The island’s status as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve greatly enhances its reputation as a special place to live, work and visit.

That is the message from Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK, who has now chaired the first meeting of a group that will ensure the island gains maximum benefit from UNESCO’s recognition.

Mr Quayle said: ’The Biosphere designation tells those looking to invest, work, live and holiday in the island what a special place we are.

’It tells businesses looking to set up and attract employees that we have an enviable quality of life.

’It complements our efforts to grow our important visitor economy.

’And it hopefully instils in local people a tremendous sense of pride in the Isle of Man.’

The UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves comprises protected areas, or biosphere reserves, that are intended to demonstrate a balanced relationship between people and nature by encouraging sustainable development.

Last year the Isle of Man became the first entire jurisdiction to be admitted to the world network of Biosphere Reserves and the honour recognises the island as ’a special place for people and nature’.

The recent gathering of personnel from government, business, charities and environmental groups marks the formation of the Isle of Man Stakeholder Partnership Group.

Among the items on the agenda, were the group’s future composition and how the island can benefit fully from the biosphere recognition.

The Programme for Government promises to ’build and promote our UNESCO Biosphere accreditation for the benefit of our economy, environment and community’.

Last autumn, Mr Quayle was officially presented with a certificate marking the island’s biosphere status.

The accolade came at the end of two years’ work compiling a weighty submission for consideration by UNESCO.

Biosphere regions or reserves are international sites of excellence to promote active conservation along with responsible development. There are currently 669 biosphere regions in 120 countries.

According to government, the biosphere accreditation can strengthen the Isle of Man economy by boosting its international reputation, and creating business and employment opportunities.

According to the Biosphere Isle of Man website, it ’fosters pride in our unique way of life and, of course, will ultimately help to maintain and improve our exceptional landscapes and environment’.

Currently in Europe and North America there are 302 biosphere reserves, while Asia and the Pacific have 142 and Africa, 70.

For further information, visit www.biosphere.im/index.php, follow UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man on Facebook and @BiosphereIoM on Twitter and Instagram.