World Biosphere Day: Richard MacNee

UNESCO has declared 3rd November ‘International Day for Biosphere Reserves'. We are meeting some of the people who make our Biosphere special and speaking to them about their contribution to it and how it inspires them.

Name:

Richard MacNee

Role/title:

Founder

Organisation (if applicable):

3 Pieces of Plastic

How does living and working in a UNESCO Biosphere inspire you?

I love the fact that I live and work in such a naturally beautiful place. Wherever I drive, walk, run, or cycle there is always something to see. We are so lucky to only ever be a few minutes from the sea. An active travel commute to the office along Marine Drive and around Douglas Bay always sets me up for the day.  

What do you gain from being involved in your Biosphere?

I detest litter and in particular single use plastic litter. Picking up 3 Pieces of Plastic every day (in reality, it is a lot more!) gives me the opportunity to do my small bit for the Island and to try and encourage others to do the same.

How would you encourage others to get involved in the Biosphere, too?

It is so simple to get involved. Try keeping the area around where you live litter free, join a Beach Buddies event or join PlasticBusters' Adopt a Place scheme (I have adopted Port Soderick Glen). It really does not matter what you do, every little helps.

What’s your favourite natural place in the Biosphere and why?

There are so many favourites but if I had to pick one it would be The Sound. It doesn’t matter what time of year you go there or what the weather is doing, there is always so much to see, and it is ever changing. The views across Kitterland to The Calf are stunning so a run or cycle there followed by a cup of coffee in the café is always worth the effort. 

What’s the one thing visitors to the Biosphere should experience and enjoy, and why? Can be a location, activity, cultural experience, food, etc.

As someone who loves the outdoors, I would suggest a Sea to Summit walk from Laxey beach, via Agneash to the summit of Snaefell. On a nice day the views are spectacular, you can walk back or jump on a tram. 

What makes you proud of your Biosphere?

Compared to many places I visit globally the Isle of Man is so clean and relatively litter free. The only entire UNESCO Biosphere nation is something we should be proud of and ensure we retain.

Sum up what Biosphere means to you in one word?

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