IIEM25 celebrated 25 years of the Inter-Island Environment Meeting bringing together environmentalists, conservationists, and environmentally-minded organisations and businesses from the UK Crown Dependencies and other British Islands and Ireland. The 25th IIEM was held for the first time in the Isle of Man after being set up and hosted in the Channel Islands for 24 years. The theme for IIEM25 was Collaboration for Greater Impact.
IIEM25 was hosted over three days at the Villa Marina in Douglas. The traditional IIEM took place on the first two days, with a series of presentations from the delegates on the environmental work and issues in their islands, as well as an afternoon of field trips around the Island. An additional third day focused on how environmental organisations can collaborate and build partnerships with corporate businesses, to benefit biodiversity, reduce climate change, and enable businesses to engage their staff in environmental issues, both locally and globally.
Download the 2025 IIEM Conference Agenda and Events Programme
Day 1 – Wednesday 17th September 2025
Day 1 consisted of talks and sessions on conservation and environmental topics. The official IIEM25 celebration event took place in the evening at Government House, hosted by Manx Wildlife Trust’s patrons His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor for the Isle of Man, Sir John and Lady Lorimer.
Session 1 – Data Recording and Monitoring
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Building Bridges for Risso’s Dolphins Conservation: Reflections Through the EDRIM Project
Juliette Biacchi, Association AL LARK
Risso’s dolphin conservation in the English Channel and French Brittany faces major challenges: limited sightings, fragmented data and uncoordinated efforts. The EDRIM project, led by AL LARK association, emerges to address these gaps by fostering collaboration among researchers and organizations across regions. The project has evolved from informal meetings into a growing network exchanging photo-ID catalogs, methodologies and tools. Despite challenges such as limited resources and data governance issues, EDRIM propose concrete steps to strengthen cooperation. This presentation outlines the project’s progress, challenges and vision.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Understanding the State of Nature in Jersey
Tim Wright, Government Of Jersey
The Government of Jersey, aided by non-Government partners, is working towards publishing Jersey’s first detailed ‘State of Nature’ report in 2026. This presentation will explain the process behind this collaborative project, discuss the main objectives driving this work, and report on progress so far.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Freshwater Species of the Isle of Man: An eDNA Survey
Rachel Glover, Taxagenomics
Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis offers a non-invasive method for monitoring aquatic biodiversity. We conducted an eDNA survey of rivers on the Isle of Man to assess the presence of key fish species. Water samples were collected from multiple sites and processed using long-read nanopore sequencing. Our results confirm the detection of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), European eel (Anguilla anguilla), and brown trout (Salmo trutta), amongst others, providing valuable insights into species distribution. This study highlights the potential of eDNA for fisheries management and conservation efforts, particularly for monitoring ecologically and economically important fish populations in freshwater ecosystems.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Twenty Years of the Jersey Butterfly Monitoring Scheme
Denise McGowan, Government Of Jersey
The Jersey Butterfly Monitoring Scheme has been running for over 20 years. The scheme is carried out by volunteers who follow the UK and European methodology for surveying butterflies. Jersey has collaborated with CEH and Butterfly Conservation in order to learn and run the same trend analysis to understand how our butterfly species are faring using the 20 years of data.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Session 2 – Restoring Natural Habitats
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Manx Peat Partnership: Peatland Restoration
Sarah Hickey, Manx Peat Partnership
The Manx Peat Partnership was formed in 2024 to facilitate peatland restoration on the Isle of Man. We have undertaken restoration work on the most degraded areas of upland peatland and will show the methods used and the impacts of the work so far.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Restoring Manx Wildlife
David Bellamy, Manx Wildlife Trust
Manx Wildlife Trust (MWT) was established in 1973 to save the Ayres landscape in the north of the Isle of Man from becoming an oil refinery. Today the Ayres is the Island’s only National Nature Reserve and part of a growing network of nature reserves across the Isle of Man. MWT manage 32 nature reserves covering 1015ha (2510ac) – about 2% of the Isle of Man’s landmass.
Acknowledging that we cannot halt nature’s decline by ourselves, we are now working alongside private landowners, farmers and fishers, developers and government to provide ecological guidance, support and practical help to better provide for nature across the entire area of the Isle of Man, at land and sea, recognising that we will never deliver nature’s recovery if we just focus on the 2% of our nation that MWT have guardianship over.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Seagrass Restoration in the Solent: A Journey Towards a Wilder Seascape
Timothy Ferrero, Hampshire & Isle Of Wight Wildlife Trust
The Solent is home to internationally important seagrass meadows, but there has been limited natural recovery since the “seagrass wasting disease” decimation 100 years ago Since 2021, HIWWT has worked with funders, and partners, to deliver habitat-scale intertidal seagrass meadow restoration. We share our journey and experiences, from seed collection and field trials using “seed pods” and Dispenser Injection Seeding (DIS), to aquarium-based germination trials and seed husbandry.
