Berlin (dpa) – Germany has another UNESCO biosphere reserve: the Drömling region between the federal states of Saxony-Anhalt and Lower Saxony has been recognised by UNESCO. The pristine cultivated landscape stretches along the former inner-German border – a region criss-crossed with countless watercourses, also known as the “land of a thousand ditches”. UNESCO biosphere reserves are intended to act as model regions for sustainable development; there are more than 700 of them worldwide.
“I am delighted that UNESCO is once again recognising a German biosphere reserve as a model area for sustainable development,” said Federal Environment Minister Steffi Lemke. The Drömling region is a unique natural and cultivated landscape. It is an important habitat for diverse animal and plant species and “last but not least, a beautiful recreation area for people”.
“With its recognition as a UNESCO biosphere reserve, the course has been set for its sustainable development in a way that does equal justice to people and nature,” explained the President of the German UNESCO Commission, Maria Böhmer. “The award will further underpin regional value creation, promoting nature-friendly tourism and sustainable agriculture.”