Mark Firth

Mark credited his environmental values to his mother, a former Greenpeace campaigner who introduced him to nature from an early age and encouraged an interest in wildlife and the natural world.

He expressed support for renewable energy, nature-based solutions and greater public use of green spaces. He was particularly interested in renewable fuels, local energy generation and improving energy security through practical environmental solutions.

A recurring theme was that government cannot solve every challenge alone. Mark argued that charities, communities and businesses all have a role to play in connecting people with nature and delivering environmental improvements. "Moving to renewable resources just makes sense overall."

Kirrie Jenkins

Kirrie provided one of the most detailed and informed responses of any candidate.

Having grown up on Moorhouse Farm and later becoming involved in organisations such as Plastic Oceans and Ocean Generation, she brought extensive experience of environmental campaigning, conservation and land management.

She strongly supported habitat restoration, biodiversity net gain, stronger planning processes, nature-based solutions and better legal protections for biodiversity. Throughout the interview she emphasised that farmers are central to environmental recovery and repeatedly described landowners as custodians of the environment. "Farmers are not the problem. They are a crucial part of the solution."

Kirrie also highlighted the value of outdoor education, Forest Schools, restoring upland and marine habitats and making biodiversity recovery a central part of government policy.

Abigail Quirk

Abigail's responses were strongly shaped by personal experience as a parent and by the role nature has played in supporting her family's wellbeing.

She supported increasing the amount of land and sea managed for nature while balancing the needs of farming, housing and local communities. She repeatedly advocated practical nature-based solutions such as tree planting, wetland restoration and natural drainage.

Abigail also highlighted the importance of maintaining public access to nature and encouraging children to spend more time outdoors. "If people are out enjoying it, they're much more likely to want to look after it."

Her proposed first-year priority was to review how government-owned land is managed and identify opportunities to create more space for nature without reducing productive farmland.

We were unable to get an interview with Jason Moorhouse, Juan Christian, Geoff Sutcliffe and Steve Crowther.

MWT has more nature reserves and more members in Ayre & Michael than any other constituency, so it is perhaps no surprise that we received a particularly strong response from candidates standing in the constituency (although sadly not from our incumbent MHKs ☹️). 

Paul Weatherall

Paul Weatherall's interest in environmental issues stretches back to his Environmental Sciences studies at Lancaster University and his time volunteering with MWT's Midweek Muckers. He emphasised practical partnership working throughout the interview, arguing that environmental progress must be delivered by: “Working with people who are actually managing the land.”

Paul supported reducing reliance on fossil fuels, updating the Wildlife Act, expanding environmental education, and improving kerbside recycling. He repeatedly highlighted the importance of consultation between landowners, farmers, fishers, government and environmental organisations when identifying opportunities for nature recovery. 

Mary Phillips

Mary Phillips spoke enthusiastically about the Isle of Man's natural beauty, recalling a recent boat trip around the Calf of Man which left her, in her words, "so relaxed and chilled". Her responses focused strongly on wellbeing, education and community engagement. 

She advocated community gardens, school allotments, green prescribing, marine nature reserves and stronger support for regenerative farming. Her preferred environmental priority was improved and more affordable public transport, arguing that reducing car dependency would benefit both people and the environment. 

Julia Bell

A Registered Mental Health Nurse, Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and keen fell runner, Julia Bell consistently linked environmental issues to public health and wellbeing. She was one of the strongest supporters of the 30x30 target and argued that: “We need to increase the amount of protected areas we have.”

Julia spoke about the importance of interconnected habitats, protected areas on land and sea, biodiversity net gain, food hubs and local food production. She repeatedly returned to the idea that nature recovery, healthy soils, food security, air quality and public health are fundamentally connected. 

She also suggested that communication is critical: “You have to try.” referring to the Island's efforts to meet its climate and environmental ambitions. 

Stephen Broad

Stephen Broad chose to provide a detailed written submission rather than take part in an interview. His responses focused heavily on balancing environmental priorities with other social and economic needs and ensuring decisions are reached through what he described as: “Corporate co-management.”

Stephen repeatedly stressed that: “We cannot take any one issue in isolation.”

His answers drew extensively on examples from fisheries management, marine conservation and stakeholder collaboration. He argued that environmental improvements must take account of impacts on other users and repeatedly highlighted the importance of education, cooperation and long-term management. 

Stephen requested that readers be able to access his full response, which can be seen here. 

Common Themes

Despite their different approaches, several themes emerged across the constituency:

• support for reducing reliance on fossil fuels;
• recognition of the importance of local food production and food security;
• support for stronger protection and management of land and sea habitats;
• the importance of working with farmers, fishers and landowners;
• strong links between nature, wellbeing and public health. 

While candidates differed in how they would deliver environmental improvements, they largely agreed that safeguarding the Isle of Man's natural environment is important for future generations and should be achieved through collaboration, education and long-term thinking.

We were unable to interview Alf Cannan, Tim Johnston, Steve Curphey and Phil Corkill.

Douglas Central produced two very different but complementary responses. Both candidates recognised the importance of protecting the Isle of Man's natural environment, but approached the issues from different perspectives. Peter Shimmin focused on community engagement, planning and practical delivery, while Devon Watson approached environmental issues through climate policy, energy security and systems change.

Peter Shimmin

Peter Shimmin spoke about growing up on the Isle of Man and the importance of places such as Millennium Oakwood, where he helped plant trees as a child.

He described nature as one of the qualities that makes the Isle of Man distinctive, arguing that: “That status we have needs to mean something serious and we also have to protect that more as well.”

Peter supported reducing reliance on fossil fuels and saw renewable energy as an important part of improving resilience and energy security.

While broadly supportive of climate action, he expressed concern that the term Net Zero has become politically divisive: “The phrase net zero kind of alienates people, I think, on both sides of the argument now.”