Our work has supported studies of biodiversity, carbon storage, EDNA and seed germination, supported throughout by our growing numbers of volunteer Solent Seagrass Champions. Together these projects support Trust’s WILDER 2030 vision.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Industrial Wasteland to Natural Gem: The Manx BirdLife Point Of Ayre National Reserve
Allison Leonard, Manx Birdlife
The Manx BirdLife Point of Ayre National Reserve presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to restore nature on a landscape scale. The vision to transform this former mineral quarry began over 20 years ago and took a major step forward in 2019 with the signing of a 49-year lease for 105 hectares of worked land. Discover the remarkable changes achieved in the five years since, the challenges encountered along the way, and what lies ahead in this ambitious project—turning an industrial wasteland into a haven for wildlife and a symbol of hope for nature’s recovery.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Session 3 – Conservation in Our Communities
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Outdoor Learning Entitlement
Greg Stalker, Outdoor Learning Centre
The Outdoor Learning Centre (OLC) is dedicated to ensuring every child has the opportunity to connect with the natural world. It provides a safe and supportive space where children and young people can decompress, play, communicate, solve problems, explore, push boundaries and build a lasting relationship with nature.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Bridging the Gap Between Science and the Community
Abigail de Castella, Alderney Wildlife Trust
How do we make science more accessible to the community? Alderney Wildlife Trust have been trialling ways to bridge the gap between science and people. This presentation will look at which methods have been explored so far, the findings from 2024-2025 and where we are going next. Has this been enough to inspire custodians of a small island? What does the future of community engagement look like for Alderney Wildlife Trust?
Presentation slides (pdf)
Douglas City Council: A City’s Journey
Chris Pycroft, Douglas City Council
Douglas City Council is the local authority for the island’s capital. Within our boundary we are fortunate to have landscapes as diverse as beach, coastal cliffs, urban, suburban, river, parks, town squares, allotments, golf course and glen. We are a Biosphere Partner and have been measuring our carbon footprint since 2018/19. We participate in collaborative initiatives that aim to support biodiversity and minimise the impact of climate change which currently include: – Douglas Pollinator Plan; Plan Bee – World Bee Day – No Mow May The Dragonflies’ Den with MWT – Pulrose Community Day and Masterplan with MWT.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Session 4 – Collaborating for Marine Conservation
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Tools, Tips and Tricks for Community Engagement in Marine Conservation
Emily Stroud, Hampshire & Isle Of Wight Wildlife Trust
Effective community engagement and volunteering is essential for successful marine conservation, stewardship and long term project legacy . This presentation explores practical tools, tips, and tricks to foster inclusive, sustainable participation from local communities, how to build your volunteer base; create inspiring workshops; budgeting tips for funding applications and more!
Presentation slides (pdf)
Community Voice Method: Using Documentary Film to Engage Caribbean Communities in Marine Management
Amdeep Sanghera, Marine Conservation Society
The Community Voice Method (CVM) is an innovative, research-based approach to fostering effective public consultation about important local issues. The Marine Conservation Society first used the CVM in 2009 in the Turks and Caicos Islands as part of a collaborative marine turtle project. In partnership with other Caribbean UKOT governments, NGOs and communities, MCS have continued to employ this versatile, film-based approach to engage communities in developing holistic solutions towards marine-related issues. The methodology will be discussed along with the challenges and opportunities of its application.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Marine Biosecurity Plan and Guide
Julia Henney, States Of Guernsey
Prioritising biosecurity is critical, particularly in marine environments where prevention is often the only viable option. The MBP (Minimum Biosecurity Practices) provides clear objectives to reduce risks and build resilience. Effective biosecurity depends on awareness, consistency, and collective responsibility.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Transnational Collaborative Balearic Shearwater Monitoring Programme: First results
Adrien Lambrechts, Office Français De La Biodiversité
Chris Sellares, National Trust for Jersey
Normano-breton gulf and particularly Channel Islands waters are suspected to host a significant and increasing proportion of the critically endangered Balearic Shearwater during summer. In the frame of the French national action plan, a collaborative and transnational monitoring programme was funded and started in 2024. Along with our partner the National Trust for Jersey, we present the main outcomes of the first campaign, carried out in 2004, including boat-based surveys and digital aerial surveys.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Day 2 – Thursday 18th September 2025
Day 2 consisted of morning talks and sessions followed by a choice of afternoon field trips to see and experience a range of wonderful landscapes, habitats, and environmental projects across the Isle of Man, the world’s only whole nation UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Session 1 – Biospheres, Fungi & Invasive Species
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Isle of Wight Biosphere Beacon
Jamie Marsh, Hampshire & Isle Of Wight Wildlife Trust
Ellen Williams – Arup
Our dream is: a healthy biosphere with nature in recovery; a stronger society where health and wellbeing is improved; a rejuvenated Island economy with greater access to jobs and opportunities. Our dream is an Island which can be a beacon of hope for the UK.
