Every 10 years, the World Network of Biosphere Reserves convene to identify priorities, strengthen collaboration and define a Global Action Plan for the future of UNESCO’s 750+ biosphere reserves across 136 countries.
Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation board member and Noosa Council representative, Cr Tom Wegener attended the 5th World Congress held in Hangzhou, China from 22-26 September 2025.
The 5th World Congress for Biosphere Reserves brought together 2000 stakeholders, scientists, policymakers and conservationists to discuss the World Network of Biosphere Reserves’ contributions to the global biodiversity and sustainable development agenda.
Together, biosphere reserves around the world align regional efforts with key international frameworks such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, and the International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development.
Connecting Noosa to a global network
The Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation’s attendance strengthened Noosa Shire’s significance as part of this international network of places recognised by UNESCO for achieving a balance between people and nature.
Cr Wegener convened with the World Network of Island and Coastal Biosphere Reserves (WNICBR) engaging in discussions on blue carbon and seagrass, tourism, and presented on the aligned values of surfing communities and biosphere reserves (a deep passion of his) using the Noosa Biosphere as a case study. Presentations highlighted the critical role biosphere reserves play in integrating science and testing new models of sustainable development in policymaking to achieve better biodiversity outcomes and global sustainability targets.
Biosphere reserves have a fundamental objective of fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and capacity building. Participation in the World Congress supports the Foundation’s enabling role as the ambassador for the Noosa Biosphere Reserve, bringing insights from other biosphere regions back to Noosa.
“Noosa’s designation in 2007 as a UNESCO biosphere reserve reflects a long-standing community commitment to caring for both people and planet,” said NBRF Chair, Fiona Berkin.
“Engaging directly in global dialogue and building relationships with colleagues in our biosphere reserve network helps our Noosa Biosphere to remain connected to best practice and world class.
Cr Tom Wegener presents at side event
During the Congress, Cr Wegener presented at a side event sharing his insights on how coastal communities around the world share UNESCO biosphere reserve values and can be relied on to support regional biosphere reserve goals. Cr Wegener is an internationally-recognised surfboard shaper, and has a background in environmental law and academia.
The webinar, Surf Culture and Coastal Futures – Collective Action Through Surfing Communities, explores the role of surf communities in ocean advocacy and sustainable coastal management. Wegener’s presentation highlighted how Noosa’s surfing heritage aligns with biosphere values of community, cultural resilience, and care for natural systems.
Watch the full webinar below:
Surf Culture and Coastal Futures – Future Earth Coasts Webinar 2025
Looking ahead
The 5th World Congress concluded with the development of a new MAB Strategic Action Plan (2026–2035), setting priorities for biosphere reserves worldwide over the next decade. Key areas include strengthening climate action, empowering youth and Indigenous leadership, and scaling up local innovations for global benefit.
For Noosa, the outcomes of the Congress reinforce the Foundation’s role as a local facilitator of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Program (MAB). The NBRF will continue to collaborate with researchers, local government and community partners to translate these insights into tangible outcomes for the UNESCO designated Noosa Biosphere Reserve.
Participation in the Congress ensures Noosa Shire, a nationally significant UNESCO biosphere reserve, remains part of this global network on sustainable futures – working toward a shared vision: people and nature thriving together.