Galloway and Southern Ayrshire will be celebrating on November 3rd as the world marks the first ever International Day for Biosphere Reserves.
The GSA Biosphere team have been coordinating with other UNESCO Biospheres in the UK and Ireland to create a digital showcase of the relationships and interactions that local people have with the Biosphere where they live, work and play. Q&As with community representatives and others involved in tourism, outdoor learning, nature restoration and more will be published on the GSA Biosphere’s website and social media platforms, and shared worldwide via UNESCO’s international network. Interviewees include Katrina Dick, Business Development Manager with the Newton Stewart Initiative, Biosphere Dark Sky Ranger Elizabeth Tindal, and David Steel, Chairman of the Gatehouse Development Initiative. Each participant has spotlighted their favourite places to spend time and boost wellbeing, as well as their recommendations for how others can make new connections and immerse themselves in ‘Biosphere life’.
There are currently 738 UNESCO Biospheres in 134 countries, all of which are considered places of international importance for their natural and cultural heritage and local opportunities for sustainable development. Galloway and Southern Ayrshire was the first to be designated in Scotland and reaches its 10th anniversary in 2022/3. UNESCO Biospheres all work to the ethos of ‘Think Global, Act Local’ through projects and partnerships that cover conservation, education, sustainability and climate resilience.
Tamara Fulcher, Communications & Marketing lead with the GSA Biosphere, says, “The first International Day of Biosphere Reserves is a truly global opportunity, not only to spread the word that Galloway and Southern Ayrshire stands on this international stage, but that it really does belong to everyone who lives here. I’d encourage anyone with time to spare on November 3rd to look at our blog, visit our social media platforms – and drop us an email if you want to know more! We’ve got stories to share, places you might not have explored, and so many opportunities for all ages to get involved.”
Find out more about the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere and its programme of activity at www.gsabiosphere.org.uk or email [email protected].
