The Environment in Figures: A report on the condition of Jersey’s environment 2011–2015

STATES OF JERSEY

THE ENVIRONMENT IN FIGURES: A REPORT ON THE CONDITION OF JERSEY'S ENVIRONMENT 2011–2015

Presented to the States on 16th September 2016 by the Minister for the Environment

STATES GREFFE

2016  R.92

Department of the Environment

The Environment in Figures:

A report on the condition of Jersey's environment 2011-2015

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

CO2  

Further Information

To receive a hard copy of the full report or to request any other information on any aspect of the report, please contact:

States of Jersey

Department of the Environment Howard Davis Farm

La Route de la Trinite

Trinity

JE3 5JP

Jersey C.I.

Tel: (01534) 441600 Email environment@gov.je

Or visit www.gov.je/Environment website

gov.je/ecoactive

facebook

eco active jersey

twitter

@ecoactivejersey

Publication date: 13th September 2016

Foreword from the Minister

It is easy to think of the environment as a backdrop to our daily lives but it delivers much more to us than simple aesthetics. Clean air, water, soil, our seas, biodiversity and green spaces are all highly valued and make Jersey a special place to live, work and do business. They all deliver multiple benefits to the human population that can be termed eco-system services' which underpin the high quality environment that we all enjoy. However, the interactions and interrelationships within our environment are complex and as this report shows, the influence of human activity can disrupt this finely balanced equation. This Environment in Figures report looks at the most recent trends in 48 environmental indicators and tells us how our environment is performing.

The last report in this series was published in 2011 when I was serving on the Environment Scrutiny Panel and in 2014, I became Minister for the Environment. I needed to ensure that the actions set out in the previous report met the environmental challenges and continued to be implemented to protect these vital eco system services.

We are experiencing pressures on our infrastructure from many factors including extreme weather events and changed rainfall patterns caused by climate change. These impacts alongside others, such as higher than expected population increase, could mean that the operating limits of the infrastructure are exceeded and might result in environmental pollution and harm. To avoid this we must manage demand and our resource use. For example, reducing and recycling waste to minimise the amounts of inappropriate wastes disposed of through our energy from waste plant, or using water wisely to reduce pressure in terms of both water supply and treatment.

Public engagement programmes such as eco active, green travel fortnight and recycle for Jersey, provide information and practical solutions to encourage collective responsibility in reducing environmental impact. For example, eco active helps to deliver demand management through a suite of tailored programmes across many sectors, including a bespoke environmental management system for the business community, schools and the public sector.

Nevertheless, this report shows that where only passive, rather than more punitive measures have been used, the combined impact of these initiatives and the efforts of the general public has been limited. For example, the sustainable transport plan has only been partially successful in terms of modal shift. This has largely been due to an amendment accepted by the States Assembly not to significantly increase the cost of motoring until a viable alternative was available to all. Therefore, implementation relied solely on encouragement and the provision of improved services to drive behaviour change towards sustainable travel. It did not impact on the direct costs of motoring. If we are to achieve the level of environmental protection that we know the public want, and meet requirements of best international practise to which we are committed, then we will need to consider what other policy levers may be appropriate.

Our local environment doesn't exist in isolation. PWC[1], among others, has looked at the factors that are shaping and disrupting the global economic landscape and society. These megatrends' are as relevant at the local level and provide a powerful lens for examining the global changes that impact us all, such as climate change and resource scarcity.

In August 2015 Barak Obama, said "No challenge poses a greater threat to our future and future generations than a change in climate" He warned that this was "the first generation to feel the impact of climate change and the last generation that can do something about it."

The historic 2015 Paris agreement, is a global political consensus on the need for action, with over 170 world leaders committing to limit warming to less than 2oC by 2100 to avoid the impacts of dangerous climate change. The evidence from this report shows that we are already experiencing these trends locally with associated impacts on our ecosystems services. However, Jersey is addressing its carbon emissions by implementing the recently agreed 2014 Energy Plan which presents a pathway towards a low carbon future.

Patterns of decline in global biodversity are seen locally in reductions of migrating species. The the numbers of migrating species we ultimately see reaching Jersey's shores are impacted by global habitat loss and degredation, hunting and trapping. Maintaining our internationally recognised biodiversity is intrinsically important from a global biodiversity perspective as well as to enhance the health and well-being of Jersey's residents. Islanders enjoy a high quality natural environment and Jersey is an attractive place for people to live, work and do business whilst active enjoyment of our outstanding countryside and coastal waters promote physical and mental wellbeing.

