Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere Certification Mark scheme is now open for applications.
Now in its fourth year, the programme aims to support and promote sustainable enterprises and is open to businesses based into the biosphere region falling into one of five categories: food and drink; accommodation; attractions; businesses and services; creative industries.
While the biosphere is celebrated for its unique landscapes and wildlife, the villages and towns where independent businesses can thrive are just as important.
The certification mark scheme seeks to increase understanding of what sustainability means in employment, enterprise and the regional economy, and to build stronger connections not only between sectors but between businesses and the communities in which they are based.
The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere has a dedicated business development team working closely with applicants, offering advice on sustainability as well as networking opportunities and marketing support.
And new for 2022 is a programme of webinars designed to help businesses tell their own green stories.
Business development lead, Marie McNulty, said: “Since the biosphere certification mark was launched in 2018 we have welcomed more than 30 businesses to the scheme.
“We’re very focused on recognising the amazing work that’s already being done in the name of sustainability: the certification mark celebrates a huge amount of innovation, hard work, progress and success.
“This round of applications is the first of two that will be running this year and we encourage anyone interested to join our webinars or drop us an email for more information.”
To sign up, email marie@gsabiosphere.org.uk
