The Partnership - Key Roles

1. Setting the Biosphere’s Strategy
Creating the long-term vision and goals for the Biosphere.

2. Bringing Stakeholders Together
Coordinating between local government, conservation groups, businesses, and communities.

3. Supporting Sustainable Development
Advising on planning, land management, tourism, and economic policies.

4. Ensuring UNESCO Standards
Making sure North Devon continues to meet the criteria for being a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

​The work of the Biosphere Partnership is organised under eight working groups...

Business & Economy

FOCUS: Sustainable economic development and green business growth.

• Support eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and marine industries.
• Help businesses adapt to low-carbon and nature-friendly practices.
• Seek investment and funding for green jobs and innovation.

Catchment Management

FOCUS: to provide overall catchment coordination for the BR catchment planning

• Prepares catchment plan.
• Reports on progress for catchment restoration.
• Coordinates projects for partners in delivery of waterbody-related improvements.

Climate change & energy

FOCUS: Reducing carbon emissions and building climate resilience.

• Develop nature-based climate solutions (e.g. tree planting, peatland restoration).
• Promote renewable energy projects (solar, wind, tidal energy).
• Help communities adapt to rising sea levels and extreme weather.

community & engagement

FOCUS: Involving local people in decision-making and conservation efforts.

• Work with schools, volunteers, and community groups on biosphere projects.
• Organize events, workshops, and citizen science programs.
• Ensure local voices are heard in biosphere planning and policy-making.

marine & coastal

FOCUS: Protecting and managing North Devon’s coastal and marine environment.

• Oversee marine conservation zones, including Lundy Island.
• Promote sustainable fishing and marine biodiversity protection.
• Support research and innovation in coastal erosion and climate adaptation.

nature

FOCUS: Conservation, biodiversity, and ecosystem restoration.

• Protect and restore habitats like woodlands, wetlands, and marine areas.
• Oversee projects on wildlife conservation, river health, and rewilding.
• Work with landowners and conservation groups to enhance nature recovery.

research

FOCUS: To develop the research agenda for the Biosphere and coordinate research activity.

• Develop research programmes individually for the Biosphere and in partnership with others.
  
• Ensure research needs of the other working groups are being addressed.
  

trees, hedges & woods

FOCUS: Developing the woodland component of the Biosphere.

• Developing the woodland enterprise zone.
  
• Overseeing woodland creation projects in the area.
  
• Developing woodland skills and economy.
  

Each working group brings together experts, scientists, businesses, local leaders, and communities to tackle specific challenges.

​​Together, they make sure that North Devon’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve remains
​a world-class model of sustainability—protecting nature while helping people and businesses thrive.

Partnership Meetings

Minutes & Reports

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Partnership Members

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Terms of Reference

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