Calls for 'urgent review' of Island's wildlife legislation

Manx Nature Alliance says government progress has been 'very slow'

Campaigners are calling for the Island's wildlife laws to be urgently reviewed and updated.

The Manx Nature Alliance says government's progress in protecting important areas of habitat has been 'very slow'.

Announcing the appointment of its new nature advocacy officer, Naomi Atkins, the group says it exists to bring together wildlife conservation organisations and independent ecological experts to drive 'strategic action on urgent environmental issues and hold decision-makers to account in protecting the Isle of Man’s natural habitats and species'.

Independent ecologist Dr Philippa Tomlinson says: "We are very pleased to welcome Naomi to strengthen our team. We are concerned at the very slow progress of the government in protecting important areas of habitat. 

"We are worried about the increase in invasive species which upset the delicate balance of nature.

"We stress the urgent need to review and modernise existing wildlife legislation. 

"We urge the government to deliver on its legal commitments to biodiversity."

Naomi, who is Manx and has a background in policy and legislation, was formerly a climate change policy manager for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture before leaving the role in 2025 to co-found a local sustainability consultancy business.

She's been speaking with Manx Radio about her appointment:

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture has been approached for comment.