São Tomé and Príncipe becomes the first country with its entire territory designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

São Tomé e Príncipe is now the first country with its entire territory designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. This designation follows the recognition of Príncipe Island in 2012, with the island of São Tomé now also included. Angola and Equatorial Guinea also had areas recognized for their ecosystems and sustainable living approaches. The UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves added 26 new sites in 21 countries, including four Portuguese-speaking nations, expanding its global coverage.