Our Sustainable Business Initiative recently hosted a workshop focused on one of the most critical challenges of our time: climate change.

Our goal? To brainstorm with our members and identify actionable ways we can all contribute to making a real difference. The workshop was filled with lively discussions, creative ideas, and a shared commitment to mitigate the impact of climate change on our businesses and community.

Here’s What We’re Doing Next:

We’re not just talking the talk; we’re walking the walk. Here’s an overview of the steps we’re taking to turn those workshop ideas into reality:

  1. Advocating to the Government: We’ve drafted a letter to the Government with a clear set of asks. We want climate change considerations to be at the heart of all strategic and operational decisions by every Deputy and Civil Servant. This isn’t just a ‘nice to have’—it’s a necessity for our future.
  2. Engaging with the Finance Industry: We’re reaching out to other finance industry organisations to share the innovative ideas generated during our workshop. Climate change is a collective challenge, and we believe that by working together, we can drive meaningful change across sectors.
  3. Supporting the Nature Commission: We’ve offered our support to the Nature Commission to help build stronger connections between the business community and initiatives aimed at delivering the island’s Nature Strategy. Nature and business aren’t separate—they are two sides of the same coin, and together, we can achieve so much more.
  4. Influencing Future Policy: We’re building our climate asks into our manifesto for the 2025 elections. We believe in leading by example and influencing policy to ensure that climate action remains a top priority.

What We’re Asking of the Government:

So, what exactly are we pushing for? Here are the key areas we’re focusing on in our communication with the Government:

  • Shared Responsibility: We’re calling for climate change considerations to be integrated into all planning and decision-making processes across all levels of government. Every Deputy, every Civil Servant—everyone has a role to play.
  • Clear Guidance for Net Zero: We need straightforward, actionable advice for businesses and citizens alike on how to contribute effectively to achieving Net Zero. Let’s remove the guesswork and make it easier for everyone to do their part.
  • Detailed Transport Guidelines: The transition to greener transport is essential, and we’re asking for detailed guidelines to help make this transition smooth and effective.
  • Leadership by Example: The States should lead by example, particularly through the activities of the States Trading Supervisory Board (STSB) and the States Investment Board (SIB). If we want others to follow, we must first show them the way.
  • Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs): We’re advocating for the rapid rollout of EPCs to help assess and improve energy efficiency across the board. Knowledge is power, and understanding our energy performance is the first step to improving it.
  • Resource Allocation: Tackling climate change will require resources—both financial and human. We’re fully behind efforts to secure the necessary funding and manpower to ensure we can meet our climate goals.

How You Can Get Involved:

We can’t do this alone, and we don’t want to. This is a collective effort, and every voice, every action counts.

If you’re passionate about driving climate action and want to be part of this journey, we’d love to hear from you. Whether you have ideas, want to join our initiatives, or simply want to stay informed and spread the word, there’s a place for you in this movement.

Message alice@guernseychamber.com if you’d like to get involved.