Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere’s initiative to promote sustainable enterprise continues to grow its network across southwest Scotland, with five new awards of the Biosphere Certification Mark announced in March.
Launched in 2018, the certification mark scheme recognises exemplary work towards sustainability in business. As a trademarked initiative it provides assurance to customers and guests that that those operating under the Biosphere banner are working to key climate and environmental goals, supporting their local communities, and reinvesting in the regional economy.
Those achieving certification in the latest round of awards are Little Tahall Farm in the Machars, The Biking Explorers based at Girvan, Craigengillan Estate at Dalmellington, Lean Bean Café at Thornhill, and the Glentrool Hive. All now have the right to brand their products and services with the Biosphere’s distinctive certification mark logo featuring the sundew –a small yet resilient plant that is highly valued as an indicator of environmental wellbeing.
Marie McNulty, the Biosphere’s Business Development lead, says, “Since the Certification Mark was introduced we have made nearly fifty awards to independent businesses, ranging from sole traders in the creative arts to large scale, land-based enterprises. It’s a really special network which we’re able to provide with unique opportunities for collaboration, in particular through creating bookable Biosphere Experiences and in destination marketing such as Scotland’s UNESCO Trail. Sustainability is a story that more and more people want to hear and it’s our privilege to give our local businesses a much bigger platform and connect them with UNESCO’s global brand.”
Applications for the Biosphere Certification Mark are open now until the end of May and it’s still entirely free to get involved. The scheme covers seven business sectors and the essential qualifier is that applicants are located within the Biosphere region, which covers more than 5,200km² over D&G, South and East Ayrshire. Further information about the certification process and the opportunities it brings is available on the Biosphere’s website at www.gsabiosphere.org.uk, or contact [email protected].
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