Environmental Science (2+1)

Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB)

• MAB is the outcome of the experience of those involved in the International Biological Programme (IBP). It was realized that several problems require collaboration of natural and social scientists, planners and managers and the local people. MAB was conceived at the International Biosphere Conference of UNESCO in 1968 and was officially given shape by General Conference at its 16th Session in 1970. The programme was formally launched by UNESCO in November 1971, when the MAB International Coordinating Council held its first session and identified 13 project areas of cooperative research. One more project area was added in 1974.