Supporting the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere
The Adventure Centre for Education (ACE) has been involved with the development of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere since its earliest stages. Having contributed during the initial consultation and establishment of the Biosphere, we continue to be a committed partner, supporting its vision of creating a region where people, nature and local communities thrive together.
As one of the first organisations to receive the Biosphere Certification Mark, ACE continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable practice, environmental responsibility and community benefit. Our accredited status reflects the way sustainability is embedded throughout our work, from outdoor learning and health and wellbeing programmes to conservation, responsible tourism and community development.
Over the years, ACE has represented the Biosphere internationally, sharing our experience of community-led social enterprise and sustainable tourism while learning from other UNESCO Biosphere regions. This has included exchanges with the Appennino Tosco Emiliano Biosphere Reserve in Tuscany, exploring the role of social enterprise in protected landscapes, and participation in a study visit to the North Karelia Biosphere Reserve in Finland, focusing on sustainable tourism and community engagement. The knowledge gained through these collaborations continues to influence and strengthen our own programmes across South Ayrshire.
We have also been proud to support the Biosphere through hosting and contributing to national and international visits, helping visitors experience the unique landscapes, wildlife, heritage and communities that make this region so special. Through guided outdoor activities, educational sessions and community engagement, we have helped demonstrate how environmental conservation, health and wellbeing, and economic resilience can work hand in hand.
More recently, ACE has become increasingly involved in developing opportunities that connect people with the marine environment. Following our presentation at the launch of the Blue Biosphere initiative and our leadership in developing the South Ayrshire Snorkel Trail, we continue to work alongside the Biosphere team to support the development of their new snorkel trail in Dumfries and Galloway. This collaboration builds on our experience of using marine environments to improve health and wellbeing while encouraging greater appreciation and protection of our coastal habitats.
Our work reflects the shared values of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere: caring for the environment, supporting resilient communities, encouraging sustainable tourism and inspiring people to connect with nature. We are proud to remain an accredited Biosphere business and look forward to continuing our partnership in delivering projects that create lasting benefits for both people and place.