The two-day conference marks the sixth time that Alderney has hosted the IIEM, with delegates from across the Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Isle of Wight and the UK.
Founded in 2000, the IIEM brings together Island governments, charities, businesses and individuals working in the environmental sector annually.
More than 90 delegates are due to attend with around 40 expected to make their way to the Island in person.
Alderney has always played an important role in the IIEM, arranging some of the most diverse programmes. In 2019, Alderney hosted the Wilder Islands Conference alongside the IIEM and more than 120 delegates took part from islands across the British Isles and North Atlantic. Not only do the meetings showcase Alderney’s rich natural environment, they also have a significant impact on the local economy.
The theme of this year’s meeting is ‘sharing knowledge and developing best practice’. The talks will also have a focus on how to respond to the increasing number of environmental emergencies, especially poignant given the impact of avian influenza this year and the continued battle with invasive species such as Asian hornets.
This year’s speakers will include representatives of the various Channel Island States, the Isle of Wight Council, Isle of Man and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trusts and the British Trust for Ornithology among others. In total there will be 20 presentations and a further five workshops focussing on establishing new collaborations between the various islands.
The conference itself will be held in the Orangery at the Georgian House Hotel in Victoria Street. It is hosted by the States of Alderney and the Alderney Wildlife Trust (through support from Charles Asprey) and has been made possible thanks to support from KPMG in the Crown Dependencies.
