In November 2018, the Shouf Biosphere Reserve was awarded the IUCN Green List certificate. It has been recognized as being effectively managed and fairly governed, with long-term positive impacts on people and nature.
The IUCN Green List is a global campaign for successful nature conservation. At its heart is the Green List Sustainability Standard that provides a global benchmark for how to meet the environmental challenges of the 21st century.
In December 2024 the Shouf Biosphere Reserve was relisted for another five years. It is the first site in the Middle East region to be relisted. The IUCN Green List Panel commended the SBR as one of "exemplary sites around the world".