COP-26 made climate change and climate action the centre of attention for the whole world for two weeks, and the Isle of Man was not far behind.
The Glasgow summit provided a platform for the most significant climate crisis talks in years, where topics such as halting and reversing deforestation, making green tech cheaper than alternatives, phasing out coal and fossil fuels, and climate finance were discussed.
For the Isle of Man, COP-26 was very successful.
Paris Agreement
It was announced during COP-26 by Greg Hands MP, the UK Minister of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), that the UK and the Isle of Man had reached an agreement in principle to extend the UK's ratification of the Paris Agreement to the Isle of Man.
This agreement in principle follows lengthy negotiations between the Isle of Man and the UK Government, which includes a full review of the Island's plans to reach net-zero by 2050 - a goal also pledged by the UK and many developed nations. This agreement also means that the Island must comply with the treaty's obligations and the UK's overall target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Island will be able to do so by setting its targets and paths.
Youth and Public Empowerment Day
The Isle of Man had the opportunity to showcase images and quotes from young people on why we need to act now to tackle climate change during the Youth and Public Empowerment Day.
Nature Day
On Nature Day at COP-26, the Isle of Man showcased our compelling story on our blue carbon project, which showed how we quantify, categorise, utilise and enhance our existing blue carbon resources. The footage showed the beauty of the marine environment and the need to protect our oceans alongside our scientists' work in helping to save them for future generations.
On- Island Programme
Meanwhile, on-Island, a programme of activities during COP-26 was carried out by Net Zero Isle of Man and key stakeholders to highlight the significance of the conference and local climate change action.
Net Zero Isle of Man – Together for Our Future Webinars
A five-part webinar series was delivered by thought leaders, including NASA astronaut Nicole Stott and Special Advisor to the Climate Change Transformation Board, Professor James Curran.
The first webinar was "Taking action in your own lives; where to start reducing your own emissions", presented by Aly Lewin, Head of Programme Delivery, Climate Change Transformation Team. Aly shared key updates on where the Island is on its journey's to net zero and some tips on how individuals can reduce their emissions.
Adrian Cowin, Senior Meteorological Officer, Ronaldsway Met Office and Sarah Hickey, Conservation Officer, Manx Wildlife Trust, presented the webinar "Climate change – the impact on Mann". Adrian shared the changes to the weather conditions in recent years and also forecast for the future. Sarah talked about how wildlife on the Island has been impacted by climate change. For example, extreme weather patterns have affected chick productivity for Herring Gulls and Black-backed Gulls.
We also had the honour to have Nicole Stott, NASA Astronaut, who shared the webinar "Back to Earth: what life in space taught me about our home planet and our mission to protect it". Nicole shared what she learnt from being in space: we should all be "crewmates" and not passengers. She gave us the strong message that we all have a role to play, and equally important, we need to have each other's back and have fun!
Professor James Curran, prominent climate change scientist, presented the webinar "The link between the climate change emergency and the biodiversity crisis". He shared examples of where climate change has impacted biodiversity and that the world is experiencing a 'compounding crisis'.
The last webinar was presented by Rebecca Nestor, an experienced climate psychologist and board member of the Climate Psychology Alliance. More than a webinar, Rebecca ran a workshop about "Talking Climate Change". Her advice was not to avoid talking about climate change just because it is a challenging topic, but instead, she encouraged attendees to talk about the climate crisis as being more aware of the topic can help prepare us for our future. She gave us examples of how to start and maintain a conversation on climate change. Her top tip includes: listening to the other person and understanding their process (personal choices, mood, agenda or perception), and talking through these with them.
You can watch the recordings of the webinars on the Netzeroiom YouTube channel.
Sustainable Mann Workshop by UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man
As part of the 'Sustainable Mann' accreditation, UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man ran the workshop 'Climate change for business', which was presented by Dr. Fiona Gell, Head of Research & Development, Climate Change Transformation Team.
Four-week course by University College Isle of Man
University College Isle of Man offered a four-week course on understanding the climate and ecological emergency challenges.
Articles by the IOM Arts Council
The IOM Arts Council interviewed local artists and creatives who use climate change and responsible consumerism themes in their work to highlight the importance and role of art and artists in their fight against climate change.
School Mock COP-26 by the One World Centre
The One World Centre organised Mock COP-26 events at King William College, Queen Elizabeth II High School and Castle Rushen High School, raising awareness of climate action among young people.
Tree-Planting by the Isle of Man Woodlands Trust
The Isle of Man Woodlands Trust organised a tree-planting session that was open for the public. More than forty volunteers planted 410 trees in a single session, a new record for the charity.
Together For Our Planet, by Net Zero Isle of Man and Gef
To conclude two weeks of activities and climate information, an in-person event, Together for Our Planet, was hosted by Net Zero Isle of Man and Gef at Hendersen and Glass, in Douglas. Members of the public had the opportunity to talk to experts on various topics about climate change.
The evening aimed to encourage conversations on climate change, as awareness of the issues can help people prepare for their future and empower them to take action.
Publicity via the Courier
All of the above activities were promoted in the Courier as an 8-page wrap. This wrap also included information on COP-26, the impact of climate change on the Isle of Man, action taken by the Government so far, as well as actions that individuals can take. Click the image above to find out more.
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