Environment

Issues and Concerns

Jersey residents have long recognised the need to protect the fragile ecosystems on the island and has passed legislation that controls among other things: property ownership, land use zoning, job creation, economic growth and even the maximum width of Jersey’s roads! Long before environmental protection became fashionable, Jersey worked hard to maintain the island’s natural beauty and in 1997 became the first island to gain Green Globe status.

The States of Jersey - the island’s governing body – has proved its commitment to the environment by employing Countryside Managers for many years and, in the last two years, creating the posts of Environmental Advisor to the States of Jersey, Environmental Director at the planning and Environment Department together with an ecologist and team of rangers. In 1983 the Island Planning Law was amended to allow for the designation of sites of high ecological value as Sites of Special Interest and three such sites have been approved. A further twelve sites are in the throws of being designated

In order to help visitors to Jersey experience the islands’ beauty and diverse flora & fauna on foot, the island has developed over 350 miles of coastal and inland paths, promenades, woodland walks and Green Lanes – the latter have a 15mph speed limit to allow walkers, cyclists and horse-riders to take precedence over the motor car - these lanes are identified by a specially designed logo at their start and end. It is now possible to walk the entire perimeter of the island via a coastal path or promenade. Guided nature walks take place from May to September each year with a qualified guide who works as the Information Officer at the Environmental Services Unit.

In order to encourage both residents and visitors to get out of their cars, Jersey has developed a rural Cycling Network that includes 96 miles of cycle routes throughout the countryside. Other associated developments designed to encourage cycling include the provision of free, guided cycle tours for visitors, public art projects and a series of high quality maps and guides.

Seven of Jersey’s beaches have achieved the standards to be included in the Marine Conservation Society’s “Good Beach Guide”, these are the “Le Braye” & “Watersplash” areas in St Ouen’s Bay; Beauport Bay; Portelet Bay; Green Island; Archirondel and Bouley Bay.

PTGH wish to thank Jersey Tourism for their help in providing the above information.
15/11/07