Biosphere reserves are sites recognised under the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO’s) Man and the Biosphere (MaB) Program. One of the primary objectives of MaB is to achieve a sustainable balance between the goals of conserving biological diversity, promoting economic development, and maintaining associated cultural values. The Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere is one of 714 UNESCO-nominated sites located in 129 countries. Biospheres promote sustainable development based on local community efforts and sound science. They make ideal learning sites to test and demonstrate innovative approaches to sustainable development and innovative approaches to living and working in harmony with nature. The Foundation is custodian of the reserve and encourages commercial and community involvement to develop better ways to meet social and economic needs, while conserving natural processes and biodiversity. This is backed by research, monitoring, education and information exchange. Biosphere reserves include urban, industrial and agricultural areas as well as conservation reserves, and participation by landowners is voluntary. The Foundation has partnered with several major businesses and educational institutions in the region on improving water management to reduce pollution and consumption of resources. You can find more information on our projects here: https://www.biosphere.org.au/biosphere-projects/current-projects/water-stewardship/