Island Businesses Invited to Learn How To Help Wildlife At Free Nature Seminar

Island businesses are being encouraged to look at how their workplaces and surrounding environments could better support local wildlife, as a free seminar aims to highlight the role organisations can play in nature recovery.

With one in six UK species at risk of extinction, the Island Nature Businesses for Biodiversity Seminar will offer guidance, inspiration and practical advice on how businesses of any size can help create habitats and improve conditions for wildlife – whether at offices, hotels, shops, factories or even home-based workplaces.

Organisers say the event is not just about meeting environmental expectations, but about making smart choices that benefit both nature and business, with growing interest from regulators, investors, insurers and customers in organisations that show real commitment to sustainability.

The seminar will outline the Isle of Wight’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy and explain simple, achievable actions businesses can take.

These could include changing planting schemes, installing bird or bat boxes, reducing unnecessary lighting, adapting mowing schedules, or making space for nature within car parks and development plans.

Ian Boyd from The Common Space said even small changes can make a big difference:

“Simple changes to everyday business life and spaces can make all the difference to the survival of wildlife – plant choices, bird and bat boxes, reducing lighting for darker skies, when or where you mow… right through to making provision for nature in development and sharing knowledge beyond the Island.

"We have a plan that helps businesses identify priority species and actions, linking directly with national strategy and the Island’s future prosperity.”

The event is being supported by The Common Space, Isle of Wight Council, the Green Impact Scheme and the IW Chamber of Commerce.

Event Details

What: Island Nature – Businesses for Biodiversity Seminar

When: Wednesday 21 January 2026 (12pm – 1.30pm)

Where: Quay Arts, Newport – Seminar Room

The seminar is free to attend, and businesses will be able to learn more about the Local Nature Recovery Strategy and how to take practical steps to support wildlife locally.

Those wishing to attend can book by emailing claire@thecommonspace.org.uk.

Attendees are welcome to purchase their own refreshments from the Quay Arts café during the event.