A new short film titled “Heart of the Biosphere” is set to shine a light on what many are calling “one of Britain’s most remote and fragile natural habitats.” The film focuses on the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere (GSAB), which covers nearly 9,800 square kilometers (approximately 3,800 square miles) of land and sea in southwest Scotland. The premiere is scheduled for October 16 at the Newton Stewart cinema, delivering a powerful message that emphasizes the need for “urgent action to secure a future for all living things” in the area.
To dive deeper into the concept of a biosphere, it’s recognized for its unique landscape, wildlife, heritage, and educational opportunities. Importantly, it does not enforce new rules or regulations; rather, it promotes collaboration aimed at fostering a “better future for people and nature.” The GSAB emphasizes four primary functions: conservation, learning, development, and tackling climate change. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the first biosphere in Scotland and is part of a global network of hundreds of similar regions.
As the largest UNESCO biosphere in the UK, GSAB’s new film explores ongoing initiatives to promote conservation and restore natural habitats. Ed Forrest, director of GSAB, described “Heart of the Biosphere” as “a call to action to protect the precious upland landscapes and habitats of Galloway, which are vital to sustaining life as we know it.” He underscored the global importance of patterned blanket bogs due to their remarkable carbon-storing capabilities and the rich biodiversity they support. “It’s crucial to help others grasp the importance of these remote ecosystems for ecological health, cultural heritage, and socio-economic well-being,” Forrest added.
The film project captures a full year of seasonal transitions. Director Anthony Howell of Lilac Howell Films shared his excitement about documenting this extraordinary location. “This project was very much a team effort, with a single-member crew filming on-site, supported by partner organizations and the biosphere’s officer team. The landscapes within the UNESCO biosphere are incredible, perfectly illustrating their significance in supporting communities and lifestyles as we trace the rivers flowing from the Galloway Hills.” Howell concluded, “We are thrilled that ‘Heart of the Biosphere’ is bringing these wild uplands to life and sharing this unique sense of place with a diverse audience both in Scotland and around the globe, inspiring positive actions to ensure its future.”
