UNESCO/Toson-Khulstai Biosphere Reserve
Kempen-Broek
General information
The Kempen-Broek Biosphere Reserve is part of a transboundary area straddling the border between Flanders (Belgium) and the Netherlands.
Once expansive wetlands have been transformed into farmlands since the 19th century but the area retains remnants of its marshes, punctuated by ponds, open marshlands and bog forests. Scattered amidst this rich tapestry are villages and towns nestled on higher ground, while diverse bird species flourish across varied landscapes constitutes an important open space with high landscape and biodiversity value.
Detailed information
Key data
Year of nomination
2024
Country
Belgium
Total population
17800
Area
Surface
11,595.00 ha
Total terresterial area
11,595.00 ha
Location
Latitiude: 51.151044 - Longitude: 5.669597
Ecological Characteristics
Renowned as one of Belgium鈥檚 prime habitats for dragonflies, the region鈥檚 stream valleys also feature meadows and fields, whereas the higher elevations are mostly used for agriculture. Towards the north, vast expanses of moorland and inland dunes preserve intriguing prehistoric sites.
Due to its rich biodiversity, the area has an important role in the conservation of habitats and species in Flanders.
Socio-Economics Characteristics
As elsewhere in Flanders, the population consists of a mix of residents of Belgian and non-Belgian nationality. The most common non-Belgian nationalities are Dutch, Moroccan, Polish, Italian, German and Turkish.
The proportion of young people pursuing higher education is on average slightly lower than elsewhere in Flanders. By contrast, the employment rate is similar to or even slightly higher than elsewhere in Flanders.
The important economic sectors in the municipalities in the Flemish part of the area in 2021 were agriculture, construction, industry, wholesale and retail trade, liberal professions and administrative, support and other services.
