The Isle of Man has submitted its first Periodic Review to UNESCO, ten years after becoming the world’s first entire nation recognised as a Biosphere Reserve.
The review confirms the island continues to meet UNESCO’s criteria and outlines progress since 2016, including a network of almost 400 partners across government, business, education and community groups, and growing influence within the global Biosphere community.
Priorities for the next decade include stronger cross‑government coordination, improving public understanding of Biosphere status, and securing long‑term resources to support the programme.
Environment Minister Clare Barber MHK said the milestone was “a chance to celebrate ten remarkable years and ensure that legacy continues.”
Biosphere Board Chair Jason Bissell said the review showed how far the island had come, while highlighting areas for further work: “It reminds us that our communities, environment and economy are connected, and that the choices we make together will shape the island’s future.”
UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere International Coordinating Council is expected to give its outcome in summer 2027.
To mark the anniversary, the Jeihosphere exhibition opens on October 3 and runs until February 28, offering the public a chance to explore what Biosphere status means in practice for island life.