Throughout the interview he emphasised partnership working, better public engagement and stronger connections between government, charities and communities. He also highlighted the importance of supporting volunteers and making it easier for people to find opportunities to get involved in environmental initiatives.

Asked about increasing land and sea managed for nature, Peter supported doing so: “In a sensible and targeted way.”

His preferred first-year environmental priority was an island-wide kerbside recycling scheme, arguing that visible and practical environmental measures help build public support for wider action.

Devon Watson

Devon Watson offered one of the strongest environmental platforms of any candidate interviewed.

Drawing on experience with the Climate Change Coalition and growing up in South Africa, he argued that climate change is already affecting infrastructure, food production and long-term resilience: “It's this looming tide that we can't really avoid.”

He repeatedly stressed that environmental issues are not separate from society or the economy: “The natural environment isn't separate from us.”

Devon strongly supported renewable energy, not only for environmental reasons but also because of the economic and energy-security benefits. He described the current Net Zero target as insufficiently ambitious and argued: “I think it should be moved up.”

He was a strong advocate for habitat restoration, rewilding, peatland recovery, rainforest creation, blue carbon, active travel and public transport. He also called for major reform of agricultural subsidies and argued that farmers should be viewed as partners in environmental recovery rather than opponents.

On protected areas he stated: “We need to be expanding this a lot.”

When discussing planning and development, Devon was clear that housing need not come at the expense of nature. He argued for a much stronger focus on brownfield sites and more efficient use of existing urban space.

Asked what environmental action he would prioritise in his first year as an MHK, his answer was: “Creating an established pathway toward energy independence.”

Common Themes

Although they approached environmental issues differently, both candidates shared several areas of agreement:

• reducing reliance on fossil fuels and improving energy security;
• recognising the importance of green spaces to wellbeing;
• supporting stronger links between communities and nature;
• working collaboratively rather than imposing solutions; and
• looking at environmental issues alongside wider social and economic priorities.

Both candidates also highlighted the importance of long-term thinking and ensuring environmental improvements deliver practical benefits for people as well as nature.

We were unable to interview Chris Thomas, Ann Corlett, Andrea Krüger, George Hargreaves, Creena Mason and Sharon Lee Bridgens.

Clare Barber

Clare's responses reflected both a deep personal connection to the Island's natural environment and significant experience in environmental policy and delivery from her time in government.

She spoke warmly about childhood experiences fishing, spotting basking sharks and exploring the southern coast, describing the Isle of Man's landscapes and wildlife as "magical". Throughout the interview she repeatedly emphasised the importance of bringing people with you when delivering environmental change, particularly farmers, fishers, landowners and local communities.

A recurring theme was that successful nature recovery depends on demonstrating real-world benefits. She highlighted the Western Irish Sea Mud Belt trial closure as an example of nature recovery supporting both biodiversity and fishing livelihoods, and repeatedly stressed the importance of telling positive stories about environmental success. "Everybody I talk to supports nature."

Clare strongly supported nature-based solutions, regenerative farming, 30 by 30, environmental education, social prescribing and greater use of partnerships between government, business and the third sector. She also advocated updating environmental legislation, strengthening invasive species controls and developing a clear pathway to achieve biodiversity commitments.

Her proposed first-year priority was securing a long-term future for the Western Irish Sea Mud Belt based on the evidence emerging from the Blue Carbon project.

Andrew Saunders

Andrew provided a written response rather than taking part in an interview.

A former scuba diving instructor and dive school operator, Andrew expressed a strong personal connection to the marine environment and highlighted his long-standing support for Marine Nature Reserves and marine conservation. He also described encouraging his children and grandchildren to spend time outdoors and engage with nature from an early age.

He opposed long-term reliance on fossil fuels while acknowledging that conventional fuels are likely to remain part of the Island's energy mix during any transition. He expressed support for the direction of travel towards Net Zero but questioned whether legally binding targets were always the best mechanism for achieving progress. "I am a huge fan of our Marine Protection Zones and our wildlife, particularly our marine species."

A recurring theme throughout his response was that elected representatives should remain focused on the priorities being raised by their constituents. While environmental issues were not his primary campaign focus, he was clear that environmental impacts would be an important consideration in any future policy decisions. "Environmental impact will be a significant consideration in any policies I may have to vote on or propose myself."

Constituency overview

The candidates who engaged in Douglas East both expressed strong support for protecting the Island's natural environment, but approached the subject from different perspectives.

Clare drew heavily on her experience of environmental policy, marine conservation and government delivery, with a particular focus on partnership working, nature-based solutions and evidence-led decision-making. Andrew's response reflected a strong personal interest in marine conservation, combined with a more constituency-led approach to environmental priorities.

Common themes included:

• strong support for marine conservation;
• reducing reliance on fossil fuels;
• protecting the Island's natural assets;
• encouraging people, particularly young people, to connect with nature; and
• ensuring environmental considerations are factored into future decision-making.

Both candidates recognised the importance of the Isle of Man's natural environment and the need to balance environmental protection with wider social and economic priorities.

We were unable to get an interview with Joney Faragher, Dave Mackey and Andrew Forster.

Douglas North produced a particularly diverse range of responses, spanning practical community-focused ideas, governance reform, environmental restoration, energy security and biodiversity planning. While the candidates differed in their priorities, all demonstrated support for protecting and improving the Island's natural environment.

David Ashford

David Ashford approached environmental issues through the lens of government, strategy and delivery. He argued that environmental issues underpin many of the challenges facing the Island and should not be viewed in isolation from housing, health, planning or economic policy.

He said: “Environmental issues affect health, economy, energy security, food production, or quality of life.”

David strongly supported renewable energy and increasing land and sea managed for nature, although he questioned whether the current Net Zero pathway remains realistic and argued that targets should be reviewed against deliverability.

