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 today chaired the first meeting of a group that will ensure the Island gains maximum benefit from UNESCO’s recognition.

The Island last year became the first entire jurisdiction to be admitted to the world network of Biosphere Reserves.

The honour recognises the Island as ‘a special place for people and nature’.

Today's gathering of personnel from Government, business, charities and environmental groups marks the formation of the Isle of Man Stakeholder Partnership Group.

On the agenda were the group’s future composition and how the Island can maximise the potential of 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’.

The Chief Minister 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.’

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

Photo - left to right - Richard Lole Chief Executive Officer in DEFA, Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK,  DEFA Minister Geoffrey Boot and Peter Longworth Environmental Protection Officer in DEFA prior to first meeting of group that will ensure the Island gains maximum benefit from our UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status.