Reflecting on a Decade of UNESCO Biosphere Status

In 2026, the Isle of Man will celebrate 10 years since its designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Beth Penhallurick, Biosphere Periodic Review Officer, tells us more about what happens when we reach a decade as a Biosphere...

This milestone also brings the island’s first Periodic Review- an opportunity to celebrate what has been achieved during the last 10 years, to reflect on what we can improve, and ultimately to demonstrate to UNESCO and the Man & the Biosphere programme that the Isle of Man Biosphere Reserve still fulfils the global functions of all biosphere reserves. 
  
These include: 

• conserving biological and cultural diversity;
• supporting sustainable economic and human development, and;
• ensuring that progress is guided by research, monitoring, education, and training. 

UNESCO describes Biospheres as “learning places for sustainable development” - living laboratories where the needs of people and the rest of nature are balanced. Biosphere designation is not a mark of perfection, but rather a clear recognition of a commitment to address global challenges through local action, and international collaboration. 
  
A New Strategy for the Next Decade 
  
Alongside the review, the UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man (UBIOM) team are developing a new Biosphere Strategy for 2027–2036. This strategy will outline a shared vision for the island’s sustainable future and the actions needed to achieve it. 
  
To inform both the review and the strategy, we’ve begun engaging with stakeholders across the island. Through interviews, we’re gathering insights into the actions taken over the past decade and exploring aspirations and objectives for the future. More stakeholders will be contacted in the coming weeks to ensure a wide range of perspectives. 
  
Gathering Public Perspectives 
  
The wider public will also be invited to share their views through workshops and at key events in the Manx calendar, including Tynwald Day, the Southern District Agricultural Show, and the Royal Manx Agricultural Show – so come and find us and get involved! 
 
Biosphere Partners will be consulted through dedicated Biosphere Partner Forum events in July; if you’re a partner (or interested in becoming one), keep an eye on our social channels for an invitation. 
  
This is a, incredible valuable opportunity to gather insights from across the public and private sectors - not only to retain UNESCO designation and celebrate the last 10 years, but to ensure the our plan for the next 10 years is meaningful, actionable, and truly reflects the island’s shared vision for a sustainable future. 

For more information about Biosphere Isle of Man, browse our website or email Biosphere@Gov.im