The Isle of Wight is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where biodiversity conservation, cultural heritage, and sustainable development are closely connected. Around 75% of the island is protected through various environmental designations, while the southeast coastal zone faces major pressures from erosion, flooding, and climate change.
The case study focuses on the Eastern Yar watershed and the Biosphere Core Coastal Zone, where sea-level rise, storm intensity, and coastal squeeze threaten communities, infrastructure, and valuable habitats. Nature-based solutions are increasingly seen as essential for building long-term resilience.
Lead Aridane Gonzalez:
"BGG helps all levels of administration, NGOs, businesses and residents work together on the Canary Islands"
Interview
Problem statement
Problem statement
The main challenge on the Isle of Wight is the fragmented governance of coastal and marine management, combined with short-term decision-making and limited public understanding of coastal risks. Current policies often rely on “hold the line” strategies, prioritising expensive coastal defence maintenance rather than adaptive long-term planning. Multiple overlapping designations such as MCZs, SSSIs, RAMSAR sites, and the Biosphere Reserve further complicate ownership, responsibilities, and stakeholder engagement. At the same time, poor water quality, tourism pressure, youth outmigration, and limited funding increase vulnerability across the island.
Impact
The case study highlights the need to shift from reactive coastal defence toward integrated land-sea governance that combines infrastructure, ecosystem restoration, and community resilience. Projects such as the Eastern Yar floodplain restoration show how reconnecting rivers to historic floodplains can reduce flooding while improving biodiversity. Stakeholders also stressed the importance of improving ocean literacy, making policy more accessible, and involving local communities more actively in decision-making. The Isle of Wight demonstrates how island communities can become testing grounds for innovative coastal adaptation and long-term blue-green governance.
Workshops
Workshop 1
Stakeholder insights
Workshop 2
Vulnerability Assessment
Workshop 3
Governance Challenges and Future Planning
