In a biosphere reserve, human activity is permitted in

To carry out the complementary activities of biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of natural resources, biosphere reserves are traditionally organized into three interrelated zones, known as the core area, the buffer zone, and a transition area or ‘area of cooperation.’

Core Areas: It is the most protected area of a biosphere reserve. It may contain endemic plants and animals. They conserve the wild relatives of economic species and also represent important genetic reservoirs having exceptional scientific interest.

Buffer Zone: The buffer zone surrounds the core zone, and its activities are managed in this area in ways that help in the protection of the core zone in its natural condition. It includes restoration, limited tourism, fishing, grazing, etc., which are permitted to reduce its effect on the core zone. Research and educational activities are to be encouraged.

Transition Zone: It is the outermost part of the biosphere reserve. It is the zone of cooperation where human ventures and conservation are done in harmony. It includes settlements, croplands, managed forests and areas for intensive recreation and other economic uses characteristics of the region.