GSA Biosphere Partnership to host pop-up community events across the UNESCO region in summer/autumn 2025

The Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership has announced a series of pop-up events in Biosphere Communities to be held in August and September.

Fourteen communities in three local authority areas have joined the Biosphere Communities scheme since its launch. The initiative is designed to support locally-led development initiatives in sustainable tourism, enterprise, learning, and climate resilience, as well as site-specific projects to protect natural and cultural heritage.

Pop-up events will take place in community centres and local hubs including Glentrool Hive on 8^th August (10am-3pm); A’ the Airts in Sanquhar on 26^th August (11am-3pm); South Machars Community Centre on 2^nd September (11am-1pm); and Ochiltree Community Hub on 8^th September (10am-3pm). Residents and visitors are invited to drop in to meet members of the Biosphere’s officer team and find out more about the support available for community groups, local businesses, farming, and land-based enterprise, as well as outdoor leisure and green health opportunities, Carbon Literacy training, Biosphere accreditation schemes, and activities for young people.

Faith Hillier, the GSA Biosphere Partnership’s Community Officer, said: “Without the engagement and participation of local people the UNESCO Biosphere would not even exist and we are always excited to spend time building on the brilliant relationships we have with community councils, development trusts, and local businesses, organisations, schools and special interest groups. Our remit is all about responding to local need, creating opportunities, and inspiring stewardship of our unique heritage. We’re hoping for a great turnout at our upcoming pop-up events and to have conversations that will help our team shape upcoming projects and events to provide maximum benefit to those who live and work in the UNESCO Biosphere.”

The Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere is one of a worldwide network of designations working towards the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals and the GSA Biosphere Partnership is supported by core funding from South of Scotland Enterprise, Dumfries & Galloway Council, East Ayrshire Council, and South Ayrshire Council, and by charitable donations. More information on the Biosphere Communities scheme and the organisation’s wider programme is available by email request to info@gsabiosphere.org.uk  or follow #gsabiosphere on social media.