Recent debate has shown disenchantement over the capacity of technology to provide solutions to current and future development problems, and this has led to questioning the value of scientific research itself, including that in the environmental field. The paper describes the objectives and approach of the Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB), which was launched by UNESCO in 1971 as a major solution to important environmental and resources problems.

Centred around 14 research themes relating to human interactions with major ecosystems, MAB activities are focused particularly on regional networks of integrated pilot projects, combining interdisciplinary research, demonstration, training, and education. Many of these pilot projects are associated with ‘Biosphere Reserves’, which provide a new tool for ecosystems conservation. As an example of this approach, which involves cooperation of research workers of various disciplines with decision makers and with the populations concerned, the paper describes the MAB network dealing with the problems of the humid tropics, which is now fully operational. While indicating the difficulties encountered, it stresses the merits of this new approach in filling existing knowledge-gaps, in ensuring social and economic applicability of the results achieved, and in allowing fruitful cooperation between developed and developing countries.