The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere covers a region of over 5,200sq kms, comprising a biologically diverse and unique range of habitats including river catchments, native woodlands and peatlands, to name just a few. Nestled amongst this vast area are communities ranging in size from towns to tiny hamlets, some of whom have chosen to become ‘Biosphere Communities’ as Gatehouse of Fleet has. 

So what is a UNESCO Biosphere? A Biosphere is an international designation awarded by UNESCO (the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) in recognition of the fantastic array of landscapes, wildlife, cultural heritage and learning opportunities that an area offers for communities, businesses and visitors to experience and celebrate in a sustainable way. Galloway and Southern Ayrshire is one of two UNESCO Biospheres in Scotland (the other being Wester Ross), and part of a network of more than 700 UNESCO Biospheres around the world.

Our Biosphere has a team of staff that supports community projects across the region, and who are available to visit local groups to explain more about what a Biosphere is and does, and how our UNESCO designation can benefit people and nature. Soon, the team will be hosting workshops in both Gatehouse of Fleet and Creetown, keep an eye out for our posters, social media notices and in the Gatehouse and Ferry News Gazettes. Alternatively, if you are part of a group who would like to hear more, please get in touch directly. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.