In August 2020 the Climate Change policy for Guernsey was approved which sets the target to be carbon neutral by 2050. It also sets an interim target of reducing emissions by 57% on 1990 levels by 2030.
Guernsey is already being affected by climate change. We are experiencing changing weather patterns, which is putting additional strain on the Island's infrastructure. This will only get worse as average temperatures and sea levels continue to rise. Our actions must reflect the severity of the climate crisis, but there will also be opportunities for the development and diversification of our economy, adapting health and wellbeing initiatives and to realise environmental benefits.
Working to mitigate the effects of and adapting to the impacts of climate change is a global challenge. Guernsey must play its part even though it is a small jurisdiction. There is also a need to act quickly with a focus on the areas that Guernsey can deliver most effectively and have the greatest impact.
Relatively good progress has been made to date, with the existing undersea electricity cable to France via Jersey reducing Guernsey's carbon emissions by around 35% on 1990 levels. However, more must be done to achieve the reductions in greenhouse gas emissions that are necessary in order to avert dangerous levels of global warming.
Use the tiles below to find out more about the different areas through which Guernsey will achieve these targets.
