Biosphere reserves are large, representative sections of natural and cultural landscapes that are divided into core zone, maintenance zone and development zone, depending on the influence of human activity.

In biosphere reserves, exemplary concepts for protection, maintenance and development are to be developed and implemented together with the people who live and work there. Biosphere reserves are model regions for sustainable development from the outset. They are also predestined to become models for dealing with the consequences of climate change. Biosphere reserves are also used for research into human-environment relationships, ecological environmental monitoring, regional development (including tourism development) and environmental education.

In 1979, UNESCO recognized the Steckby-Lödderitz Forest nature reserve as one of the first two biosphere reserves in Germany. It is the cradle of today's Middle Elbe Biosphere Reserve.