Biosphere Awards 2024 celebrate sustainability champions 

Annual ceremony held at the Manx Museum

Inspiring local efforts to drive sustainability have been recognised at the UNESCO Biosphere Awards 2024.

From energy innovation to environmental stewardship, winners were said to have embodied the Island's commitment to a greener future. 

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan praised the community for working together as a 'living laboratory' to tackle global challenges.

Environment, Food and Agriculture Minister Clare Barber says the biosphere underpins everything we do on the Island.

Howard Caine spoke to Mrs Barber and first Rushen MHK Dr Michelle Haywood:

The 2024 winners were:

Economy: The Deloitte Climate Collective
Bringing together the local business community to share knowledge and address the most pressing sustainability and social challenges we face.
 
Education: Earthscope Isle of Man
A young, nature-positive social enterprise making waves through delivering training and education on sustainability, which empowers people and organisations to take action, including delivery of climate literacy training, and Biosphere Isle of Man’s Sustainable Mann workshops.
 
Energy: WeavAir
For work developing a ground-breaking digital platform that monitors and reports on real-time energy use and carbon emissions, to enable decision making which reduces costs, energy use, and emissions.
 
Engagement: Ali Hodgson
A graphic artist recognised for creating REIMAGINING our Biosphere: A whole-system game for change, promoting holistic thinking, and encouraging all parts of our island to imagine the future we want to create.
 
Enjoyment: Hello Little People
Developed ‘Let’s Get Wild!’ in partnership with Manx Wildlife Trust and the Manx Lottery Trust - an immersive theatre experience for children, celebrating our Island wildlife and fostering a deep connection with it.
 
Environment: Manx Wildlife Trust and Isle of Man Woodland Trust
Collaborating to deliver the Celtic Rainforest Restoration project at Creg y Cowin Nature Reserve, promoting biodiversity and carbon sequestration, and community stewardship of our Island’s natural heritage.

A special mention was given to the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group Isle of Man, which excelled in multiple categories, demonstrating exceptional contributions to local sustainability efforts in the world of agriculture. 

The judges recognised their role in supporting local Bronze Chough award winners, Rob and David Cooil, as the dairy farming brothers triumphed at the UK Silver Lapwing awards in August.