A recurring theme throughout the interview was evidence-based decision making. He called for better habitat data, stronger management of existing protected areas, improved habitat connectivity and the development of a funded successor to the Biodiversity Strategy.

On nature-based solutions, David stressed that natural and engineered approaches should be assessed together rather than treated as competing options. He also advocated for accessible green spaces, outdoor learning and bringing nature closer to people in urban areas through pocket parks, trees and community gardens.

His priority for the next administration would be: “A fully funded successor to the Isle of Man Biodiversity Strategy.”

Peter Washington

Peter Washington brought a perspective shaped by his previous work as a countryside ranger in Lancashire and his current role as a Douglas councillor.

He repeatedly returned to the connection between nature and wellbeing, describing how time spent outdoors helped him through some of the most stressful periods of his ambulance service career.

Peter strongly supported peatland restoration and praised the work of the Manx Peat Partnership, arguing that restoring sphagnum-rich peatlands would help store water, reduce wildfire risk and capture carbon.

He also focused heavily on access to nature. Living in Willaston, he proposed creating better links between residential communities, public transport and the countryside so that people could: “Catch a bus and walk home.”

Peter repeatedly emphasised practical partnerships. He cited successful examples from the marine environment where conservation and commercial fishing now work together and described the Western Irish Sea Mud Belt closure as a clear "win-win".

He was also particularly interested in the role nature can play within housing developments. Using Willaston as an example, he suggested introducing features such as swift boxes and wildlife-friendly design as part of estate improvements.

His preferred first-year priority centred on improving the energy efficiency of homes: “How are we going to heat our homes in winter and cool them in summer?”

Hugo Yates

Hugo Yates described moving to the Isle of Man more than twenty years ago and being struck by its green landscapes and expansive views.

He strongly emphasised energy security and local resilience, stating that he opposed dependence on imported fossil fuels. However, unlike many candidates interviewed, he did not support the current legally binding 2050 Net Zero target, arguing that: “We want reliable power we can afford.”

Hugo repeatedly focused on practical local environmental issues. A significant part of the discussion centred on the ponds at Governors Hill, which he feels are neglected and disconnected from the communities around them. He argued that properly maintained green spaces encourage more people to spend time outdoors and strengthen connections with nature.

He was also supportive of farmers, local food production and environmental stewardship, arguing that better support for agriculture would help both nature and food security.

A recurring theme was government agility and implementation. Hugo expressed frustration with slow decision-making processes and believes government should be able to respond more quickly to emerging challenges.

Asked what environmental action he would prioritise during his first year as an MHK, he highlighted: “A distributed solar platform.”

His vision would see solar generation expanded across homes and public buildings to improve energy security and reduce dependency on imported fuels.

Common Themes

Despite approaching issues from different perspectives, all three candidates highlighted several areas of agreement:

• reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels;
• improving energy resilience;
• supporting biodiversity and habitat protection;
• recognising the importance of accessible green spaces for wellbeing;
• working with stakeholders rather than against them;
• and better linking environmental outcomes with wider social and economic priorities.

The differences were generally around scale and delivery rather than principle, with each candidate offering a distinct view of how environmental improvements should be prioritised and implemented within a wider programme of government.

We were unable to get an interview with Janet Thommeny, Damian Ciappelli, Jason Cheetham and Denis Staunton.

Douglas South produced two very different responses, but both candidates highlighted the value of nature in improving people's lives. While Sarah Maltby focused on the links between nature, health, planning and community wellbeing, Livia Lenarduzzi approached environmental issues through access to nature, quality of life and making green spaces part of everyday living.

Sarah Maltby

Sarah Maltby's responses were consistently framed around the relationship between nature and people. Drawing on her background working with young people, families and those with additional needs, she described nature as an important escape from the pressures of everyday life and argued that environmental policy should be viewed through the lens of public health and wellbeing.

She was strongly supportive of increasing the amount of land managed for nature and repeatedly highlighted the value of peatland restoration, brownfield-first development and better connected wildlife corridors. She was particularly impressed by the work of the Manx Peat Partnership and felt that restoration work should be accelerated where possible. 

Sarah was one of the strongest advocates for green prescribing and preventative healthcare, arguing: “It’s not just about investing in our footpaths and pathways. It’s taking a bit of the pressure off Manx Care.”

She also pointed to wider economic benefits: “A £500,000 investment into footpaths and into wildlife is way cheaper than another £4 million or £5 million intervention.”

Throughout the discussion, she returned to the idea that environmental investment should be viewed as infrastructure for health and wellbeing rather than simply as environmental spending. She also expressed strong support for biodiversity net gain, describing it as: “Exactly what legislation should be doing.”

On planning, she championed a brownfield-first approach and showed a keen interest in finding ways to use developer contributions and commuted sums to support both affordable housing and nature-positive development. She was also enthusiastic about community gardening, public rights of way, outdoor education and the role nature can play in helping people reconnect with their communities.

Livia Lenarduzzi

Livia Lenarduzzi approached environmental issues from a different angle, focusing heavily on access to nature and creating greener communities.

Drawing on her experiences living in both the Isle of Man and France, she repeatedly emphasised the importance of larger connected green spaces and being able to access nature directly from where people live. She described her ideal model as villages and housing developments connected to extensive walking routes and wildlife-rich green corridors.

Livia argued: “The more time you spend in nature, the more you start loving it.”

She was one of the strongest supporters of creating additional space for nature and stated that the amount of land and sea managed for nature should increase: “Clearly increase. And according to me, by a lot.”

A recurring theme in her interview was the role nature plays in physical and mental wellbeing. She explained that when stressed she chooses to spend time outdoors rather than relying on medication and argued that nature should be considered before more engineered solutions wherever possible.

Livia was particularly enthusiastic about edible landscapes, repeatedly calling for more fruit and nut trees in public spaces: “I would like to see far more fruit trees and nut trees.”

She linked this directly to long-term food resilience and community wellbeing.

