Zoning Dehesas Biosphere Reserve of Sierra Morena, Andalusia

The figure of Biosphere Reserve is granted to spaces that have a natural and cultural richness representative of the different ecosystems of the globe. This award is awarded by UNESCO, within the framework of the MaB (Man and Biosphere) programme. The territory of a Biosphere Reserve is divided into three zones according to its level of protection: · The core zone: It is composed of ecosystems that are minimally disturbed and characteristic of a region of the world. A core area has safe legal protection, and it only allows non-destructive activities that do not adversely affect the natural processes of the ecosystem. This area should ensure the long-term protection of biodiversity in situ. · The Tapon Zone: It is understood by those spaces where only activities that contribute to the multiple objectives of the Reserve can be carried out. These activities correspond to scientific research, environmental education and training, as well as tourist activities, recreational activities, traditional land use and as a stable cultural area. · The transition zone: It is the farthest part of the core zone and is not demarcated, but it corresponds to a dynamic and always expansive zone of cooperation, where the work of the Biosphere Reserve is applied discreetly to the needs of the local communities of the region. Thus, the transition zone can contain settlements, fields, grasslands and forests, and it develops economic activities that are in harmony with the natural environment and with the Biosphere Reserve. The figure of Biosphere Reserve is granted to spaces that have a natural and cultural richness representative of the different ecosystems of the globe. This award is awarded by UNESCO, within the framework of the MaB (Man and Biosphere) programme. The territory of a Biosphere Reserve is divided into three zones according to its level of protection: · The core zone: It is composed of ecosystems that are minimally disturbed and characteristic of a region of the world. A core area has safe legal protection, and it only allows non-destructive activities that do not adversely affect the natural processes of the ecosystem. This area should ensure the long-term protection of biodiversity in situ. · The Tapon Zone: It is understood by those spaces where only activities that contribute to the multiple objectives of the Reserve can be carried out. These activities correspond to scientific research, environmental education and training, as well as tourist activities, recreational activities, traditional land use and as a stable cultural area. · The transition zone: It is the farthest part of the core zone and is not demarcated, but it corresponds to a dynamic and always expansive zone of cooperation, where the work of the Biosphere Reserve is applied discreetly to the needs of the local communities of the region. Thus, the transition zone can contain settlements, fields, grasslands and forests, and it develops economic activities that are in harmony with the natural environment and with the Biosphere Reserve.