Which one of the following statements is not correct about Biosphere Reserves ?

Biosphere Reserves are internationally recognized areas of terrestrial and coastal ecosystems established to promote sustainable development while conserving biodiversity [2]. Statement 4 is incorrect because Biosphere Reserves were not started by the IUCN; they were initiated by UNESCO under its 'Man and the Biosphere' (MAB) Programme, which was launched in 1971 [5]. Statement 1 is correct as they are protected areas meant for the conservation of genetic resources and biodiversity [4]. Statement 2 is correct as each reserve is structured into three distinct zones: the core area (strictly protected), the buffer zone (compatible activities), and the transition area (sustainable human activities) [t1][t4]. Statement 3 is correct as there is a World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) comprising over 750 sites globally, facilitating international cooperation and research [c2][t3][t6].

Sources

1. [1] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 4: BIODIVERSITY > zoning of Biosphere reserves > p. 34
2. [2] INDIA PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT, Geography Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Natural Vegetation > BIOSPHERE RESERVES > p. 50
3. [5] https://en.unesco.org/biosphere
4. [4] https://www.unesco.org/en/mab/wnbr/about