On farming, she argued that public subsidy should result in clear public benefits, including biodiversity, soil health, cleaner water and increased local food production. She also expressed a preference for developments that incorporate green space from the outset and suggested that homes should be designed so that access to nature begins “from your doorstep”. 

Livia was one of the few candidates to oppose the current legally binding Net Zero target, arguing that it would place excessive financial pressure on households and businesses. Nevertheless, she remained strongly supportive of nature recovery, local food production and increased environmental protection.

Common Themes

Despite approaching the issues differently, both candidates identified a number of shared priorities:

• stronger access to nature for local communities;
• investment in green spaces as part of public health and wellbeing;
• support for local food production and stronger links between people and where their food comes from;
• the use of brownfield sites before developing greenfield land;
• greater integration of nature into planning and development decisions.

For both candidates, nature was not simply an environmental issue. It was seen as a foundation for healthier communities, stronger local food systems and a better quality of life for future generations.

We were unable to get an interview with Janet Thommeny, Damian Ciappelli, Jason Cheetham and Denis Staunton.

Sean Bostrom

Sean spoke warmly about first visiting the Isle of Man for the TT and the lasting impression made by the Island's landscape and natural beauty. His career in the Fire and Rescue Service has also given him direct experience of the Island's uplands, glens and countryside, including seeing first-hand the impacts of wildfires and flooding. he described himself as a: "Petrol-head, lefty tree hugger."

He was unequivocal in his support for Net Zero, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and increasing the amount of land and sea managed for nature. A recurring theme throughout the interview was the importance of bringing organisations together and finding practical compromise between different interests: "One of the greatest compliments I've ever had in the workplace was people call me glue."

Sean repeatedly emphasised partnership working between government, charities, conservation organisations and land managers. He spoke positively about the 30 by 30 ambition and highlighted the need to work constructively with farmers, conservation groups and government departments to deliver better environmental outcomes.

He also linked nature strongly to health and wellbeing, describing his own enjoyment of walking, litter picking and outdoor activities, and encouraging greater public participation in looking after the environment.

One of his more distinctive proposals was a ban on disposable barbecues, which he argued would reduce wildfire risk and littering. 

Aishlinn Creer

Aishlinn's interview reflected a strong personal connection to the Island's landscapes and outdoor spaces. A keen walker and traveller, she spoke passionately about the accessibility of nature on the Isle of Man and the importance of protecting what makes the Island special.

She supported reducing reliance on fossil fuels and recognised the importance of achieving Net Zero, although she felt that government must also address pressing challenges around healthcare, housing and public services.

A recurring theme throughout her responses was maintaining and protecting existing natural assets. She highlighted the importance of forests, uplands, marine nature reserves and peatland restoration, while also drawing heavily on her experience of flooding in Laxey: "The pandemic, if it taught us anything, it's the wonderful healing power of nature."

She was particularly supportive of outdoor education, youth engagement and community food-growing projects, arguing that younger generations need more opportunities to experience nature directly.

Aishlinn also expressed concern about the scale of the proposed Môr Vannin offshore wind project, suggesting that environmental protection and renewable energy ambitions must be carefully balanced.

She strongly supported restoring Manx Wildlife Trust's interested-party status within the planning process, arguing that specialist environmental expertise should be considered when major developments are proposed.

Daphne Caine

Daphne demonstrated one of the strongest personal and political connections to environmental issues of any candidate interviewed.

She spoke about a lifelong love of wildlife, glens, waterfalls and seabirds, describing memorable encounters with basking sharks, puffins and the Island's wider natural environment. Her experience in tourism also reinforced her view that the natural environment is one of the Isle of Man's greatest assets.

Notably, Daphne highlighted her role in bringing forward the original Tynwald motion that led to the declaration of a climate and biodiversity emergency and the subsequent development of the Island's climate change framework: "I was the politician who put the motion down to declare the climate and biodiversity crisis."

Daphne strongly supported Net Zero, the 30 by 30 ambition, peatland restoration, marine protection, renewable energy and expanding land managed for nature. She repeatedly emphasised the multiple benefits that nature delivers, including flood protection, biodiversity recovery, public health and tourism.

She was also enthusiastic about outdoor learning, Forest School programmes, community growing projects and improving young people's connection with nature.

A recurring theme throughout her responses was that environmental action should deliver benefits both for people and wildlife: "The Isle of Man could absolutely be a whole nature reserve."

Her priorities included strengthening support for nature-friendly farming, increasing local food production, updating the Wildlife Act and supporting renewable energy technologies that reduce both emissions and household energy costs.

Constituency overview

Garff produced three strongly engaged and environmentally aware responses.

All three candidates expressed a clear personal connection to nature and supported reducing dependence on fossil fuels, protecting wildlife and strengthening the relationship between people and the natural world.

Recurring themes included:

• outdoor education and youth engagement;
• nature as a contributor to physical and mental wellbeing;
• supporting farmers and local food production;
• flood management and peatland restoration;
• stronger partnership working between organisations;
• and protecting the natural landscapes that make the Isle of Man unique.

There were differences of emphasis. Sean focused on collaboration and practical environmental action, Aishlinn highlighted community wellbeing, flooding and concerns around large-scale infrastructure projects, while Daphne brought extensive experience of environmental policy and strongly advocated for continued progress on climate and biodiversity commitments.

Despite those differences, all three recognised the importance of nature to the Island's future and the need to protect and enhance the natural environment for future generations.

We were unable to get an interview with Anthony Allen, Peter Kermeen, Martyn Perkins, Vicki Hewison, Nigel Dunmore and Richard Henthorn.

James Hampton

James provided a detailed written response reflecting both a strong personal connection to nature and a particular interest in public engagement with the environment.

