Strengthening of Biosphere Reserves of Ecuador, as a Strategy for Conservation and Sustainable Development The project seeks to strengthen the management of the seven biosphere reserves (BR) of Ecuador through the design and implementation of multi-level and multi-stakeholder coordination mechanisms, the adoption of planning tools with a landscape approach and the improvement of governance, training and communication. The project also aims to improve the conservation, sustainable development and research functions in two specific BRs: Bosque Seco in Loja (RBBS) and ChocÃ³ Andino in Pichincha (RBCAP). Note: Disbursement data provided is cumulative and covers disbursement made by the project Agency. 93. The project will benefit 108,864 (57,215 men and 51,649 women) indirectly, who represent the rural population of both the Chocó Andino and Bosque Seco Reserves. The project will benefit 1290 people directly (645 women and 645 men) who will participate in capacity building activities, farm planning, and value chain support. . The project will implement multi-stakeholder and multilevel coordination mechanisms, and improve governance, training and communication to strengthen biosphere reserve management in Ecuador. The project will promote sustainable land management alternatives and support the growth of local bioenterprise value chains using a bioeconomy approach. Also, the project will support the sustainable diversification of local livelihoods, through the implementation of SLM practices in selected farms in the two prioritized biosphere reserves.Under Output 3.1, the project will support bio-enterprises with specialized training such as on good management practices, financial management, organizational strengthening, gender approaches, and environmental sustainability. At least 2 local productive associations or bio-enterprises that empower women, youth networks or other vulnerable groups will be strengthened in the project through training and technical assistance. .. In addition, existing UNDP-supported projects BIOFIN and PROAmazonía are generating financial products to be offered for bioenterprises. They will be operated by public and private banks and consider the uniqueness of these kinds of ventures, promoting appropriate interest rates and grace periods. The project will adapt these mechanisms to the conditions of the selected bio-enterprises and local microfinance operators.94. Under Output 3.2, the project will support SLM practices for agricultural systems including those that promote diversified farming systems, soil conservation, water management, and comprehensive pest management. SLM practices aimed at restoration in agricultural systems will be implemented based on agroforestry and analog forestry techniques. These SLM practices will support maintenance of the natural resources upon which the farmers depend as well as restoration practices and will also support increased productivity.95. Capacities will be strengthened at various levels such as individual (training), institutional (planning tools) and systemic (coordinating mechanisms) in order to promote a development that is responsible from an ecological and human point of view. For example, a national MAB committee with official national and local representation will be created and operational. The participation of civil society in this committee will be promoted as well as the participation of women in decision-making processes. By balancing these needs, the project will contribute to the achievement of global environmental benefits such as conserving biodiversity, improving ecosystem services, applying sustainable land management practices and ensuring the equal participation of men and women in natural resource management.