Why Isle of Man

The Isle of Man has taken a pioneering approach to marine conservation establishing marine-protected areas to help the recovery of Manx coastal waters and ensure a sustainable future for its fisheries.

The Isle of Man has a long-standing commitment to sustainable fishing, in particular within the Manx trawl-caught queen scallop industry, highlighted by the success of Marine Nature Reserves.

Over the years the Isle of Man has demonstrated a willingness to embrace scientific research, promote marine biodiversity and manage our fish stocks. There are close working relationships between Government, fishermen and processors in the Isle of Man which has enabled a number of positive measures to be put in place, particularly in relation to the sustainability of the scallop industry. The right balance has to be reached in order to support a vital local industry which brings quality food to the table, creates employment and boosts the Manx economy, as well as recognising the benefits of conservation. Ultimately it is in all the industry’s interests to ensure the Isle of Man has a stable, successful and secure fishery.’

The Isle of Man has been a long-standing advocate of fishing conservation, as well as seasonal closures and restrictions to conserve stock – and the eco-system that supports it – the minimum landing size for queenies is the largest in Europe. Isle of Man queenies were also awarded Protected Designation of Origin status by the European Union and in 2011 won the Billingsgate Sustainable Seafood Awards.

The Isle of Man has been recognised as one of the best places in the world to live, work and explore nature.

This high profile accolade has been given by the well know and highly respected world heritage body Unesco which has granted the  entire Isle of Man a Biosphere Reserve. This makes the Isle of Man the first entire country in the world to hold this unique status!