The Isle of Man’s biosphere status could bring in extra business.

Environment Minister Geoffrey Boot said the Isle of Man, the first entire island jurisdiction within the UNESCO programme, would continue to enhance its position as a ’special place for people and nature, with a vibrant community, valued ecosystems and resilient economy’

That would help the Isle of Man in its bid to have its biosphere status renewed in 2026.

He told the House of Keys on Tuesday: ’All three of these aspects need to be thriving for the UNESCO status to be awarded and no one component should be at the expense of the others.

’We have recently appointed a biosphere champion, who is making great strides in improving the communications and profile of the accreditation.

’We will increasingly be seeking to promote the accreditation of the island where it can help to attract visitors and potential new residents and businesses.’

Mr Boot confirmed the biosphere champion was government communications officer Jo Overty, who had been seconded to the role.

The island would be expected to reapply for biosphere status on the 10th anniversary of its entry into the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, which took place in 2016.

Membership recognises the island as a special place for people and nature to co-exist.

The Manx Government has pledged to conserve the island’s landscape, wildlife, culture, heritage and communities, develop infrastructure in a way that supports the environment and increase knowledge of what makes the island special.