The Isle of Man has submitted its first Periodic Review to UNESCO, marking ten years since it became the world’s first whole nation to be designated a Biosphere Reserve.
UNESCO requires every Biosphere Reserve to submit a review every ten years.
This review shows that the Isle of Man continues to meet the criteria for Biosphere status, and highlights what has been achieved over the past decade. This includes a growing network of nearly 400 partners across government, business, education and community organisations, and the Island’s influence within the global Biosphere network.
It also sets out priorities for the next ten years. These include stronger coordination across government, helping people understand what Biosphere status means for the Island, and securing the resources needed to deliver this.
Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:
‘Being the world’s first entire nation designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a status we should be immensely proud of. This review is our chance to celebrate ten remarkable years and ensure that legacy continues.’
Jason Bissell, Chair of the Biosphere Board, said:
‘The Periodic Review shows how far we’ve come since becoming the world’s first whole-nation Biosphere, and also highlights where we can do more. It reminds us that our communities, environment and economy are connected, and that the choices we make together will shape the Island’s future.’
The review’s outcome is expected from the Man and the Biosphere International Coordinating Council in summer 2027.
To mark ten years of Biosphere status, the Jeihosphere exhibition opens on Saturday 3 October and runs until Sunday 28 February – ‘jeih’ means ‘ten’ in Manx. The exhibition gives everyone on the Island a chance to explore what Biosphere status means, in practice, for the people who live here.
Find out more at the Biosphere Isle of Man website.