With nature at the heart of our vision, we will remove silos to focus on a circular, regenerative, nature-positive system with the health of planet and people at its core. Bringing together a range of partners, the project will break down barriers and unite experts to collaborate on a ground breaking approach for systems change.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Biosphere Isle of Man: A living Island Laboratory for Global Sustainability
Jacqui Keenan – Biosphere Isle Of Man
The Isle of Man became the first whole nation UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2016, celebrating the island’s special environment and biodiversity, rich culture and heritage, resilient and diversifying economy, and the community which cherishes all these things. As we approach our 10-year anniversary, the Isle of Man is reflecting on our achievements and challenges since designation, and looking to the future. We’ll discuss: – What is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve? – Our story so far – The future of Biosphere Isle of Man.
Presentation slides (pdf)
How do We Effectively Conserve the Kingdom of Fungi?
Liz Charter – Isle of Man Fungus Group
Fungi play a critical role in ecosystem function, yet their conservation has historically received limited attention. On the Isle of Man, the recognition of species-rich waxcap grasslands has provided an entry point for targeted fungal conservation. This presentation outlines the methods used to assess their ecological value, the collaborative approaches supporting their protection, and the principal threats to their persistence. By addressing both practical and conceptual challenges, we consider how fungi can be more effectively integrated into conservation planning and identify future directions for safeguarding these often-overlooked organisms.
Presentation slides (pdf)
A Collaborative Approach to Invasive Species: Plant Health Across the Pond
Nathan Hayes – Government Of Jersey
Invasive species pose a significant threat to global plant and ecosystem health, necessitating a collaborative approach to address these challenges effectively. This presentation reports on the successes and lessons from a four-month U.S. fellowship, investigating key invasive species pathways, such as wood packaging material, and strategies to mitigate their risks. Real-world case studies from South Carolina highlight identification, control, mitigation, and management strategies for pests like the Asian Longhorned Beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis) while discussing potential practical applications in Jersey.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Assessing the Feasibility of Managing Invasive Species in Jersey
Adam Dallas-Chapman – Government Of Jersey
In the Channel Islands, all established terrestrial invasive non-native species (INNS) were risk assessed in 2023 and ranked by their ecological risk, geographic spread and invasive potential. Since 2023, officers within the Government of Jersey have been undertaking management feasibility studies to determine which of the highest risk species can be eradicated from the island and which species will require a site-specific approach. This presentation will present an overview of this management feasibility approach and will also provide details on ongoing work to physically manage invasive species in Jersey.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Session 2 – Marine Conservation Management
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Changing Crabs in a Warming Ocean: A Sign of Things to Come?
Alex Purdie – Alderney Wildlife Trust
Rising sea temperatures are causing tangible changes in our marine environment. In 2017, furrowed crabs were first recorded in Alderney having previously been restricted to more southern regions. In a few short years they were one of the most common species on our shores, a stark product of climate change.
Alderney Wildlife Trust have quantitatively recorded the intertidal assemblage of crabs over time. This talk will cover our results and discuss the potential impact on Alderney’s ecology and fishing industry, as well as the wider implications across the UK and Crown Dependencies as sea temperatures continue to rise.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch
Jen Adams – Manx Whale And Dolphin Watch
An overview of the work of MWDW including local species, land-based surveys, photo-ID and the Visitor Centre.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Spatial Mapping Above and Below the Waves
Francis Binney – Government of Jersey
Sam Blampied – Government of Jersey
Understanding what is happening spatially in the marine realm isn’t easy but it is critical for informing management. At Marine Resources we use various mapping tools to monitor biodiversity, species movements and human activities. We would like to present some of our more recent projects that have a spatial element and explain how they have led to improved management and enforcement. Including but not limited to: tuna tagging, bream nest identification, geo-referenced sightings data, iVMS (inshore vessel monitoring systems), and our new publicly accessible online Marine Spatial Plan map.
Presentation slides (pdf)
DEFA: Manx Marine Conservation and Fisheries Management
Peter Duncan – Isle Of Man Government
Presentation slides (pdf)
Day 3 – Friday 19th September 2025
Day 3 focused on building corporate collaborations and partnerships, to collectively deliver global and local biodiversity and climate targets. The day included keynote talks from Jonathan Andrews from Remarkable Partnerships, and leaders from businesses in the Crown Dependencies who are driving the sustainability and green financing agenda. There was an opportunity for environmental organisations to present on important work streams, and develop corporate connections and support. There was also more in-depth facilitated discussions including environmentalists and businesses in workshops to develop collaboration ideas and the opportunity to pitch in for a small seed fund! The Friday was closed by Hon Alfred Cannan MHK, Chief Minister.
