What is North Devon’s Biosphere?

North Devon’s designation as a UNESCO Biosphere places the region among some of the world’s most important natural environments, alongside Yellowstone National Park and the Galapagos Islands.

But what does this mean for the area and its residents?

ABOVE: Map of the biosphere outline

At its core, being a Biosphere is about balancing environmental conservation with sustainable economic growth making sure we don’t leave deprived communities behind.

North Devon is now a key player in innovation, using its natural landscape to create jobs and foster development. 

The tagline, “North Devon, world class by nature,” encapsulates this vision.

For too long, rural and coastal areas like North Devon have been overlooked in national growth strategies, dominated by cities.

However, with the increasing focus on green energy and natural capital, these regions are now positioned at the heart of future development.

“As a Biosphere we have been involved in researching and testing these new areas of innovations,” said Andy Bell – CEO of the Biosphere Foundation 

“Our aim is to make Northern Devon a hub for natural environment innovation, to an extent where it creates well-paid jobs at a meaningful scale.”

Andy also explained the significance of this designation: “North Devon being designated as a Biosphere is a really big deal. It means it has been

singled out by the United Nations as a site of global biodiversity significance. It puts it on a par with the most important environmental sites in the world. As a result, we have attracted significant grants, investment, and corporate partners to help drive this vision of North Devon as a hub for natural environment innovation. None of this can be done without working in partnership with the 30 plus organisations that collectively drive our work”

This recognition elevates North Devon to a global stage, giving it access to resources and funding that will support both conservation and economic growth. 

By leveraging its Biosphere status, North Devon can lead in the transition to sustainable industries, becoming a model for how rural areas can thrive in a green economy.

North Devon’s ecological significance is undeniable, making it a natural candidate for Biosphere designation.

Defined by the catchment areas of the Taw and Torridge rivers, the region is home to extraordinary and diverse ecosystems.

Some key natural features include:

• Braunton Burrows, England’s largest sand dune system, with over 470 plant species.
• The Taw-Torridge Estuary, a vital stopover for migratory birds, supporting over 20,000 waders.
• Lundy Island, renowned for its puffin colonies and a rich variety of rare marine life.
• Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks, home to iconic species such as the European otter and Atlantic salmon.

With the UK’s first marine conservation area, dramatic coastlines, and rare species like the Lundy cabbage and Golden Hair Lichen, North Devon is rich in biodiversity.

Its beaches, ancient woodlands, temperate rainforests, and Culm grasslands are just a few of the landscapes that define the region’s environmental importance.

For North Devon’s residents, the Biosphere status offers both pride and opportunity.

It positions the region as a leader in sustainability, creating new jobs in sectors like eco-tourism, renewable energy, and conservation.

As the world shifts toward greener industries, the region is well-placed to benefit.

More than just economic growth, the designation fosters a stronger connection between the community and its environment.

Local people are encouraged to engage with conservation efforts, ensuring that North Devon’s natural beauty is protected for future generations.

Paul Coles, CEO of the South West Business Council, said: “At the South West Business Council we are proud to work closely with the North Devon Biosphere team. The Biosphere’s UNESCO designation links citizens and business to environmental and social initiatives that links us to the 5 per cent of the earth’s surface that carries the designation. As businesses focus ever more closely on their Environmental, Social and Governance standards there is a real opportunity for those operating in North Devon to align themselves to the ambitions of the Biosphere.”

With its Biosphere status, North Devon is set to become a global leader in environmental innovation, proving that rural areas can play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future.