Environmental awareness has been part of James's life from an early age. His grandmother was an early member of the Manx Nature Conservation Trust, while his mother has been heavily involved with Manx BirdLife and the Point of Ayre National Reserve. He also highlighted his own involvement in land management and wildlife-friendly farming practices.

A recurring theme throughout his response was that long-term environmental protection will only succeed if the public understands, values and benefits from nature: "The only viable way to ensure long term protection is to clearly link it to economic interest."

James repeatedly argued that environmental policy must be connected to public engagement, access and economic value. He expressed support for increasing land and sea managed for nature, but stressed that environmental ambitions will only endure if communities understand their benefits and feel ownership of them.

He consistently highlighted public access, footpaths, interpretation and environmental education as priorities, arguing that the Isle of Man underutilises its natural and heritage assets: "You cannot sell the value of our natural assets to the wider public if they cannot easily access and appreciate them."

His proposed first-year priority was improving access to nature through investment in footpaths, interpretation, information and public engagement.

You can read his full response here.

Alex Perriam

Alex spoke from the perspective of a lifelong resident of the west of the Island and repeatedly returned to the importance of protecting the qualities that make the Isle of Man unique.

A businessman, parent and former sports coach, he described nature as inseparable from the Island's identity and emphasised its role in supporting physical and mental wellbeing: "Everything that the Isle of Man is, is its wildlife."

He supported increasing the amount of land and sea managed for nature, restoring rivers and peatlands, tree planting and stronger protection for green spaces within the planning system.

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was resilience. Alex repeatedly stressed the importance of food security, local food production, farming and fishing, arguing that the Island should be better prepared to support itself during future global disruptions.

He was particularly critical of development on greenfield land and strongly supported reinstating MWT's interested-party status within the planning system: "The farmers aren't the problem, they're the solution."

His proposed priority was developing a long-term Island resilience strategy focused on food security, biodiversity, renewable energy and local self-sufficiency.

Katryna Baptist

Katryna provided one of the most detailed and policy-focused interviews of any candidate.

A lifelong outdoor enthusiast who home-educates her children, she described learning about nature as a family through activities such as allotment gardening, cycling, paddlesports, rock pooling and outdoor education.

She expressed strong support for renewable energy, climate action, biodiversity restoration and the principle of 30 by 30: "Climate change is the largest threat that humans have ever faced and we've got to do our part."

Katryna argued that climate action should be presented as an opportunity rather than a burden, highlighting improved health, lower energy costs, cleaner air and economic opportunities as important co-benefits.

She supported:

• the designation of additional ASSIs;
• permanent protection of the Western Irish Sea Mud Belt;
• biodiversity net gain;
• a Manx carbon and biodiversity credit scheme;
• stronger support for nature-friendly farming;
• green prescribing; and
• greater environmental education for both children and adults.

A recurring theme was implementation. She repeatedly argued that policy frameworks already exist in many areas but are not being delivered quickly enough: "I don't think we need to pay for more stuff to be done. I think in a way we kind of know what we need to do, but there's a problem with the delivery."

Her proposed priorities included adopting 30 by 30 and introducing practical wildlife measures such as swift bricks in new developments.

Ray Harmer

Few candidates came into the interview with as much direct experience of environmental policy as Ray.

A former Environment Minister, he spoke extensively about the development of the Island's climate and biodiversity agenda, including peatland restoration, blue carbon and climate policy.

Raised in a farming environment and strongly influenced by a family interest in organic growing and environmental protection, Ray described nature as central to both his personal life and public service: "It's absolutely essential."

Ray strongly supported Net Zero, the 30 by 30 ambition, biodiversity net gain, peatland restoration and increased marine protection. Throughout the interview he repeatedly highlighted the importance of blue carbon and the climate value of the marine environment.

He advocated:

• expanding marine conservation measures;
• supporting nature-friendly farming;
• improving footpaths and public access;
• increasing woodland cover;
• restoring funding for tree planting; and
• developing carbon finance opportunities.

A recurring theme was that the Isle of Man should become an international leader in natural capital and environmental innovation: "I think that's where we can be a world leader."

His proposed first-year priority would be progressing blue carbon initiatives and securing the future of the Western Irish Sea Mud Belt.

Geoffrey Pugh

Geoffrey approached the discussion from a practical and delivery-focused perspective, emphasising the need to balance environmental ambitions with social, economic and infrastructure needs.

Having grown up on the Isle of Man before spending time in Manchester and the Royal Navy, he spoke about the value of both the Island's landscape and marine environment in shaping his outlook.

He expressed support for increasing land and sea managed for nature, renewable energy expansion and Net Zero, while stressing the importance of maintaining public confidence in environmental policy: "We protect what we value and we value what we experience."

A recurring theme throughout his interview was encouraging people to connect directly with nature through outdoor education, volunteering, walking and recreation.

Geoffrey also emphasised:

• collaboration with farmers;
• habitat connectivity;
• proportionate planning processes;
• investment in footpaths and outdoor access;
• continuation of nature-based solutions; and
• updating outdated environmental legislation.

When discussing future priorities, he highlighted the environmental significance of upcoming decisions on both offshore and onshore renewable energy projects.

Constituency overview

Glenfaba & Peel produced a wide range of thoughtful and often detailed responses, with all candidates expressing support for environmental protection and engagement with nature.

Common themes included:

• increasing access to nature and the countryside;
• supporting farmers as partners in environmental recovery;
• expanding land and sea managed for nature;
• improving environmental education and public understanding;
• renewable energy and climate action;
• stronger integration of nature within planning and land management; and
• the importance of connecting environmental goals with economic and community benefits.

Several candidates highlighted food security and local production, while others focused more heavily on biodiversity recovery, blue carbon, environmental governance and climate policy. Across the constituency, there was broad agreement that nature is one of the Island's greatest assets and that long-term success depends on engaging communities, land managers, businesses and government in delivering environmental outcomes.

