Located at the westernmost tip of Cuba, the Guanahacabibes Peninsula Biosphere Reserve protects a coastal–marine corridor of high ecological value, encompassing mangroves, wetlands, dunes and associated marine ecosystems. Its location, directly exposed to tropical systems originating in the Gulf of Mexico, makes this territory a critical area for coastal protection and climate resilience. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1987, Guanahacabibes covers more than 156,000 terrestrial and marine hectares and fulfils essential functions of conservation, sustainable development, scientific research and environmental education.
To strengthen the conservation of this exceptional landscape, UNESCO delivered more than half a tonne of technical equipment that will reinforce various areas of work in the reserve. The package includes technology — a laptop, a professional digital camera, and a projector — to support documentation and analysis of the state of the mangrove; and tools for the physical restoration of the ecosystem, including chainsaws, tents, wheelbarrows and shovels used in vegetation management. Personal protective equipment was also included, such as boots, gloves, solar torches and waterproof clothing, which are essential for safely operating in areas of difficult access.
These resources strengthen both mangrove restoration and monitoring capacities, as well as training activities and direct interventions in areas requiring specialised management.
With this delivery, the second phase of the MangRes project (2025–2028) begins. This stage will expand ecological restoration actions; incorporate hydrological interventions to improve the natural water flow in degraded areas; strengthen the technical capacities of personnel; consolidate local development initiatives; and optimise fieldwork logistics. The phase deepens the link between science, local management and community participation — a central approach in UNESCO’s work in biosphere reserves, mangroves and coastal ecosystems.
READ MORE: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/unesco-delivers-equipment-support-mangrove-restoration-guanahacabibes-peninsula-biosphere-reserve?hub=701
