The Isle of Man is a whole-nation UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, reflecting it is a special place for people and the rest of nature.

In a special edition of our regular feature, Rachel Smith from UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man tells us about a new exhibition which looks to celebrate #OurBiosphere:

This autumn, on October 2, a new exhibition at the Manx Museum will open to mark 10 years since the Isle of Man became the world's first whole-nation UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

But rather than focusing on policies, plans or statistics, ‘Jeihosphere’ will tell the story through the people, places and ideas that have shaped the island over the last decade.

Named after the Manx Gaelic word jeih, meaning ‘ten’, the exhibition brings together 10 objects that reflect different aspects of Biosphere Isle of Man, alongside photographs and art celebrating key achievements.

From culture, education and community to environmental projects, conservation and business initiatives, the exhibition highlights the many ways Biosphere values have been put into practice across the island. Together, the exhibits paint a picture of a Biosphere woven through everyday life.

Jeihosphere is appropriately launching during Blein ny Gaelgey, the Year of the Manx Language. This island-wide initiative aims to encourage more people to use Manx, reach new audiences and celebrate an important part of our island identity.

Themes include identity and sense of place, creativity, lifelong learning and community participation; ideas that align closely with the wider aims of Biosphere Isle of Man.

The celebrations will not stop at the museum doors. Throughout October, Biosphere Partners will be hosting fringe events across the island, providing opportunities for people to explore different aspects of the Biosphere in their own communities.

Organised and delivered by partners, these events will reflect the diversity of the Biosphere itself, from nature and heritage to culture, learning and community life, while helping us celebrate 10 years of achievement together.

Information on events will be shared through the Biosphere Isle of Man website and social media channels.

As Jeihosphere looks back on the first decade of Biosphere Isle of Man, it is really telling a much broader story: how people across the island have contributed to making the island a place where nature, culture, community and economy can thrive together.

The exhibition may focus on the last 10 years, but it also invites us to consider what role each of us will play in the next 10.

The exhibition will be available to visit until the end of February 2027. We, here at Biosphere Isle of Man, extend a big gura mie eu, thank you, to Manx National Heritage and the team at the Manx Museum in Douglas for making this exhibition possible.

- Do you have an interest in environmental matters in the Isle of Man? Or do you have an exciting environmental event coming up? We want to hear from you!

Email [email protected] with details and a photo for a chance to be featured. Whatever it is, let us help spread the word!