Island puts forward case for retaining biosphere status

Ten-year periodic review submitted to UNESCO

The Isle of Man has submitted its first periodic review to UNESCO 10 years after becoming the world’s first whole nation to be designated as a biosphere reserve.

Government says it shows the Island is continuing the meet the criteria to continue holding the status.

The review also sets out the priorities for the next decade.

These include stronger coordination across government, helping people understand what biosphere status means and securing resources needed to deliver this.

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."

A decision on whether the Island can retain the title is expected in summer next year.

To mark ten years of biosphere status an exhibition called 'Jeihosphere' will open on 3 October.

It will run until 28 February.

Jeih’ means 10 in Manx.