Collaborating With Businesses
Session 1
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Aviva
Caludine Blamey – Aviva
Climate Change, Carbon Emissions and What Can We do on an Island?
Adrian Cowin – Energy and Sustainability Centre, Isle of Man
The greatest impact on life on earth is atmospheric CO2. This two-part talk will describe human emissions of CO2 + related greenhouse gases, explain their effects and discuss the challenges in mitigating climate change. We will then show what islands like the Isle of Man can do to decarbonise their power systems, thereby reducing 80% of their emissions.
We will also explore the socio-economic benefits and ways of engaging the public and galvanising decision-makers. All the technologies are available, it is now just a question of putting strategies into action.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Nature Reporting: The New Financial Frontier
Dominic Wall – Deloitte
Nature is no longer a peripheral concern but a business-critical issue. Increasing global regulatory pressure and evolving market demands for nature-related financial disclosures, the finance profession has a crucial role to play in driving the transition to a nature-positive economy.
This presentation explores the financial implications of nature-related dependencies, impacts, risks, and opportunities for businesses. We’ll examine how finance professional can leverage frameworks like the TNFD, GRI and GBF to integrate nature into financial reporting, risk management, and strategic decision-making.
Discussion includes assessing risks and opportunities, connecting nature to financial impact across financial statements, and embedding nature into corporate strategy.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Session 2
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Voluntary Carbon Markets
Hannah Simons – Lloyds Bank
Hannah will outline how Lloyds are working towards sustainability across the British Islands, and why this is a core part of the banks purpose. The presentation will showcase the close collaboration with Manx Wildlife Trust, including the launch of the first on-island carbon offset scheme, and funding a Community Ranger, who is delivering a range of projects across the Island.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Working With Corporates
Samir Whitaker – Orsted
Working with corporate entities can take several different forms along a continuum ranging from ‘hand-off’ sponsorship to strategic partnership, each with its own potential risks and benefits. This session will aim to run through the process of scoping and developing these relationships including: screening and alignment, value proposition and initial approach, due diligence, work planning, monitoring & evaluation, and closing. Participants will leave with useful tools and approaches to developing, managing and evaluating the success of corporate partnerships.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Visioning Activity
Sarah Mercer – Earthscope and Isle of Man Biosphere Youth Network
Alice Ward – Isle of Man Biosphere Youth Representative
Mariella Craig – Isle of Man Biosphere Youth Representative
Session 3
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Visioning Activity Feedback
Sarah Mercer – Earthscope and Isle of Man Biosphere Youth Network
A Partnership Challenge – Funding Pitches
Closing Session
Partnership Challenge Winners
1st place, £1,500 – Thie Ny Shee (Isle of Man)
Transforming school grounds into vibrant outdoor spaces that combine education, therapy, and nature.
2nd place, £500 – Alderney Wildlife Trust
“Once and Future Woodland Project” to restore native woodland.
Judges’ Commendation, £125 – Jersey Marine Conservation
Judges’ Commendation, £125 – Outdoor Learning Centre (Isle of Man)
Eco-Match: Enabling Corporate Partnerships for Conservation
Leigh Morris – The Wildlife Trusts
Jodey Peyton – United Kingdom Overseas Territories Conservation Forum
Obtaining funding for conservation and environmental projects remains a crux challenge for those aiming to deliver them. The rise in Environmental Social Governance (ESG) and the increase in businesses wanting to support the delivery of global biodiversity and carbon goals through sustainable financing, offers a tremendous opportunity to the conservation sector. There remains, however, a disconnect between conservationists wanting to secure funding and the businesses looking to support. The Eco-Match on-line platform, developed by UKOTCF, aims to bridge this gap, and act as a ‘dating site’ for businesses and projects. Jodey and Leigh’s talk will explain the aims and evolution of Eco-Match, launch the platform and explain how you can get involved.
Presentation slides (pdf)
Closing Remarks
Alfred Cannan MHK – Chief Minister, Isle of Man Government
Posters
Business Carbon Slimathon – Chris Swingler
Bugs in our Drawers – Laura McCoy
Biosecurity – Olivia Pargeter
UCM Research Festival 2025 – Gail Corrin
Bailiwick Eelgrass Exploration Project | Mel Broadhurst-Allen
Manx Bat Group – Nick Pinder
Manx BirdLife – Allison Leonard
Jersey Chough Reintroduction Project – Charlotte Dean
IIEM 2025 Sponsors
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