Consider the following statements about the structure and design of B...
Explanation:
The correct answer is option 'A' i.e., statements 1 and 2 are correct.
Statement 1:
A core zone secures legal protection and management, and research activities that do not affect natural processes and wildlife are allowed.
In Biosphere Reserves, a core zone is the central area that is given legal protection and management. It is typically undisturbed and represents the most pristine and ecologically sensitive ecosystems. The core zone is established to preserve natural processes and protect wildlife habitats. Human activities are restricted in this area to minimize disturbances. However, research activities that do not harm natural processes and wildlife are allowed in the core zone.
Statement 2:
A buffer zone adjoins or surrounds the core zone.
The buffer zone is the area that surrounds or adjoins the core zone. It acts as a transition zone between the core zone and the outermost zone, which is the multiple-use zone. The buffer zone usually has a less stringent level of protection compared to the core zone. It allows for limited human activities that are compatible with the conservation objectives of the Biosphere Reserve. The buffer zone helps to mitigate potential impacts from human activities in the surrounding areas and provides a buffer for the core zone.
Statement 3:
Settlements are not allowed in the transition zone, but croplands and managed forests are allowed.
The transition zone, also known as the multiple-use zone, is the outermost zone of a Biosphere Reserve. It is the area where human settlements, croplands, managed forests, and other sustainable land uses are allowed. However, the establishment of permanent settlements is generally not allowed in the transition zone to minimize the impact on the natural ecosystems and biodiversity. The transition zone promotes sustainable development practices and encourages the participation of local communities in the conservation and management of natural resources.
Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A' as both statements 1 and 2 are correct, but statement 3 is incorrect. Settlements are not allowed in the transition zone of a Biosphere Reserve.
Consider the following statements about the structure and design of B...
- Structure and design of Biosphere Reserves: In order to undertake complementary activities of biodiversity conservation and development of sustainable management aspects, Biosphere Reserves are demarcated into three inter-related zones.
- The Core Zone: The core zone should be kept absolutely undisturbed. It must contain suitable habitat for numerous plant and animal species, including higher-order predators and may contain centres of endemism. The core zone is to be kept free from all human pressures external to the system.
- The Buffer Zone: Buffer Zone adjoins or surrounds core zone. Its uses and activities are managed in ways that protect the core zone. Research and educational activities are to be encouraged. Human activities, if natural within BR, are likely to be permitted to continue if these do not adversely affect the ecological diversity.
- The Transition Zone: The Transition Zone is the outermost part of a Biosphere Reserve. This is usually not delimited one and is a zone of cooperation where conservation, knowledge and management skills are applied and uses are managed in harmony with the purpose of the Biosphere Reserve.