EcoVannin, a new initiative to develop the Isle of Man as an outstanding example of a sustainable community, was officially launched yesterday, Tuesday 3rd March.  EcoVannin is a collaboration between three of the Island’s best-known environmental groups, the Department of Economic Development, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture and the Manx Utilities Authority.  Together they will work to build partnerships between Government, business, environmental groups and the community to encourage sustainable economic growth within a thriving society and environment.

The project, which has been funded initially by the Manx Lottery Trust, was outlined today to Tynwald Members, business leaders and environmental campaigners at Legislative Buildings, Douglas. Members of the EcoVannin Steering Group explained how the partnership will focus on a number of strategic workstreams, each playing a role in delivering secure, productive and environmentally beneficial outcomes for the community, businesses and the environment.  This will include support for new technologies, business models and other opportunities.

Muriel Garland, founding Chair of the initiative, said:

"This is a tremendously exciting and inspiring initiative, and a real opportunity for the Manx public and business community to get involved with a range of different projects, all focused on celebrating the beautiful and productive island we live on - and making sure that it stays that way. 

“We are very keen to hear from any organisation or individuals willing to spearhead one of the EcoVannin workstreams and help the Isle of Man remain an environmentally unique, economically vibrant and enjoyable place to live and work".

Graham Cregeen MHK said of the initiative:

"This is a timely project. Government's Agenda for Change stresses the fact that we ‘must use our natural resources sustainably and ensure we respond to the global challenges, responsibilities and opportunities which food security, energy security and climate change present.

“Work on ensuring the Island’s environmental sustainability is by no means new – EcoVannin simply provides a mechanism for NGOs, Government, business and the community to work together, capitalising on their individual strengths, outreach, visions and capabilities. We're entirely supportive of these aims, and look forward to co-operating on a range of meaningful, material projects in the coming year."

EcoVannin will be based at the Green Centre in the Chester Street complex in Douglas.  More information is available at www.ecovannin.im or by email to ecovannin@gmail.com

Photo -  (left to right) George Fincher, Ken Milne, Ian Costain, Cat Turner, Wendy Shimmin and Muriel Garland at the launch of EcoVannin.