It is a matter of concern that this report is not more positive. Whilst some progress has been made, there are still significant challenges ahead. We need to fundamentally re-examine and prepare for the impact of global megatrends on our local environment. This will mean re-evaluating how we account for the value and contribution of our environment and the ecosystem services it provides, within our strategic and long term decision making. The Council of Ministers recognise the high value of our environment both in terms of the services it gives us and the contribution it makes to our quality of life in Jersey. The results from the 2016 Island Vision survey show the value that the public place in a high quality environment. The challenge is to continue to ensure the policies we develop to protect our  environment are successful.

Steve Luce  

Minister for the Environment  September 2016  

CONTENTS

Welcome ......................................................................................................... 7

The indicators at a glance............................................................................. 9

1. Trend Summary .................................................................................... 11
2. Summary of environmental performance ........................................... 12

1. Energy and emissions ......................................................................... 12
2. Climate trends ...................................................................................... 13
3. Fresh waters ......................................................................................... 14
4. Marine waters ....................................................................................... 15
5. Waste ..................................................................................................... 16
6. Transport ............................................................................................... 17
7. Natural Environment ............................................................................ 18

3. Using The Environment in Figures report to help build an Island Vision 19

Welcome

Welcome to the executive summary of The Environment in Figures: A report on the condition of Jersey's environment, which covers the reporting period from 2011 to 2015. This report is the third in a series of environmental monitoring reports, the first of which was published in 2005[2]. It examined the available historic environmental data and considered this in the context of the issues raised in a number of previous environmental reports.

The 2005 report identified five key environmental priorities summarised below:

• Climate change
• High levels of waste reduction
• Pressure on the quantity and quality of our water resources
• Transport
• Changes in our countryside and natural history

Recommendations to address these priorities were made, and this set the strategic direction for the next 5 years.

In 2010[3] the second report was published and the process was repeated, with the evidence this time highlighting in particular, that the following priorities should focused on:

• Agreeing an Energy Plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions;
• Developing a new liquid waste strategy and improving the Island's recycling targets;
• Ensuring the availability and quality of fresh water;
• Protecting our marine environment and ensuring sustainable existing and potential economic activity there;
• Meeting and surpassing the targets set in the Sustainable Travel and Transport Plan supported by the new Island Plan
• Protecting and enhancing our biodiversity and heritage landscape through legislation, the 2011 Island Plan and incentives for the agricultural that purchase environmental goods and services.

In this latest report, the indicators have been updated to the end of 2015. They continue to measure progress towards meeting the environmental challenges in the key areas of energy and emissions, climate trends, fresh waters, marine waters, waste, transport and natural environment. The 48 indicators detailed in the report have been summarised in the performance table and the trend overview and show an at a glance' position in respect of our environment to the end of 2015.

In early 2016, it became apparent through a more extensive testing regime that historic legacy of pesticides in our fresh waters was more extensive than previously recognised. Ongoing monitoring will continue to record progress in this area along with continued awareness raising with the agriculture industry. The next Environment in Figures report will provide further information on this issue.

The indicators at a glance

This table provides an overview of the trend for each of the indicators over the period from 2011 to 2015. A traffic lights system; red, amber or green (RAG), has been applied to provide an overview of how each indicator is performing; red meaning static or a declining trend; amber meaning static or slight change; green representing increasing trends or good performance.

Full details of each indicator are included in the full report where information is provided on how data has been collected and interpreted.

Summary table of indicators

The trend summary follows on the next page. It provides a snapshot of our environment as evidenced by the information in the 48 indicators across the 6 subject areas.

1. TrendSummary

This trend summary provides a snapshot of our environment as evidenced by the information in the 48 indicators across the 6 subject areas.  

ENERGY & EMISSIONS – Local energy consumption and greenhouse gas CO2  must be successful in reducing the on-island demand and have a consistent

emissions are slowly declining. To reduce our greenhouse gas emissions we

and reliable supply of low carbon electricity from the French grid and continue to

investigate offshore renewable energy generation.

CLIMATE TRENDS - Local climate trends are deviating from the 30 year nom and are in line with global climate change predictions: air and sea temperatures

are rising; the growing seasonEneirs gylengthening; both summers and winters are wetter; cold spells are shorter and warm spells are longer.

FRESH WATERS -The quantity and availability of Jersey's mains supply of water is currently sufficient for the population's needs.

Although we see signs of improvement, elevated nitrate levels and the  presence of pesticides means our water is of a poorer quality than we would  aim for. This is a result of a high density population and long-term intensive  agricultural practices in close proximity to our water courses and catchments.  

MARINE WATERS - The quality of our marine waters and the biodiversity  within them is very high. Pressures on the natural resources can arise from  fishing activity and other economic activities.

WASTE – The 2005 target recycling rate of 32% was achieved but it has remained static since 2009. Progress has been made with hazardous waste like batteries which can now be recycled. Five parishes have introduced household recycling collections; the other parishes rely on centralised public recycling facilities.

