Your Biosphere - get involved

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Past Events 

5 March 2026 - Collaborative project shared learning

Our collaborative project with Doncaster Humberhead has reached a key milestone as both regions progress toward bids for UNESCO Biosphere status. 

The project centred on webinars, run over the last five months, delivered by existing UK biospheres in the Isle of Man, Isle of Wight, North Devon and the Living Coast Biosphere.

This invaluable collaboration helped to a build shared understanding of what it means to join the global Biosphere network, offered practical insights into how established biospheres operate, and demonstrated how communities can work together toward long‑term sustainability.

The shared learning will help shape the next stage of both regions’ nominations as they refine their visions for becoming part of the international biosphere network. 

 

7 February 2026 - Town and Parish Council UNESCO Biosphere Event 

Town and parish councillors took part in a workshop at the Wilderness Centre to explore the future of the forest and discuss how achieving UNESCO Biosphere status could strengthen the connection between people and nature, helping to safeguard the area's natural heritage. 

The event facilitated a thoughtful discussion and wide-range of viewpoints, reinforcing the shared understanding that the communities who have sustained the ancient traditions of Commoning and Freemining for centuries are best placed to be at the heart of any future Forest of Dean Biosphere.

 

3 February 2026 - UWE Presentation

A member of the climate team visited the University of the West of England in Bristol to deliver a presentation on the district’s nomination to become a UNESCO Biosphere.

Students at the University will be undertaking project-based work, using their Geographical Information Systems expertise, to support and strengthen the nomination process.

As part of their undergraduate projects, the students will explore how their skills can be used to map the vital information required by UNESCO — from cultural heritage assets to key species.

Education and research form one of the three core pillars of Biosphere status, and it was inspiring to see the enthusiasm students showed for the nomination.

Once completed, the students hope to make their projects accessible to the local community.

 

20 January 2026 - Nature and Climate Strategy Meeting

FoDDC and FoDCAP hosted a workshop to help shape the council's new Nature and Climate Strategy.

Representatives from a wide range of local organisations joined the session to explore key themes including climate change adaptation, the UNESCO Biosphere application, community engagement and knowledge-sharing, and skills and experience.

During a productive morning, participants selected three priority topics and ranked the top five strategic options at both county and district level, then explored the benefits, challenges, and practical considerations of the leading options. 

The afternoon continued with an OpenSpace session shaped by audience-suggested topics, including the benefits of community energy initiatives and the upcoming biosphere nomination. 

 

January to March 2026 - UNESCO Biosphere engagement work across the district

Engagement work took place across the district inviting the local community to help shape the future of the Forest of Dean.

The programme included visits to drop-in centres, youth groups, and community venues, alongside online conversations, radio discussions, and group sessions with residents, volunteers, and local organisations. These discussions brought together a broad mix of experiences, concerns, and hopes to help inform a shared vision of what the area could become in the years ahead.

Suggestions for the future highlighted a desire for greater self-sufficiency, including expanding local food production, reviving traditional forest skills, and developing a circular economy that keeps resources and value within the district.

The work was led by Wylderne — the community business that bought the Wilderness Centre last summer — and the Forest Voluntary Action Forum, working in association with FoDDC.

 

December 2025 - Freemining at Hopewell Colliery

Members of the climate team visited Freeminers at Hopewell Colliery in December to learn more about the ancient tradition of freemining and its continued importance to the Forest of Dean. 

During the visit, we heard about their commitment to protect this historic right for future generations and their work to engage local young people - helping to promote the practice and raise awareness.  

Safeguarding cultural traditions like Freemining is a key objective of our UNESCO Biosphere nomination.

 

9 December 2025 - The Verderers Court 

The Verderers Court welcomed FoDDC officers on 9 December to discuss the nomination process for UNESCO Biosphere designation.

During the briefing, officers outlined what a biosphere is and the wide range of opportunities it could bring to the district, such as stronger long-term protection for the area and a lasting legacy.   

Officers highlighted the key role of the Verderers in the process, noting their cultural importance and long-established stewardship of the Forest of Dean.  

 

21 November 2025 - Biosphere Conference

Partners from across the country gathered at the Wilderness Centre in Mitcheldean to pledge their support for the Forest of Dean’s journey toward Biosphere designation.

Inspiring voices from Biosffer Dyfi Biosphere and North Devon Unesco Biosphere shared how their communities have flourished since achieving biosphere status, with presentations detailing thriving wildlife and sustainable tourism that enables local businesses to grow.

During these discussions, a powerful theme became apparent throughout the day: we must all work together to protect what makes the Forest so unique.

Key supporters and partners of the application bid were also awarded certificates in recognition of their support.

 

9 September 2025 - Young Planners Presentation  

Officers from Forest of Dean District Council gave a talk to the Young Planners on balancing tourism with environmental protection, outlining the district’s efforts to gain UNESCO Biosphere Status.

The session introduced what a UNESCO Biosphere is, why the designation could benefit the Forest of Dean, and how planning contributes to protecting sensitive landscapes. It explained that biosphere status would bring valuable international recognition for the area’s natural environment, economy, and community, but would not influence or alter planning decisions.

The talk also outlined the considerations involved when assessing development within protected woodlands, showing how effective planning can enhance wellbeing, support sustainable tourism, and manage economic growth without compromising environmental protection.

 

April 2025 - Primary School Poster Competition 

Students were asked to design a poster highlighting what makes the Forest of Dean special and unique. 

The winning poster (pictured above) was designed by a pupil at Tibberton Primary School.  

The poster illustrates ways to enhance biodiversity around the school, including building a hedgehog house to provide shelter and encourage wildlife to thrive.

The winning school received £500 to spend on a climate action project of their choice.