Environmental Credentials

This week I was interviewed by Manx Wildlife Trust as part of their General Election candidate series, discussing my views on nature, conservation and the environment ahead of the election.

Environmental issues have been an important part of my life for many years. Growing up on Moorhouse Farm gave me a deep appreciation of the countryside and the natural world, while later living in Hong Kong exposed me to the challenges of pollution, overdevelopment and habitat loss.

My environmental involvement extends beyond the Isle of Man. I became involved in marine conservation work in Hong Kong, served on the Board of Plastic Oceans UK, which later became Ocean Generation and worked alongside founder Joanna Ruxton and other campaigners to raise awareness of marine pollution and plastic waste. I was also privileged to attend an environmental event at the Palace of Westminster alongside Sir David Attenborough to promote action on ocean conservation. Ocean Generation grew from the award-winning documentary A Plastic Ocean and continues to educate and inspire people around the world about protecting our oceans. https://oceangeneration.org

oceangeneration.org

Want to learn about the Ocean? Join the Ocean Generation

Ocean Generation is the charity that translates complex Ocean science into engaging content, programmes and practical actions. We use film and popular culture to bring the Ocean to everyone, everywhere because the Ocean is keeping us all alive.

During my interview with Manx Wildlife Trust, I spoke about the importance of putting biodiversity recovery back at the heart of environmental policy, protecting our landscapes and marine environment, improving water quality, tackling invasive species and ensuring that nature is properly considered in planning decisions.

I also stressed that conservation works best when people work together. Farmers, fishermen, landowners, environmental organisations and local communities all have an important role to play. Those who manage our land and seas are not the problem – they are a vital part of the solution.

As a farming family, we understand the importance of balancing food production, environmental stewardship and rural livelihoods. The best outcomes come from practical partnerships that deliver benefits for nature while supporting the people who live and work in our countryside and coastal communities.

My guiding principle is simple: we are custodians of the Island’s environment and should aim to leave it in a better condition than we inherited it for future generations.

Thank you to Manx Wildlife Trust for the opportunity to discuss these important issues.

-- Kirrie Jenkins.