This policy area aims to ensure that Jersey’s unique natural environment is protected for future generations.
Jersey's natural resources must be managed and used responsibly. Things to consider include:
- Jersey’s air and soil quality
- a protected water supply
- the amount of waste we produce and how we treat it
- carbon neutrality
To address the climate crisis, Jersey committed to the Paris Agreement. This says that Jersey must significantly reduce the carbon emissions it produces. Jersey’s Carbon Neutral Roadmap (2022) outlines the range of policies that will transition the Island away from a reliance on fossil fuels.
There are now opportunities for renewable forms of energy like offshore wind or tidal range technologies. Jersey is becoming a centre for excellence for blue carbon sequestration (this is where large areas of grass seabeds are planted, which absorb carbon and contribute to biodiversity). However, current challenges to Islanders include the affordability of energy and the cost of living.
Key issues:
- Climate change
- Meeting carbon emission targets
- Sustainable water and waste management
- Soil and air quality
- Long-term planning and funding of infrastructure
The lead ministers for the environment is Steve Luce.
Climate emergency
gov.je