UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Designation

2019

In June 2019, the entire Isle of Wight and its surrounding waters were designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognising the island's outstanding natural environment and the commitment to sustainable development. The designation covers the island's chalk downland, ancient woodlands, wetlands, soft cliffs, seagrass beds and the surrounding Solent waters. The island supports a remarkable biodiversity, including rare species of butterfly, bat, red squirrel and plant life. The Biosphere status was the culmination of years of work by islanders, conservation groups and the local authority. It places the Isle of Wight alongside other UNESCO-recognised sites worldwide and provides a framework for balancing conservation with economic development and community wellbeing.