Andorra Submits Candidacy for Entire Country as UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

The Andorran government has officially submitted its candidacy to UNESCO to designate the entire country as a Biosphere Reserve under the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme. Minister of Environment, Agriculture and Livestock Guillem Casal described it as a national project initiated eight years ago, making Andorra the first country worldwide to propose such comprehensive coverage.

Casal noted that about 90% of Andorra's territory remains pristine, featuring lakes, mountains, ridges and peaks. The zoning structure includes core areas in natural parks, buffer zones to support ecological connectivity, and transition zones covering populated areas and economic activities. Prominent assets include the Sorteny and Comapedrosa natural parks, the Madriu-Perafita-Claror valley—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and mountain landscapes, alongside recent initiatives like the National Natural Park of the Canillo and Ordino valleys and the Pessons natural park project.

The submission follows resolution of past disagreements, particularly with Escaldes-Engordany parish. "Two years ago we couldn't find the coordination point, but before the end of this summer we found the fit," Casal said, crediting dialogue and mutual willingness. He confirmed ongoing communication with all parishes despite earlier frictions, viewing them as learning opportunities.

Casal clarified that biosphere reserve status would not impose new legal protections, create administration, generate expenses or alter existing institutional powers. Instead, it would promote awareness, shared public policies and coordination without binding force.

With documentation now at UNESCO, the process moves forward: review in October and November, evaluation starting in December, followed by an on-site expert visit that may request additional details before a final decision. The government sees this as enhancing Andorra's global standing in sustainability, quality of life and resource management, aligned with protecting 30% of territory while fostering balanced growth.