UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
The Isle of Wight UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
On 19 June 2019, the Isle of Wight was officially designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve one of only seven in the UK and part of a global network of 758 sites across 120 countries. This prestigious status recognises our unique mix of plants and animals, rich and valued environment and the sustainable way of life led by the Island’s communities.
The Biosphere Reserve Committee provides governance, actions strategy and strive to ensure the principles of the Biosphere are championed and integrated into life across the Island, and that the designation is secure and protected for future generations.
Find out more:
What is a Biosphere Reserve?
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a special designation awarded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to areas that demonstrate a balanced relationship between people and nature.
UNESCO website - What are biosphere reserves?
“Biosphere reserves are nominated by national governments and remain under the sovereign jurisdiction of the states where they are located. Biosphere Reserves are designated under the intergovernmental MAB Programme by the Director-General of UNESCO following the decisions of the MAB International Coordinating Council (MAB-ICC). Their status is internationally recognized. Member States can submit sites through the designation process.” (www.unesco.org)
UNESCO website - Designation Process
These places are internationally recognised for three core functions which are:
- Conservation – Protecting biodiversity, ecosystems, and landscapes.
- Sustainable Development – Supporting local communities to live and work in harmony with nature.
- Learning and Research (Logistical Support) – Promoting education, monitoring, and knowledge-sharing about sustainability.
What is Council’s Role in Protecting Our Biosphere
As the local authority, the Isle of Wight Council is proud to champion the Biosphere designation. We are committed to embedding sustainability into everything we do, from planning and transport to education and community development.
We’re working to:
- Protect our landscapes and biodiversity through our newly adopted Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) and taking opportunities to support conservation and create habitat restoration
- Support sustainable living by promoting sustainable energy use, reducing and recycling waste, and encouraging green travel
- Celebrate our cultural heritage and empower communities to shape a resilient future through place planning and regeneration, museums and local celebration days
Conservation: Living with Nature
The Island is home to some of the best wildlife sites in England, with nationally important landscapes and a vibrant mix of habitats. Our culture and heritage are deeply connected to the land and sea and we’re working to ensure they thrive for generations to come.
It’s our shared responsibility to care for it this special place. To find out more about our incredible nature and investigate the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) visit the Island nature website
Sustainability: A Legacy for the Future
Becoming a Biosphere Reserve is more than an accolade it’s a commitment to action. We’re drawing a line in the sand and moving forward with purpose.
We encourage all Islanders to:
- reduce their environmental impact
- support local and sustainable businesses
- get involved in community-led green initiatives
We can offer help to Businesses, Household and Schools alike through the following actions:
- all Island Businesses can join Green Impact - it is a sustainability engagement programme that helps organisations and individuals take practical, measurable actions to reduce their environmental impact and improve social responsibility.
- all Island Schools are encouraged to join Eco-Schools - a global education programme that empowers students to lead sustainability initiatives in their schools and communities through a structured, seven-step framework.
- all eligible households can use the home energy schemes to reduce their energy bills and increase the comfort of your homes whilst cutting carbon.
- signposting to other Island groups for help – by reaching out to sustainability@iow.gov.uk we can help support you to find the right groups in which to get support or expertise and share resources.
- We also hold a bi-monthly Environment and Sustainability Forum to share new research and ideas, update on policy and strategy and connect the Island.
This is about creating a better future for our children and grandchildren; just as previous generations did for us. If you would like to get involved with like minded Islanders supporting a sustainable future the Biosphere Committee can put you in touch by emailing hello@iwbiosphere.org
Learning: Discover, Explore, Inspire
The Isle of Wight is a living classroom. Whether you're interested in ecology, culture, or sustainable innovation, there are countless opportunities to learn and engage.
The Biosphere Committee supports educational programmes, citizen science, and creative projects that help people connect with the Biosphere and understand their role in protecting it. They work with universities and charities in all sectors to develop intricate solutions to local problems and can often help to support people to find funding for new sustainable projects.
Want to get involved?
The Biosphere belongs to all of us. Whether you're a resident, visitor, business, or school you can help shape a sustainable future for the Isle of Wight.
- sign up to the Biosphere newsletter at IW Biosphere website
- attend or take part in the Biosphere Festival which is held at the end of June - IW biosphere festival information
- attend or create your own local sustainability events linked to our Biosphere throughout the year
- share your story online with #iwbiosphere
- explore the interactive Biosphere map and visit some of the many fantastic options on the Island to be emersed in culture, heritage and nature - IW interactive Biosphere map