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10. The lake is a biosphere reserve |
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Tonle Sap: Source of Lives
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What is a biosphere reserve? A Biosphere Reserve is a natural site whose importance has been internationally recognised within the framework of UNESCO's "Man and Biosphere" programme. A Reserve combines three basic functions: conservation of the landscapes and species of the area; development activities which respect the local culture, environment and society; research, educational and information exchange related to issues of conservation and sustainable development. These three functions are made possible through appropriate zoning. A Biosphere Reserve is actually subdivided into a core area, a buffer zone and a transitional area. In sum, Biosphere Reserves are much more than protected areas. They aim to be sites of harmonious development between man and his environment. |
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Why Tonle Sap lake? The Biosphere Reserve concept is particularly well-suited to Tonle Sap lake, where the human and cultural dimension is of vital importance. The economic value of the lake, its role as a source of fertility and abundance, the celebration of the reversal of river direction in several festivals, the traditional knowledge and use of resources, the ecological and cultural link with Angkor: all are recognised and promoted. The lake is currently under threat and there is no doubt that conferring it the Biosphere Reserve label is one of the ways of preserving its exceptional richness. But this action is not enough, so remember that you too as an individual can protect the lake! A long-term process October 1992: His majesty King Norodom Sihanouk requests the inclusion of Tonle Sap lake on the list of World Heritage sites. 1st November 1993: Promulgation of the Royal Decree on multi-purpose protected areas (including the Tonle Sap floodplain) November 1995: Establishment of the Technical Coordination Unit (TCU) within the Ministry of the Environment. March 1996: First inter-ministerial forum on the preservation of Tonle Sap. October 1997: UNESCO designates Tonle Sap lake as a Biosphere Reserve. February 1998: Strategy and Action Plan for the Protection of Tonle Sap. 2000: Royal Decree making the entire Tonle Sap lake a Biosphere Reserve. |
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Prek Toal Environmental station Prek Toal station is located in one of the three Tonle Sap core zones and was built in 1998 by the European Union. It is meant to be a research platform and to promote environmentally-friendly tourism. It is now supported by UNESCO but managed by the Technical Coordination Unit of the Ministry of the Environment. The station leads research activities, conducts surveys on species protection and conservation, runs local development projects and an awareness programme for schooled and unschooled village children. A charming one-hour boat trip from Siem Reap can take you to Prek Toal, so why not visit the site? [next] |
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