Biosphere Certification Mark on ‘International BioDiversity Day’

Nithbank Country Estate Receives Biosphere Certification Mark on ‘International Day for Biological Diversity’ 

Eight businesses from a cross section of industries ranging from food, tourism, forestry, horticulture and publishing are the latest business in the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere to be awarded the Biosphere Certification Mark.

Chris Miles, recently retired Regional Manager for SNH and former chair of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Natural Heritage group made the awards yesterday (Wednesday 22 May) alongside Emma Harper, MSP South Scotland.

Chris Miles commented“It’s fantastic to see businesses in the region recognising the opportunities that the UNESCO Biosphere presents by promoting and enhancing their sustainability credentials and particularly apt to be making these awards on International Biodiversity Day when we should all be looking at how we can change our actions to benefit the natural world.  The Biosphere vision is all about benefiting people and nature.”

Emma Harper MSP said, “I was pleased to have been invited to attend and present the awards for the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere event.  I congratulate the eight businesses from the Dumfries & Galloway and South Ayrshire area who have been awarded the Biosphere Certification Mark, the only part of the UK to have a developed quality mark.

Melanie Allen, Nithbank Country Estate said “I am absolutely delighted to be receiving the Biosphere Certification Mark, this is a very special award for us and it is really important to our business.  We are very proud supporters and advocates of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere, and it’s ‘World Class’ environment.   We are looking forward to sharing everything the Biosphere has to offer with our guests!”

Joan Mitchell Chair of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership said“UNESCO’s Biospheres are the world’s only globally recognised designation for regions demonstrating excellence in sustainable development. Our Biosphere can bring real value to our rural businesses and communities by leveraging the powerful UNESCO brand. The Biosphere Certification Mark which is for both services and product labelling is a great recognition to those businesses supporting sustainability.”