfully met the criteria for World Biosphere Reserve status. Photo: Courtesy of the delegation)

The UNESCO International Advisory Committee highly appraised the operational performance of the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve. Management efforts have been implemented synchronously, with broad participation from diverse stakeholders. The management practices and operations of the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve are considered valuable reference examples for other biosphere reserves in the Northwest Pacific region.

Nature conservation associated with development

Notably, Cat Ba is the sole habitat in the world for the Cat Ba Langur (Trachypithecus poliocephalus). The conservation project for this rare primate, coordinated by Cat Ba National Park since 2000, has yielded encouraging outcomes: the population has risen from approximately 40 individuals to 76 as of 2023. This stands as a prime testament to the perseverance and efficacy of long-term conservation efforts.

(Delegates from the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO, MAB Vietnam, and the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve Management Board at the Congress. Photo: Courtesy of the delegation)

Parallel to conservation efforts, the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve (BR) has implemented numerous high-quality economic development projects. Ecotourism, biosphere-labeled services, and a volunteer-run sustainable development fund have created strong momentum for the local community. This model not only provides sustainable livelihoods but also encourages residents to participate directly in conservation activities.

Over the past decade, the population within the buffer and transition zones has grown rapidly, from 5,510 in 2010 to 18,410 in 2021. While this population pressure necessitates stricter management and conservation requirements, it also drives the need for innovative development methods toward a green economy model. Notably, in 2023, Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago was inscribed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site—an extension of the Ha Long Bay site—further elevating Cat Ba’s status on the global heritage map.

A Source of Pride and New Impetus

Speaking at the congress, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Van Hien – Chairman of the Vietnam National Committee for the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme – remarked: ‘The Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve serves as a vivid testament to the dedicated efforts of local authorities, the management board, and the local community in pursuing socio-economic development in tandem with nature conservation.

The fact that the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve—one of Vietnam’s 11 biosphere reserves—has successfully retained its UNESCO designation following a rigorous review process will provide new impetus and a ripple effect for other biosphere reserves across the country. This success encourages them to fulfill their commitments and implement synchronized management solutions to optimize the three core functions of a biosphere reserve: conservation, development, and logistics support for the community.

(Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Van Hien – Chairman of MAB Vietnam, addressing the Congress. Photo: Courtesy of the delegation)

He also emphasized that throughout the dossier preparation process, MAB Vietnam collaborated closely with the Management Board, consulting units, Hai Phong City leadership, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and other relevant stakeholders. This extensive coordination ensured that the evaluation dossier was of the highest quality, submitted on time, and strictly adhered to international regulations.

Representing the Biosphere Reserve Management Board, Mr. Nguyen Van Thiu – Director of Cat Ba National Park – stated: ‘Today’s event is a tremendous honor. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO, the MAB Vietnam Committee, the leadership of Hai Phong City, non-governmental organizations, scientists, and the local community. Your partnership and support have been instrumental in enabling Cat Ba to effectively fulfill its core functions of conservation, development, and logistic support”.

Looking ahead, he expressed his hope that the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve will continue to receive the attention and support of authorities at all levels, various sectors, and international organizations. This continued commitment is vital to ensuring that Cat Ba remains an exemplary model for nature conservation and sustainable development practices.

Connecting the Past, Present, and Future

With its exceptional and unique values, Cat Ba is not only a source of pride for Hai Phong and Vietnam but also a shared heritage of humanity. UNESCO’s re-confirmation of this status demonstrates that Cat Ba has successfully met the stringent criteria of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Furthermore, the boundary adjustments and the expansion of the buffer and transition zones in 2023 reflect a flexible adaptation strategy, ensuring a balance between strict conservation and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods for the local community.

(The moment the MAB-ICC Secretariat announced that the Cat Ba Archipelago successfully met the criteria for World Biosphere Reserve status. Photo: Courtesy of the delegation)

Looking to the future, Cat Ba continues to assert its status as a ‘living laboratory’ of humanity for sustainable development—a hub for initiatives in biodiversity conservation, resource management, and the development of high-quality economic models. This conveys a powerful message regarding Vietnam’s commitment to integrating conservation with development, while making active contributions to the shared goals of UNESCO and the global community.

Source: “Agriculture and Environment Newspaper“