East Ayrshire Council has highlighted Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership's called for new members to join its board of Trustees.

The UNESCO region expanded in 2023 to take in 12 miles of the marine environment plus new terrestrial areas including the Rhins of Galloway and Alloway, birthplace of Robert Burns. As one of a network of more than 740 UNESCO Biospheres around the world, Galloway and Southern Ayrshire is recognised for its world class natural and cultural heritage and the array of local opportunities for sustainable development.

The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire (GAS) Biosphere Partnership is a charitable organisation delivering projects in conservation, enterprise, education and climate resilience across southwest Scotland's UNESCO-designated area.


The GSA Biosphere Partnership's delivery team comprises 15 officers who work across the 9,720km² region, with activity steered by a Partnership Board that currently has 12 Trustees. The board isespecially keen to attract new members with experience in marine industries and environment, community development, fundraising, tourism and communications. Applications from women, BAME and younger individuals are particularly welcome as the Partnership aims to fully represent diverse voices in its mission to promote a balanced relationship between people and nature.

GSAB Director Ed Forrest said: "The UNESCO Biosphere covers three local authority areas and is home to an astonishing variety of communities, businesses, and third sector organisations, all of which are essential to the 'big picture' of climate resilience, nature recovery, and socio-economic change. The post of Trustee is a chance for people with a passion for this region to make a real and tangible difference as we grapple with the most urgent issues facing southwest Scotland and the world today."