How the Biosphere helps us create a sustainable future ~ Elizabeth Tindal

Freelance Ranger and Biosphere Dark Sky Ranger Elizabeth Tindal tells us how the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere is making life better for people and nature.

On our doorsteps, here in Galloway, we have dark skies, landscape, wildlife, cultural heritage and learning opportunities that are considered amongst the best in the world. We had the first Dark Sky Park and the first Biosphere Reserve in Scotland.

The Biosphere Reserve brand is recognised internationally and means quality and that a location is unique and globally significant. The network of Biosphere Reserves is added to where there is world class natural heritage and culture by UNESCO. Their aims are to improve the relationship between people and their local environment through developing innovative ways for people and nature to thrive.

The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere was the first to be created in Scotland and covers 5,268 square kilometres and is home to 95,000 people. It encourages people and business to work together to create a sustainable future. Our reserve is promoting integrated land use which benefits both the rural economy and biodiversity, combating climate change and the maintaining the local population. Making “life in the Biosphere better for people and nature”.

Lots is happening in our Biosphere at the moment with the South of Scotland Enterprise agency committing £1.9 million for a five-year funding package. New full-time jobs have been advertised and things will be going from strength to strength over the next few years. Key priorities will support and integrate the sustainability agenda into the lives of people who live and work in the Biosphere and beyond.

One of the key projects that the Biosphere has piloted is their Biosphere Certification Mark. In order for a business to achieve a Biosphere Certification Mark they need to first be a Biosphere Proud Supporter, showing their commitment to the ethos of the Biosphere.

I am a Proud Supporter of the Biosphere and also have a Biosphere Certification Mark for all the Ranger activities I carry out. My business has a strong environmental and sustainable ethos. I promote reuse, recycling and environmental stewardship through my activities. Much of the equipment I use is locally sourced, natural or second-hand. I champion this area, its wonderful nature and wildlife, including the Dark Skies at the heart of the Biosphere.

To hear more about the biosphere's story, join Ed Forrest and Joan Mitchell tomorrow at 17:00 for The Biosphere Revolution. Sign up here. 

You can show your support of our local Biosphere too by becoming a Proud Supporter on their website: www.gsabiosphere.org.uk. If you are already a Biosphere Proud Supporter, you may like to apply for a Biosphere Certification Mark or encourage your community to become a Biosphere Community.