We were unable to get an interview with Colleen Dale-Beeton, Daniel Davison and Mark Cleator.

Simon Sinclair

Simon's responses were shaped by a lifelong connection with the outdoors. Originally from northern Scotland and living in the Isle of Man since 2007, he spoke about regularly using the Island's plantations, glens, railway trails, beaches and coastal paths both personally and through his work coaching athletics: "It's a beautiful place. It really, really is." and "The more you get out in nature, the more you'll do it and the more you'll enjoy it."

Simon supported Net Zero, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and increasing the amount of land and sea managed for nature. Throughout the conversation he repeatedly highlighted the importance of helping people access and enjoy the natural environment.

A recurring theme was education, accessibility and community involvement. He argued that many people do not realise the opportunities for nature and outdoor recreation available on their doorstep and felt greater promotion was needed to encourage participation.

He supported:

• greater use of brownfield sites for environmental and community projects;
• stronger environmental impact assessments for major developments;
• increased support for sustainable finance and environmental funding;
• community-led nature projects;
• improved environmental education and awareness; and
• stronger collaboration between environmental organisations, government and land managers.

Simon also highlighted concerns around water quality, sustainable agriculture, invasive species, fly-tipping and recycling infrastructure. He argued that environmental improvement requires cooperation between government, charities, businesses and communities.

His proposed first-year priority would be bringing together key stakeholders to modernise the Wildlife Act and improve coordination between government departments, environmental organisations and land managers.

James Cochrane

James drew heavily on his experience growing up in Port Erin, where childhood exploration of the countryside and involvement with the Young Ornithologists Club helped shape his interest in nature.

He expressed clear support for renewable energy, Net Zero and increasing the amount of land and sea managed for nature: "Moving to green technologies" is essential because fossil fuels are neither secure nor affordable.

A recurring theme throughout the interview was pragmatism and evidence-based decision making. James frequently acknowledged areas where he was not a specialist and emphasised the importance of listening to expert advice, scientific evidence and conservation organisations.

He highlighted:

• making greater use of brownfield sites and empty properties;
• protecting and restoring hedgerows, wetlands and marine habitats;
• using nature-based solutions before resorting to expensive engineered alternatives;
• improving outdoor education and access to nature;
• supporting nature-friendly farming through practical incentives; and
• modernising outdated environmental legislation.

When discussing agriculture, he was particularly interested in approaches that make nature recovery part of a viable farm business rather than an additional burden: "Make the nature gains part of the business, not a burden."

He also expressed support for regular environmental monitoring and reporting so that progress on nature recovery and climate commitments can be measured transparently.

His proposed first-year priority would be establishing a clear baseline assessment of the state of Manx nature, alongside progressing modernisation of the Wildlife Act.

Graham Taylor

A farmer with decades of experience in both agriculture and construction, Graham approached environmental issues primarily through the lens of practical land management and food production.

He described having planted thousands of trees, created ponds and wildlife areas and maintained a long-standing interest in conservation: "I'm very passionate about wildlife and the wellbeing of it."

Throughout the interview, Graham repeatedly stressed the importance of practical experience, evidence gathering and education. He argued that environmental policy should be grounded in the experience of those managing land and wildlife day-to-day and frequently called for greater consultation with practitioners.

A recurring theme was the need to better understand ecological pressures, particularly predator-prey relationships and species management. He raised concerns about predation affecting ground-nesting birds and questioned whether some current wildlife protection measures remain appropriate.

He highlighted:

• environmental education beginning in schools;
• protecting agricultural land from unnecessary development;
• greater use of brownfield sites;
• more balanced debate around Net Zero and energy policy;
• stronger engagement with farmers in environmental policy development; and
• a comprehensive review of wildlife legislation.

When discussing climate and environmental priorities, Graham pointed to practical measures such as improving building efficiency, reducing fuel consumption, promoting car sharing and improving understanding of environmental impacts: "Education and understanding of the issues should come before major decisions are taken."

His proposed first-year priority would be improving public understanding of environmental issues through education, evidence gathering and greater engagement with interested stakeholders.

Constituency overview

The Middle constituency candidates approached environmental issues from a variety of perspectives, but several common themes emerged.

Across the interviews there was broad support for:

• reducing reliance on fossil fuels;
• progressing towards Net Zero;
• increasing environmental education and awareness;
• protecting the Island's natural environment for future generations;
• making better use of brownfield sites; and
• updating outdated environmental legislation.

Education emerged as perhaps the strongest shared theme. All three candidates highlighted the importance of helping people, particularly younger generations, develop a stronger connection with nature and understand environmental challenges.

The candidates differed primarily in emphasis. Simon focused on participation, community engagement and practical conservation. James highlighted evidence-based decision making, transparency and partnership working. Graham placed greater emphasis on farming, land management and the practical realities of balancing environmental and agricultural priorities.

Taken together, the responses suggest a constituency where environmental protection enjoys broad support, but where candidates differ in how they would prioritise delivery, governance and the balance between conservation, development and food production.

We were unable to get an interview with Andre Risha, Jason Moore, Alf Caine and Jane Poole-Wilson.

Rob Callister

Rob's responses combined a strong personal appreciation for the Island's natural environment with his experience as Chair of Planning, where environmental considerations form part of day-to-day decision-making.

A lifelong Manx resident, he spoke about regularly spending time in the hills, glens and coastal areas and said environmental considerations are central to assessing development proposals: "We need a more strategic and joined up way of how we deal with existing land and sea."

Rob strongly supported reducing reliance on fossil fuels, maintaining the Net Zero 2050 target and increasing the amount of land and sea managed for nature.

A recurring theme throughout the interview was the importance of better coordination. He repeatedly argued that environmental policy, climate action, biodiversity protection and planning should be brought together through a more coherent and joined-up framework.

