UNESCO Biosphere Application

Our journey to biosphere status began with extensive research and listening to local voices. Early studies looked at the Forest’s natural environment, cultural heritage, and economic potential. Surveys such as The Forest We Want showed strong public support, with more than 90% of respondents agreeing with the main aims of biospheres: protecting nature, supporting a sustainable economy, and creating learning opportunities.

The application process has several stages. First, we gather evidence and consult widely with residents, landowners, businesses and community organisations. Next, we define the proposed biosphere boundaries, including core areas (for conservation), buffer zones (for compatible activities), and transition zones (where communities and businesses thrive). We then prepare a nomination file for the UK Man and the Biosphere Committee, who review it before forwarding it to UNESCO for a final decision.

	National Forest Park (1938), Hobhouse report (1947) long standing debate on landscape protection ONS economic case study, Forest Economic Partnership
	‘The Forest We Want’ survey 600 responses and 40 business Glover Review – noted biosphere options Formation of Biosphere Action Group (Later Biosphere Steering Group)
	District council supports further investigation UNESCO UK Man and Biosphere Committee awards candidate status
	District council unanimously supports application to UNESCO Stakeholder conference Partners support including GCC, Hartpury University & the tourism association Primary school poster competition Town & parish council survey letter Verderers Court & Freeminers engagement
	Engagement with Commoners Association Forest Future Story engagement programme Household leaflet Briefings to groups, parish councils & district councillors Formal UNESCO submission nomination form drafted
	Submission of final draft to UK Man and Biosphere* (MAB) *subject to decision to submit
	Formal UNESCO final draft submission nomination form sent to UK Man and Biosphere (MAB)
	UNESCO consideration

The council is working closely with partners such as the Environment Agency, Forestry England, universities, and local groups to shape the proposal. Our timeline anticipates submitting a nomination in September 2027. If successful, implementation will involve setting up governance structures, securing funding, and launching projects that benefit both people and nature.

At every stage we will share progress openly and invite you to have your say. This is a community-led journey and the Forest’s future will be shaped by the people who live, work, and visit here.

Application stages:

Exploration - Surveys, studies, initial consultation (completed)
Consultation - Events, workshops, public feedback (underway)
Nomination File - Formal UNESCO submission nomination form drafted (spring 2026)
Submission -

Submission of final draft to UK Man and Biosphere (MAB) (spring 2027)*

Formal UNESCO final draft submission nomination form sent to UK Man and Biosphere (MAB) (spring/summer 2027)

UNESCO consideration - (September 2027 onwards)
Implementation (if successful) – Governance, projects, monitoring (spring 2028 onwards)

*subject to decision to submit

UNESCO Biosphere Application

Further reading on the emerging biosphere proposal

Related Pages