The Isle of Rum in the Inner Hebrides has officially become Scotland’s first International Dark Sky Sanctuary, recognizing its exceptional night skies and efforts to protect and promote them. This achievement is the result of a 2.5-year collaborative effort between the Isle of Rum Community Trust and NatureScot to preserve the island’s natural and cultural resources.
The unique setting of the island, with its remote location and naturally dark night skies, made it an ideal candidate for the prestigious designation. The certification ensures that the habitat of the island’s residents, including one of the world’s largest breeding colonies of Manx shearwater, will be protected for years to come. Fliss Fraser, a director of the Isle of Rum Community Trust, expressed the community’s pride in achieving Dark Sky Sanctuary status, highlighting the significance of the achievement for the community and for Scotland.
The preservation of the island’s natural and cultural resources is crucial for the survival of many species, particularly the Manx shearwater. Leslie Watt, NatureScot’s national nature reserve manager for Rum, emphasized the importance of dark skies for many species, stating that “dark skies are vital for many species to thrive, and this is especially so for Rum’s population of Manx shearwater. By protecting our night skies, we can ensure the island remains a safe haven for these birds and the many other species that make Rum so special.”
Scotland’s Isle of Rum Achieves Special Dark Sky Designation
The Isle of Rum’s achievement is a significant milestone, not only for Scotland but also globally, as one of only 20 International Dark Sky Sanctuaries worldwide. The island’s Dark Sky Sanctuary status is a beacon of hope for small communities around the world to follow suit and preserve their own natural and cultural resources. The achievement is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Isle of Rum Community Trust and NatureScot, and serves as an inspiration for other communities to take action to protect their own unique environments and natural habitats.
The certification of the Isle of Rum as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary is a recognition of the community’s efforts to preserve the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is a reminder of the importance of protecting our natural world and the role that small communities can play in preserving it. The achievement serves as a model for other communities to follow, demonstrating that even the smallest actions can have a significant impact on the preservation of our planet’s natural resources.
