Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce hosted a breakfast seminar to explain Isle of Man Government’s ’2018 Year of Our Island’ initiative, and the significance of the island’s UNESCO Biosphere status.

The free event - held at the Chamber of Commerce’s offices on Athol Street, Douglas, was well attended with guests including Chamber members and non-members.

The seminar featured presentations by Jo Overty, UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man project officer, Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA); Jennie Wheeler, change and reform programme lead, Cabinet Office; and Anna Goldsmith, change and reform project manager, Cabinet Office.

Rebecca George, chief operating officer, Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce, thanked everyone who supported the event.

The island’s biggest business network is encouraging members to support the 2018 Year of our Island and UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man initiatives.

Rebecca said: ’We would like to encourage all of our 300 Chamber members to apply to sign up to the pledge, where suitable, to ensure that the Isle of Man continues to be a special place to live, work and visit.’

Chamber has signed the UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man pledge. As reported by Business News, Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK officially presented the pledge certificate to the organisation.

Signing up to the pledge and its six principles means the Chamber of Commerce has agreed to:

lProtect the island’s natural resources

l Help to develop the economy in a sustainable way

l Support and promote cultural heritage

lMake environmental impact positive wherever possible

lEngage with the community through environmental, social or community groups

lAct as an ambassador to promote the island’s outstanding living landscapes through active involvement with Biosphere Isle of Man.

Left to right are Jo Overty, UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man project officer, DEFA; Jennie Wheeler, change and reform programme lead, Cabinet Office; Anna Goldsmith, change and reform project manager, Cabinet Office; and Rebecca George, chief operating officer, Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce