Portrait

You would be hard pressed to name any other region in Switzerland with as many natural treasures as the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch. Here you will find Switzerland’s largest and most numerous moor landscapes and striking karst terrain as well as flora and fauna of national and international importance. As a living model region, we represent the interests of many parties – from business and society to tourism, commerce, science and education. The UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch is a blessing for all. Traditional yet modern, it has local roots but a national network; it takes its role seriously, yet eschews excessive worthiness. We take fresh approaches, try new things and make them a reality; we enthuse, inform and influence, always doing the best we can for Entlebuch.

 

7  communities

The Biosphere Entlebuch is a municipal association made up of Doppleschwand, Entlebuch, Escholzmatt-Marbach, Flühli, Hasle, Romoos and Schüpfheim.

17000

people live within the Biosphere Entlebuch.

396  km2

The surface area of the Biosphere Entlebuch.

150

national protected areas

500

priority species

2350  metres

highest point above sea level

The beginning

  • 1987

    Adoption of Rothenthurm initiative, moorland placed under protection.

  • 1987

    Huge resistance encountered initially as Entlebuch has over 100 moors, which are regarded as obstacles to development. Over the course of many discussions, it is accepted that moorland can also represent an opportunity for development.

  • 1998

    Establishment of regional management with the aim of gaining UNESCO recognition for Entlebuch as a biosphere reserve.

  • 2000

    Voting takes place at community meetings and the Biosphere Entlebuch is founded through a direct democratic process.

  • 2001

    Governing council and Federal Council attain UNESCO recognition as Switzerland’s first biosphere through the Sevilla Strategy.

  • 2008

    Double recognition is achieved, this time as Switzerland’s first Regional Nature Park.

  • 2011

    UNESCO nominates Entlebuch as a model biosphere for the world.

  • 2021

    UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch celebrates 20th anniversary; second periodic review by UNESCO, confirmed as model biosphere for the world.