He highlighted:

• stronger habitat connectivity;
• improved marine planning;
• mainstreaming nature-based solutions;
• greater public access to nature through footpaths, green corridors and community spaces;
• support for farmers delivering environmental benefits;
• better use of brownfield sites before building on greenfield land; and
• stronger involvement for environmental organisations within the planning process.

Rob also repeatedly stressed that nature recovery will require genuine partnerships across government, communities, charities, businesses and landowners rather than relying on government action alone: "Good development and environmental protection are not mutually exclusive."

His proposed first-year priority would be creating a clearer, more joined-up environmental framework linking climate, biodiversity and land-use policies while strengthening collaboration across sectors.

Rachel Glover

Rachel brought extensive environmental expertise to the discussion, drawing on a background in environmental science, work with Defra, environmental DNA research and seven years as a trustee of Manx Wildlife Trust.

Environmental protection was already a significant part of her professional life before entering politics: "My whole career really has been around the environmental sector in one way or another."

Rachel was one of the strongest supporters of environmental action among all candidates interviewed, giving clear support to Net Zero, renewable energy, biodiversity restoration and increasing land and sea managed for nature.

Throughout the interview she repeatedly emphasised evidence, data and monitoring as the foundation for good environmental decision-making.

She supported:

• greater marine protection and restoration;
• biodiversity net gain within planning;
• green prescribing and nature-based health interventions;
• stronger investment in blue carbon and marine ecosystems;
• protecting and updating environmental legislation;
• environmental reporting requirements for larger companies; and
• improved biosecurity and invasive species management.

A recurring theme was the need to integrate environmental thinking into wider policy areas such as health, finance, planning and economic development: "Once you've lost nature, you don't get it back."

Rachel also highlighted the importance of maintaining and fully utilising the Island's UNESCO Biosphere status, arguing that it should shape decision-making across government rather than simply being a badge of recognition.

Her proposed first-year priority would be ensuring the Island continues to build on and fully implement the ambitions associated with Biosphere status while progressing environmental legislation and biodiversity reporting.

Oliver Lockwood

Oliver approached environmental issues from a policy and governance perspective, often focusing on legislation, evidence gathering and implementation.

Having previously lived in London, he reflected on how access to the Isle of Man's countryside had significantly shaped his appreciation of the natural environment.

He expressed support for:

• Net Zero 2050;
• increasing land and sea managed for nature;
• renewable energy;
• stronger nature protections; and
• greater incorporation of environmental considerations within planning policy.

A consistent theme throughout Oliver's responses was ensuring that existing commitments are fully implemented and properly enforced.

He highlighted:

• expanding Areas of Special Scientific Interest;
• improving marine nature conservation through evidence-led designation;
• implementing biodiversity net gain and sustainability provisions already contained within legislation;
• improving public access through the Island's rights of way network;
• reviewing support available through the Agri-Environment Scheme;
• attracting private investment into nature recovery; and
• regularly reviewing protected species legislation.

Oliver also stressed the importance of improving environmental reporting, certification and governance frameworks so that private sector investment can support nature recovery: "The schedules need to be reviewed regularly."

His proposed first-year priority would be updating and strengthening the Island's biodiversity strategy and bringing international biodiversity commitments more fully into Manx policy.

Constituency overview

Onchan candidates demonstrated particularly strong engagement with environmental issues, although from differing professional and personal perspectives.

Key themes appearing repeatedly across the constituency included:

• support for Net Zero and reducing reliance on fossil fuels;
• increasing land and sea managed for nature;
• stronger biodiversity protection and habitat restoration;
• greater use of nature-based solutions;
• improving planning policy and biodiversity net gain;
• better public access to nature and environmental education;
• stronger collaboration between government, charities, businesses and landowners; and
• updating environmental legislation and governance frameworks.

The candidates differed mainly in emphasis. Rob focused heavily on strategic governance, planning and partnership working. Rachel brought a science-led perspective centred on biodiversity, monitoring, legislation and environmental evidence. Oliver concentrated on policy implementation, governance and ensuring environmental commitments are properly enacted.

Taken together, the Onchan candidates provided some of the strongest and most detailed environmental responses in the election process, reflecting a constituency where climate change, biodiversity, planning and environmental governance feature prominently within political debate.

We were unable to get an interview with Gabriella Corkish, Julie Edge and Peter Karran.

Lawrie Hooper

Lawrie approached environmental issues from a pragmatic policy perspective, focusing on long-term planning, effective governance and creating incentives that align environmental outcomes with economic benefits.

Although he described himself as "not really a very outdoorsy kind of guy", he spoke about the value of growing up in Ramsey, where natural spaces are woven into daily life: "It's very hard to avoid the natural environment in Ramsey."

Lawrie strongly supported reducing reliance on fossil fuels, maintaining the Net Zero 2050 target and increasing the amount of land and sea managed for nature. However, he consistently framed environmental action through the lens of practical benefits such as affordability, energy security, economic resilience and community wellbeing.

A major theme throughout the discussion was making environmental action work for people.

When discussing energy policy, he argued that reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels is as much an economic issue as an environmental one: "We are literally burning money."

Lawrie highlighted:

• accelerating renewable energy deployment and energy efficiency;
• stronger interim milestones on the journey to Net Zero;
• expanded marine spatial planning and marine conservation;
• greater use of nature-based solutions through planning and flood management;
• long-term funding approaches rather than annual budget cycles;
• partnership working with farmers to improve environmental outcomes; and
• biodiversity net gain within the planning system.

He repeatedly emphasised the importance of incentives, arguing that environmental outcomes are most sustainable when they align with economic interests.

This was particularly evident in his support for marine conservation measures that improve fisheries productivity, and for agricultural support schemes that reward sustainable land management: "Let's help them make money in the way we want them to make money."

Lawrie also discussed the need to move beyond short-term political and budget cycles. He argued that many environmental challenges require long-term planning horizons and suggested that government should adopt multi-year funding models to support sustained investment and better decision-making.

A further theme was outcome-focused policymaking. Rather than starting with legislation itself, he argued that government should first identify the environmental outcome being sought and then determine the most effective mix of policy, funding and legislative change needed to achieve it.

In planning and development, he supported strengthening biodiversity net gain requirements while continuing to balance environmental protection with the need for housing and economic development.

His proposed first-year priority would be transforming the Island's approach to energy generation and energy efficiency, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels while improving affordability, energy security and environmental performance.

We were unable to get an interview with Juan McGuiness, Robert Cowell, Janine Shimmin and Peter Whiteway.

Simon Williams

Simon's responses were strongly influenced by a lifetime spent outdoors in the south of the Island. Growing up around Port Erin, Gansey and the south-west coastline, he described decades of experience as a recreational angler, kayaker and boat owner, giving him a direct view of environmental change over time.

He highlighted examples of successful conservation, particularly in fisheries management, noting the return of species such as bass and spur dog following stronger protections: "It works. It's so obvious it works."

Simon supported reducing reliance on fossil fuels, increasing land and sea managed for nature, and progressing towards Net Zero, although he stressed the importance of taking the public with policymakers rather than relying solely on targets and mandates.

A recurring theme throughout the interview was public engagement. He repeatedly argued that environmental progress depends on involving people directly in activities such as tree planting, habitat restoration and community conservation projects.

He supported:

• expanding marine protected areas and managed fisheries zones;
• restoring peatlands, wetlands and native woodland;
• strengthening environmental education, particularly through schools;
• supporting farmers to deliver wildlife-friendly land management;
• biodiversity net gain within planning decisions;
• long-term environmental funding mechanisms; and
• greater public participation in conservation projects.

Drawing on his experience with recreational fisheries and community groups, Simon frequently highlighted examples where conservation measures had delivered both environmental and economic benefits: "Nature itself shows us how we should live our lives."

He was particularly interested in practical, visible action that communities can engage with directly.

His proposed first-year priority would be developing community-led litter reduction and environmental stewardship programmes, particularly through schools and youth organisations, to build long-term civic pride and environmental awareness.

Michelle Haywood

Michelle brought one of the strongest levels of environmental expertise among all candidates interviewed. With a background in environmental science, teaching and marine survey work, environmental issues were a central motivation for entering politics: "It was probably one of the driving reasons for me standing for Parliament in the first place."

She gave clear and unequivocal support to Net Zero, renewable energy, the 30 by 30 target and increasing both land and sea managed for nature.

A consistent theme throughout the interview was the need to embed biodiversity and nature recovery directly into government decision-making processes. Michelle repeatedly argued that environmental considerations should become a core part of planning, infrastructure, housing and energy policy rather than being treated as a separate issue.

She supported:

• statutory biodiversity net gain requirements;
• stronger habitat protection and restoration;
• marine spatial planning and marine conservation;
• climate adaptation through nature-based solutions;
• rewilding and ecosystem restoration;
• stronger environmental legislation;
• enhanced public engagement with nature; and
• greater integration of climate and biodiversity considerations into government decision-making.

Michelle also highlighted the importance of recognising the economic value of nature and the opportunity provided by the Isle of Man's Biosphere status. She argued that environmental protection should be seen as supporting long-term economic resilience rather than competing against it.

A significant focus of her answers was strengthening legislative frameworks so that biodiversity recovery becomes a statutory responsibility rather than a voluntary aspiration: "Returning the Island to being slightly wilder than it was."

Her proposed first-year priority would be introducing statutory biodiversity net gain requirements and beginning a broader review of environmental legislation, including the 1990 Wildlife Act.

Laurence Vaughan-Williams

Laurence provided a written response which reflected a strong personal concern about environmental decline and habitat loss.

Drawing on his childhood experiences in the Southport area, he described witnessing significant urban expansion and the loss of natural habitats, ponds and wildlife over time: "The more we concrete over the Isle of Man, the less room there is for wildlife."

Laurence expressed support for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and increasing space for nature where compatible with food production. However, he did not support the current Net Zero 2050 target, describing it as impractical.

Throughout his response, recurring themes included conservation, food security and environmental education.

He supported:

• greater use of nature-based solutions;
• public education around environmental issues;
• stronger support for local food production;
• encouraging use of local produce and Manx grains;
• requiring developments to include green space and habitat features;
• incentives for landowners, farmers and developers to support conservation; and
• protecting endangered species and ecosystems.

Laurence also repeatedly stressed the importance of food security, arguing that local food production and environmental protection should be developed together rather than seen as competing objectives: "We must all work together to protect our ecosystem."

His proposed first-year priority would be strengthening the Island's food security while protecting environmental assets and investigating the decline of insect populations and wider ecosystem health.

Constituency overview

The Rushen candidates demonstrated broad support for environmental protection, although their priorities and approaches varied significantly.

Common themes across the constituency included:

• reducing dependence on fossil fuels;
• increasing the amount of land and sea managed for nature;
• supporting nature-based solutions;
• greater environmental education and public engagement;
• stronger connections between environmental protection and food security; and
• recognition of the Isle of Man's unique environmental assets.

The candidates differed most clearly in emphasis. Simon focused on community action, participation and practical conservation. Michelle concentrated on legislation, governance and embedding biodiversity into decision-making frameworks. Laurence highlighted conservation, local food production and environmental stewardship through education and incentives.

Several candidates also highlighted the importance of involving communities directly in environmental action, whether through volunteering, litter reduction, habitat restoration or greater public understanding of nature.

Taken together, the Rushen responses suggest strong support for environmental improvement, with candidates differing primarily in whether they see legislative reform, community engagement or food security as the most effective route to achieving long-term environmental outcomes.

We were unable to get an interview with Michael Crowe. Mark Kemp, Gary Chambers and Helen Sheppard.