The theme for IIEM25, “Collaboration for Greater Impact”, ran throughout the three days of the programme. Presentations and discussions highlighted how linking efforts can achieve more for wildlife conservation, reforestation, marine protection, and community wellbeing than any organisation could alone. The congress aimed to demonstrate that by coming together and working across sectors, environmental and community projects can both safeguard wildlife and create lasting benefits for people.

Delegates highlighted the inclusive and positive atmosphere. One participant reflected:

“What a brilliant conference – I don’t think I have attended one which was as collaborative and attended by so many linked stakeholders across environmental, charity, public and private sectors.”

Another added:

“This has most probably been the best conference I have ever been to… The spirit and uplifting nature of the whole event is so energising. With people in a conference like this it really does give hope for future generations.”

The event included talks on projects protecting Risso’s dolphins, seals, freshwater species, birds and butterflies amongst others, and topics including restoration of natural habitats, from peatland recovery to forest regeneration. There was also a themed session on conservation in communities, including education programmes, outdoor learning and the role of community-led initiatives in supporting both wildlife and people’s wellbeing.

The event was made possible through sponsorship from Visit Isle of Man, Taxa Genomics, Appleby and Lloyds Bank International with Conister Bank supporting the drinks reception at Government House. Culture Vannin also provided grant support for a poem, written specifically for IIEM25 by the Manx Bard, Jordanne Kennaugh, called ‘Guardians’ and local young traditional music band, Scran, to play at the reception. 

A Silver Anniversary to Remember

This was the first time IIEM was hosted in the Isle of Man, with the Villa Marina providing a fitting venue to mark the 25th anniversary of the congress. Over the years, the meeting has become a valued platform for collaboration, linking wildlife conservationists, researchers, and community organisations.

Innovation Through Collaboration

For the first time, IIEM25 included a third day dedicated to cross-sector collaboration. This featured a keynote by Jonathan Andrews of Remarkable Partnerships, exploring how environmental NGOs and the business sector can identify synergies and create high-integrity support and improvement.

The day concluded with the Collaboration Challenge, a Dragon’s-den-style competition in which projects from across the British Islands pitched for funding. Winners were:

• Thie Ny Shee (Isle of Man) – 1st place, £1,500 – for transforming school grounds into vibrant outdoor spaces that combine education, therapy, and nature.

• Alderney Wildlife Trust – 2nd place, £500 – for its “Once and Future Woodland Project” to restore native woodland.

• Jersey Marine Conservation – Judges’ Commendation, £125.

• Outdoor Learning Centre, Isle of Man – Judges’ Commendation, £125.

The Inter-island Environment meeting will be held in Guernsey next year with provisional dates being the 30th September to the 2nd October. Those interested in attending can sign up for updates at https://www.ukotcf.org.uk/inter-island-environment-meeting/. Presentations and video recordings of IIEM25 can be found at www.mwt.im/iiem25