Categorizing Types of Transition Areas in Biosphere Reserves: a Case Study of the Baekdudaegan Mountain Ranges in South Korea

Abstract

The biosphere reserves (BRs) of the UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) aim at the successful coexistence of humans and nature. The existing BRs have worked with local people to create culture landscapes and conserve natural resources. The ideal BR models for areas undergoing climate change are cities within nature, and the areas that can be designated as BRs have natural and cultural landscapes. BRs comprise three areas, the core, buffer, and transition, in order to efficiently perform three functions, which are conservation, development, and logistical support. A transition area is where people earn an income from local businesses while effectively preserving their natural surroundings. When this area has a role in meeting the communal goals of residents by providing local resources and landscapes, it is appropriately managed and maintained. In addition, local products produced in BRs, which UNESCO believes are generated in excellent ecosystems, can be sold under the BR brand, contributing to residents' incomes and local image. The Baekdudaegan mountain range (BDDG) is traditionally cherished as a symbol of the Korean peninsula and has enormous scientific value as an ecological repository. Additionally, the BDDG is considered a unique geographical recognition system referred to as sanjabunsuryung by the local area districts where Korean people have lived following a unique religious and historical culture. This study categorized types of transition areas in targeted areas with high potential for designation as a BR based on geographical characteristics. The developed index was supported by the Analytical Hierarchy Process method proposed by experts, and zoning of the BR was performed. Among the areas of the BR, the transition area was the focus of this study. This area was classified into three types, which were then subdivided. The watershed types were self-managed, neighborhood, and cooperative; the resident types were urban, relatively rural, and rural; and the local resources types were natural-scenery and historical-cultural. A management plan is suggested regarding administrative districts, an urban BR, and relationships to other protected areas in the BDDG. In conclusion, the transition area of the BR was recognized as urban via the categorization process, and management of the BDDG should take a long-term approach.