5 Ways to live more sustainably in Guernsey
Guernsey’s natural beauty and close-knit community make it the perfect place to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.
From local traditions to innovative eco-initiatives, here are five simple and impactful ways to reduce your environmental footprint while supporting the island’s unique culture.
1. Shop second-hand & Repair what you can
Before tossing out that worn jumper or broken toaster, consider giving it a second life. Sustainable living in Guernsey starts with reducing waste:
- Charity shops across the island offer great finds - from clothes and books to homeware
- Clothes swaps are becoming more popular, offering a fun and free way to refresh your wardrobe. The Repair Café, run by the Clean Earth Trust hosts a monthly event, more details below
- The Repair Café also hosts pop-up events where skilled volunteers help you fix everything from electronics to furniture. It’s not just about repairs - it’s about learning new skills and reducing waste
Find the next Repair Café event here: https://www.cleanearthtrust.org/therepaircafe
2. Leave the car at home
With short commutes and scenic routes, Guernsey is ideal for walking, cycling, or switching to an electric vehicle (EV).
- The average daily mileage in Guernsey is just 14 - 20 miles, meaning most EVs only need charging once a week
- Guernsey Post leads by example, operating the world's first fully electric postal fleet
- Multiple EV charging stations are available around St Peter Port, with more being added by local businesses
Find out more about Electric Charging points in Guernsey here: Electric Charging Points
3. Support local
Supporting local produce and businesses is a cornerstone of eco-conscious living in Guernsey:
- Enjoy the island’s beloved hedge veg stalls, offering fresh tomatoes, potatoes, eggs, and even homemade treats
- Entrepreneurs like Jock Pettitt and Sasha Marsh are redefining sustainable agriculture through ventures like Soil Farm and their new Farm Shop, promoting community-based food systems
4. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Guernsey has made big strides in waste management, with a strong focus on recycling:
- Guernsey’s kerbside recycling system is simple and efficient, with weekly collections for most households
- For non-kerbside collection items, visit Longue Hougue Household Waste & Recycling Centre and Mont Cuet Household green waste site
- Compost at home or use the island’s food waste collection service
5. Reduce Food & Water Waste
Small changes can make a big difference:
- Plan meals to avoid food waste and get creative with leftovers
- Use water refill stations across the island - carry a reusable bottle and skip the plastic
If you are considering relocating to the island, the team at Locate Guernsey are on hand to provide confidential guidance throughout your relocation journey free of charge. If you would like to understand how Guernsey could work for you, please get in touch:
