Isle of Wight UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Geography The Isle of Wight UNESCO Biosphere Reserve AONB
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Last reviewed 10th May 2023

The Isle of Wight UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a 383 square kilometre area of land and sea located off the south coast of England. It was designated as a Biosphere Reserve in 2019, and at the time was one of only 721 Biosphere Reserves spread across 127 countries, and one of just 7 in the UK. All 7 are committed to sustainable development and protection of the environment. They are home to a diverse range of habitats and wildlife and offer a variety of educational and recreational opportunities.

The Isle of Wight Biosphere Reserve is home to a wide range of habitats, including chalk downland, heathland, woodland, and coastal areas. It is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including rare and endangered species such as the nightingale and the Dartford warbler.
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The Isle of Wight Biosphere Reserve is managed by a partnership of organisations, including the Isle of Wight Council, the National Trust, and the Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. The partnership works to protect the natural and cultural heritage of the Biosphere Reserve, and to promote sustainable development.

A popular destination for internal tourism, visitors come to enjoy the island's beautiful scenery, its wildlife, and its many outdoor activities. The Biosphere Reserve is also home to a number of businesses that operate in a sustainable way, such as organic farms and renewable energy companies.

The Reserve is an important example of how people and nature can live together in harmony - a place where people can learn about the importance of protecting the environment, and where they can experience the benefits of living in a sustainable way.

Here are some of the key features of the Isle of Wight UNESCO Biosphere Reserve:

Diversity of habitats: The Isle of Wight Biosphere Reserve is home to a diverse range of habitats, including chalk downland, heathland, woodland, and coastal areas. This diversity of habitats supports a wide range of wildlife, including rare and endangered species.
Sustainable management: The Reserve is managed by a partnership of organisations that are committed to sustainable development. This means that the Biosphere Reserve is managed in a way that protects the natural environment and promotes economic development.
Tourism: The Isle of Wight is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the island's beautiful scenery, its wildlife, and its many outdoor activities. The Biosphere Reserve is also home to a number of businesses that operate in a sustainable way.
Education and Research: The Isle of Wight Biosphere Reserve is a valuable resource for education and research. The Biosphere Reserve is used by schools, universities, and other organisations to learn about the importance of protecting the environment and to conduct research on sustainable development.