Beijing and Hangzhou, China | 15–27 September 2025

Applications are now open for the Training Programme on Sustainable Development of World Mountain Biosphere Reserves, organized by UNESCO and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

This training aims to strengthen the capacities of researchers, managers, and officials engaged in the management and governance of mountain biosphere reserves. The programme will focus on biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management, sustainable development, and community engagement. Participants will take part in expert-led lectures, case studies, field visits, and peer-to-peer exchanges, and will be supported in developing tailored action plans for their home biosphere reserves.

The programme will take place in two phases:

• From 15 to 21 September, participants will be in Beijing for the technical and scientific training who need to arrive at Beijing on 14 September.
• From 22 to 27 September, the programme will continue in Hangzhou, where participants will also take part in the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves. Participants can leave China on 27 September.

Up to 30 participants will be selected for the training. Of these, 20 participants will receive full funding, including round-trip international airfare, accommodation, meals, and local transportation within China. Fully-funded participants should come from developing countries including Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Central and Eastern Europe.

All expenses will be covered for the 20 selected participants, including round-trip international airfare, accommodation, meals, and local transportation within China. Visa fees are not included.

The remaining 10 participants may join on a self-funded basis, covering their own travel and accommodation costs. Visa fees are not covered.

Application deadline: 20 June 2025

Apply here: Registration form

Important: All applicants must also register for the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves using the this link by 20 June 2025 – register here.

Once registered through the Indico platform, applicants will receive an official confirmation letter, which can be used for visa applications or other administrative travel procedures.

Applicants are required to send proof of registration for the Congress (e.g. screenshot or confirmation email) as part of their application.

View a detailed course description here.

For any questions, please contact:
Regarding training course,please contact : Wenlu Cheng – wlcheng@rcees.ac.cn
Regarding Hangzhou conference,please contact : Marcelo dos Anjos – m.blanco-dos-anjos@unesco.org

Photo by Ruslan Kaptsan on Unsplash.