The Department of Home Affairs is the area of Government whose core purpose is keeping our island community safe.
Across the department, practical steps are being taken to protect the island’s natural resources. At the Isle of Man Prison, beehives, bird boxes, and hedgehog shelters - many made from recycled materials - have been installed to support biodiversity and reuse. A wildlife pond, created by a Prison work party, provides a habitat for local species and encourages environmental awareness among staff and residents.
Operational upgrades, including the replacement of equipment with low-energy alternatives, are helping to reduce energy consumption. Meanwhile, the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service has transitioned to foam products that lessen environmental impact, ensuring cleaner emergency response practices.
The department is also contributing to sustainable economic development. Lighting at the Prison is being upgraded to LED, delivering both environmental benefits and long-term cost savings. Solar arrays have been installed at several sites to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and electric vehicles are now in use across divisions for non-response roles, supporting the island’s transition to cleaner transport.
Cultural heritage is actively supported through the use of Manx language signage at departmental locations, and divisions with active social media accounts regularly promote the Isle of Man’s cultural richness and natural beauty. Efforts to make a positive environmental impact are ongoing. Fresh vegetables grown at the Prison are used in the kitchens, supporting sustainable food production and reduced food miles. Honey produced from on-site hives promotes pollination and environmental stewardship, while the Probation Service undertakes various community projects to maintain and enhance public spaces - for example the community garden, Garey yn Ellan Ain, in St John’s.
Community engagement is central to the department’s work. Divisions maintain active social media channels which promote and protect the island’s landscapes and Biosphere values. The Isle of Man Constabulary includes officers trained to investigate wildlife crime, supporting environmental protection and raising public awareness of such issues.
