MINISTERS have moved to strengthen environmental commitments in the government’s proposed priorities for the next four years.
The Council of Ministers said it had lodged an amendment to the Common Strategic Policy for 2026–2030 covering biodiversity and protection of Jersey’s countryside, coastline and marine environment.
It comes after Jersey Trees for Life described leaving nature out of the government’s 11 proposed priorities as a “fundamental strategic error”.
Chief executive Alex Morel said: “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 charity said commitments to tackle climate change and achieve net zero do not cover other essential work, including restoring habitats, protecting trees and preventing the spread of pests and diseases.
Ministers responded: “The Council of Ministers recognises that Jersey’s natural environment is fundamental to our wellbeing, economy and quality of life.”
They pointed to the establishment of a dedicated Minister for Environment, Agriculture and Fisheries as one of the government’s first actions.
The amendment adds supporting wording committing ministers to a Biodiversity Strategy underpinned by a State of Nature Report.
Ministers said this will help recognise nature’s economic value and reinforce that environmental spending is “an investment rather than a cost”.
The amendment also includes implementation of the Marine Spatial Plan and Rural and Marine Support Schemes, support for local produce, improved use of public land and volunteering.
“Environmental protection remains a key government priority,” ministers said.