The management of agricultural liquid waste (slurries) has improved considerably. The aging sewerage treatment facilities at Bellozanne are at the end of their useful life, a new plant will be able to treat more flow to deal with the islands increasing population.

TRANSPORT - Despite a target to reduce peak hour traffic by 15% by 2015, levels have only decreased by 1.6%. Traffic and particularly congestion reduces air quality in localised situations in St Helier and cause greenhouse gas emissions.

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT - Conservation management of our designated  semi-natural sites is successful in preserving local biodiversity. We are not  immune to global biodiversity losses as shown by downward trends in  migrating species.  

Indicator species, such as, butterflies and breeding birds show the biodiversity  value of urban and agricultural habitats is far lower and also is becoming  poorer compared to designated semi-natural sites. Environmental stewardship  schemes can improve the value of agricultural habitat for wildlife.

2. Summaryof environmental performance

1. Energy and emissions

Tewdmehithveissie n tlopheoeen remds' teqonwutair aas idegnmreede stenn aats tinkfieoeEhfd tno aheldergse Kayr e Pyponrilantogoarip tgtyrotoe a remoctioecodnutlnce,. inPFoag tllthreehoeww 2nainghy0o 21ua00s re lo5e0 gnp: Agao ps rtn,e inrio lind oef  wLOWERere 38%

In 2014 emissions Energy Plan for Jersey was adopted in 2014. It outlines an emissions  than in 1990 -

reduction pathway through to 2050 for a low carbon future; with the  their LOWEST aim of secure, affordable, sustainable energy. The Plan is based on  EVER

three policy clusters of reducing energy demand, providing energy

affordability and security of supply. These policies are delivered through actions across all energy use sectors and activities. Global technological advances are likely to impact on the implementation of the Plan, and may accelerate progress. For example, in relation to emissions from transport patterns and vehicle types; currently, one third of emissions come from transport due to dependence on petrol and diesel fuels, it is likely that the global move to low carbon fuel sources for transport will have a positive impact.

Progress on the emissions reduction pathway has been variable since 2012, reflecting shocks in the local energy infrastructure. Emissions increased in 2012 - 2013 (indicator E2), following the loss of the 2 sub-sea cables which provide imported electricity from France, requiring generation of on-Island electricity using heavy fuel oil with high emissions. The installation of new sub-sea cables in 2014 has meant that this trend has now reversed. There is potential for Jersey to exploit off-shore renewable energy resources which could increase our security of supply and ensure supply of sustainable energy.

Energy and emissions – Summary of the priorities 2016 - 2020

Continued implementation of the Energy Plan including annual reporting cycle and the 5 year review in 2020.

Agreed priorities within the Plan include:

• Focus on demand management across the following policy clusters: domestic; commercial and government and transport;
• Integrating energy issues into the Island Vision;
• Continued work around the local energy market to ensure that all energy is affordable and fuel poverty is minimised and markets function to the consumer's advantage;
• Ensuring that the local energy market is responsive to opportunities presented by disruptive technologies such as renewable energy embedded generation and storage facilities at the household and community level;
• Continue to prepare the policy and regulatory framework for the development of off-shore utility scale renewable energy.

2. Climate trends

The indicators show that the impacts of climate change that  

are being experienced globally are being felt in Jersey. The  2014 & 2015 historic 2015 Paris agreement aimed to limit warming to less  were the

than 2oC by 2100 in order to avoid dangerous climate change.  HOTTEST The agreement prioritised the need for countries to put in

place resilience and adaptation measures to cope with the  EVER recorded changes that are unavoidable and are already being felt.

By making Jersey climate-resilient and future proofing our Island against sea level rise and the impact of more frequent and severe weather events, we can provide confidence for people to live and for businesses to invest and establish their organisations.

It is a priority to develop a coordinated approach to integrate climate resilience into strategic planning, revision of spatial planning policies and building standards. Technological and engineering solutions can provide confidence and security in our homes and workplaces, whilst maintaining the heritage, countryside and other elements that characterise Jersey.

Changing growing seasons and warmer wetter weather, impacts on agricultural markets and will impact on farming practises and livestock husbandry, crops, management practises and could alter the appearance of the countryside. Jersey is currently able to protect itself against crop pests and diseases, with active eradication and control underway. Changes in local weather conditions will favour the year round survival of some pests and diseases and changing temperatures and wind direction could enable the arrival of new invasive species.

The States of Jersey are working in partnership with key stakeholders to develop a costed Climate Adaptation Plan (CAP) based on a risk assessment which enable decisions about how to spend money on the most vulnerable areas.

