"Environmental protection remains a key priority"

The government insists that environmental protection remains a key priority, despite not including it in its published Common Strategic Policy (CSP).

The CSP outlines 11 cross-government priorities for the next four years, which include:

• Targeted action on the cost of living
• Restoring competitiveness
• Investing in Jersey
• Maintaining financial stability

There wasn't one for the natural environment, which has been criticised by Jersey Trees for Life.

The charity said by not doing so, the Council of Ministers is treating Jersey’s environmental foundations as secondary to the ambitions they support.

Alex Morel, CEO of Jersey Trees for Life, said:

"The natural environment is the bedrock of our existence. Government cannot credibly promise a healthier, more prosperous and resilient island while leaving the living systems that sustain it outside its central priorities.

"Nature is not an optional extra or a departmental side issue. It is the foundation of Jersey’s economy, public health and quality of life."

The government stated that it's long-term vision as 'an island loved for its beautiful coast and countryside, rich heritage, diverse wildlife and clean air, land and water'.

But Jersey Trees for Life said that vision is hollow if protecting the natural environment isn't one of its priorities over the next four years.

The charity called on Ministers and States members to amend the CSP by adding the protection and restoration of the natural environment as a core priority - with named Ministerial responsibility, measurable outcomes, public reporting, and a funded delivery programme.

Ms Morel added:

"Jersey’s natural environment is under considerable pressure from climate change, invasive non-native species, newly imported pests and diseases, development and declining soil and water quality.

"We therefore urge our government to commit to protecting our natural resources for the benefit of the entire community.

"It appears that only around £8 million is allocated to the 'Natural Environment for 2027' and we don’t know how this will be spent.

"We’re calling for a dedicated government tree officer, with responsibility for tree protection, to provide specialist arboricultural advice on planning applications and ultimately to deliver the published tree strategy."

The government lodged an amendment to the CSP yesterday (27 October) to deliver practical improvements to Jersey’s countryside, coast and biodiversity through closer partnership with farmers, landowners, fishers and communities.

In a statement, the government said:

"The Council of Ministers recognises that Jersey’s natural environment is fundamental to our wellbeing, economy and quality of life.

"One of the first actions of this Government was to establish a dedicated Minister for Environment, Agriculture and Fisheries, giving greater focus to environmental protection and enhancement.

"The Council of Ministers has earlier today (27 October) lodged an amendment to the Common Strategic Policy that strengthens commitments to biodiversity, the Marine Spatial Plan, rural and marine industries, and the protection of Jersey’s countryside, coastline and marine environment. Environmental protection remains a key Government priority."