Previously managed as a joint venture between the three partners in the World Conservation Strategy and its successor Caring for the Earth (IUCN, UNEP, WWF), the WCMC formally became part of UNEP in 2000. The programmes of WCMC concentrate on species, forests, protected areas, marine and freshwaters, plus habitats affected by climate change such as polar regions.

In terms of links with UNESCO, UNEP-WCMC undertakes several co-operative activities with the World Heritage Centre, including participation in the World Heritage Information Network (WHIN). This partnership groups the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, the Advisory Bodies (ICIMOS, IUCN and ICCROM), States Parties, and those managing World Heritage sites.

As regards biosphere reserves, in the 1980s, the forerunner of the WCMC (then known as the IUCN Conservation Monitoring Centre) produced several compilations of descriptions of biosphere reserves as part of the MAB Information System (e.g. a 637-page compilation produced in October 1986). More recently in 2000, the WCMC has provided an assessment and recommendations on BRIM, and is continuing to collaborate in the further design and implementation of BRIM.