'We need to recognise the knowledge that farmers and fisherman hold - and value it'

Biosphere festival's speaker on how nature, language and the environment intertwine

The keynote speaker at the Biosphere Isle of Man Research Festival says it's important that the generational knowledge that farmers and fisherman hold is valued.

Dr Mairi McFadyen's address explored how cultural heritage can inform more sustainable futures.

This year the Island has been celebrating 10 years since becoming the world's first whole-nation UNESCO Biosphere; a review into whether the Island can retain that status is currently underway.

Speaking to Manx Radio after her talk, titled 'Songs, Stories and Stewardship: Culture and Nature in a Living Biosphere', Dr McFadyen has been discussing the connection between the biological aspect of a biosphere and the cultural aspect.

On the importance of generational knowledge of the natural environment, Dr McFadyen says: "I don't think we recognise just how much knowledge [farmers and fishermen] hold, what an intimate relationship they have with the place.

"I think we really need to recognise and understand the knowledge that farmers and fishermen hold and value it and find ways for them to participate in decisions that are being made about the environment."

You can listen to the full interview with Dr Mairi McFadyen via the latest episode of Agenda with Phil Gawne below: