A pioneering partnership designed to manage the natural environment has appointed its first chairman.
Alan Knight, a leading figure in environment and sustainability issues, has been chosen to lead the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Environment Partnership.
The appointment was welcomed by Julian German, chairman of the Environment Partnership Initiation Board and Selection Panel.
"Alan brings a wealth of experience in the corporate world and has played a major role in persuading people that good business is green business," he said.
"Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are committed to making sure that the future has a healthy environment and economy.
"Alan's knowledge of how to put sustainability principles into practice is just what we need to ensure that the beautiful and sensitive environment of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly which we all love, can support our communities."
Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly was chosen as one of the country's first Local Nature Partnerships by the Government in 2012. Their aim is to help local areas to manage the natural environment for the benefit of nature, people and the economy by drawing together key people.
It will work alongside the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership and the two Health and Wellbeing Boards to establish a coordinated approach between environment, wellbeing and the economy.
Mr Knight is currently the sustainability director of Business in the Community, which works with The Prince of Wales to provide guidance to a wide range of national businesses.
He has 25 years experience in managing the balance between environment and the corporate world and is a panellist on the UK Independent Panel on Forestry and chair of DEFRA's sustainable growing media panel.
Mr Knight, who lives in Perranporth, has detailed knowledge of the coastal environment and has completed a Phd looking at the impact of china clay waste off the coast of Cornwall.