About our Biosphere
At the heart of the Sunshine Coast Biosphere is a community of shared values, working together to live, work, learn and play sustainably towards a future we are proud of.
The Sunshine Coast Biosphere was designated in June 2022, internationally recognised as a member of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation).
While a Biosphere Reserve is non-statutory, meaning there is no legal requirement to change the way we live or do business, we have a responsibility to work towards creating a legacy for future generations.
Objectives (functions)
Map of our biosphere reserve
Situated in the sunning Sunshine Coast Local Government area, our biosphere reserve spans across the hinterland to the coast and out off the coast three nautical miles. Nestled within this beautiful landscape, our Biosphere encompasses diverse ecosystems.
Measuring our progress
As part of our commitment as a biosphere reserve, we need to measure our sustainability progress. These measurements are to inform a periodic review after 10 years which is required by UNESCO, with a five-year interim assessment report proposed.
Measuring our performance is critical to ensure we remain on track. By understanding our performance, we can collectively adapt and adjust management, actions and resources to improve sustainability in the region through implementation of our biosphere.
To assist in this measurement and reporting, a fit for purpose biosphere performance measurement framework has been developed. The framework establishes our baseline performance measurements and will assist to:
- determine the success of the biosphere in meeting its objectives and identified targets
- monitor progress of the biosphere and sustainability indicators over time
- demonstrate the benefits and identify opportunities and challenges.
The performance measurement framework was designed with consideration of the Sunshine Coast Biosphere aim and objectives and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Information and resources
- UNESCO Biosphere Nomination for the Sunshine Coast, Australia (PDF, 9629KB)
- Sunshine Coast Biosphere map
- Sunshine Coast biosphere aim and objectives fact sheet (PDF, 504KB)
- Sunshine Coast biosphere governance fact sheet (PDF, 504KB)
Learn more about the global network of UNESCO biosphere reserves.