Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership seeks new Trustees

The UNESCO region expanded in 2023 to take in 12 miles of the marine environment plus new terrestrial areas including the Rhins of Galloway and Alloway, birthplace of Robert Burns. As one of a network of more than 740 UNESCO Biospheres around the world, Galloway and Southern Ayrshire is recognised for its world class natural and cultural heritage and the array of local opportunities for sustainable development.

The GSA Biosphere Partnership’s delivery team comprises 15 officers who work across the 9,720km² region, with activity steered by a Partnership Board that currently has 12 Trustees. The board isespecially keen to attract new members with experience in marine industries and environment, community development, fundraising, tourism and communications. Applications from women, BAME and younger individuals are particularly welcome as the Partnership aims to fully represent diverse voices in its mission to promote a balanced relationship between people and nature.

GSAB Director Ed Forrest says, “The UNESCO Biosphere covers three local authority areas and is home to an astonishing variety of communities, businesses, and third sector organisations, all of which are essential to the ‘big picture’ of climate resilience, nature recovery, and socio-economic change. The post of Trustee is a chance for people with a passion for this region to make a real and tangible difference as we grapple with the most urgent issues facing southwest Scotland and the world today.”

More information about the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership’s Trustee opportunity is available at GSA biosphere website or by email  to info@gsabiosphere.org.uk.

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Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere

Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere has been recognised internationally as a world class environment for people and nature.

The UNESCO Biosphere designation was awarded in 2012 in recognition of the fantastic array of landscapes, wildlife, cultural heritage and learning opportunities that SW Scotland offers for communities, businesses and visitors to experience and celebrate in a sustainable way.

The Biosphere designation brings no new rules or regulations but rather encourages us to work together to create a better future for people and nature.

A UNESCO Biosphere is a special designation awarded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to areas renowned for their exceptional environments which are valued by local people. They are places of cooperation and collaboration that show that a sustainable way of living is not only possible but already happening.

It has four main functions:

• Conservation: promoting the preservation of wildlife, habitats and landscape.
• Learning: supporting a better understanding of nature and global issues.
• Development: fostering a sustainable economy and society.
• Climate Change: supporting mitigation and adaptation in a changing global environment

Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere covers over 9,700km² of land and sea. It was the first such designation in Scotland and is part of a family of over 740 UNESCO Biospheres worldwide.

The Biosphere is a Registered Scottish Charity (SC044137) led by a partnership board that has representation from communities, businesses, organisations and agencies with an interest in the region.

For more information visit www.gsabiosphere.org.uk