Climate trends – Summary of the priorities 2016 - 2020

Jersey must develop an Island wide strategic response to adapt to the local impacts of global climate change. We must develop a costed Climate Adaptation Plan (CAP):

Developing this Plan includes the following:

• Agree the baseline evidence to develop an agreed resilience factor for Jersey;
• Undertake risk assessment to identify priorities for strategic planning including the Island Vision, the Island Plan review, infrastructure planning and ensure climate resilience and response is integrated into emergency risk registers and response plans;
• Carry out an economic assessment of risks of climate change impacts versus the investment needed in climate resilience;
• Ensure a coordinated process to develop a climate resilience and adaptation framework that includes all stakeholders in a framework of corporate governance;
• Continue to monitor local weather, atmospheric trends and input to UK based climate models and work with experts to establish and report accurate data on sea level rise.

3. Fresh waters

In 2011, the following environmental priority was recognised  

Ensuring the availability and quality of fresh water'. Jersey  The QUALITY of our has a legacy issue of elevated nitrates in groundwater due to  water is reduced by the application of fertilizers to agricultural land. There has  DIFFUSE been ongoing work to address this diffuse pollution through

that eth Nitrate scaeleW oof rkithen wg Ghoroule pw aatendr ca wotchrkinmgenwt.ith Re mceultiplent sufccearmsseers s  POLLUTION include, for the first time, a decoupling of nitrate levels in

water from the area of agricultural farmed under potato crops (indicator FW4). However, on occasion, Jersey Water have been unable to provide drinking water that meets World Health Organisation maximum nitrate standards of 50mg/l.

Assessing the extent and reducing the occurrences of pesticides in water are a high priority for the Department of the Environment and for Jersey Water; the monitoring regime for pesticides and also for phosphate is being increased and refined accordingly.

The implementation of a Water Plan in 2017 will provide a holistic approach to catchment management reducing inputs of nitrate, pesticides and phosphorus; all stakeholders, agriculturalists, land managers and the public, will play their part in improving water quality.

Jersey depends almost entirely on rainfall for its water. Jersey Water are already storing and abstracting water from most of the island streams. The Island's geology means that the storage capacity of groundwater in underground fractures is limited. Climate change is already changing the expected pattern of rainfall. Longer drier periods, more unpredictable and intense rainfall all add to the complexity of managing the quantity, as well as, the quality of our water resources.

Fresh Waters – Summary of the priorities 2016 - 2020

We must improve the quality of our water which has been affected by agricultural, industrial and domestic land use.

In order to address this we must adopt and implement the forthcoming Water Plan from 2017- 2021 with the aim of improving the status of the resource. This will include:

• Implementing measures to reduce inputs of nitrate, pesticides and phosphorus through good land management practices to minimise any further contamination;
• We will need to monitor the success of the policies in the Plan and continue to increase our baseline water quality data;
• We will continue to use a mix of advice, education and regulation to improve the water resource and increase knowledge of the importance of sustainable water resources in the community;
• We will continue to use, and strengthen where necessary, the regulatory tools at our disposal.

Additionally we need adequate supplies of water of sufficient quality as do the water-dependant habitats and flora and fauna. Around 90% of the Island's population receive their water from the public water supply which is predominately collected from streams.

4. Marine waters

In 2011 the following environmental priority was  

recognised Protecting our marine environment and  The WHELK ensuring sustainable existing and potential economic

activity there'. The quality of our extensive marine waters  FISHERY and the biodiversity within them overall is very high. But

pressures on these natural resources can arise from  continues to decline. fishing activity and the future impacts of climate change

affecting species assemblages.  Catches have not Preparations for commercialisation of offshore renewable  improved in 14 yrs

energy in nearby waters will need to take into account

potential impact on the marine environment and local fisheries.

The development of Marine Spatial Planning will provide an integrated approach to manage our marine resource effectively in line with high levels of conservation and protection of biodiversity.  

Marine Waters – Summary of the priorities 2016 – 2020

We must maintain the high quality marine environment and its rich biodiversity which supports traditional industries like fishing and aquaculture.

In order to achieve this we will:

• Continue to ensure compliance with legislation, bilateral agreements and conventions that protect habitats, species and the fisheries resource;
• Re-constitution of Ramsar Management Authority to ensure continued implementation and development of management plans for all Ramsar sites;
• Development of Marine Spatial Planning for Territorial Waters;
• Develop network of existing Marine Protected Areas into a coherent ecological network;
• Ensure a data and evidence led approach to all aspects of marine resource management.

5. Waste

In 2011 the following environmental priority was identified Developing a new liquid waste strategy and improving the Island's recycling targets'.

Modern living can be resource hungry with increasing demand on water and energy and the production of increased amounts of waste. The regulation of waste management is having a positive impact on pollution and reducing environmental damage and ensures that Jersey is able to demonstrate that it is a responsible jurisdiction complying with good practise.

RECYCLING

rates have

PLATEAUED

at 32%

since 2009

The provision of recycling facilities and awareness campaigns have not resulted in high levels of participation in recycling or waste reduction. Reduction in waste volumes has resulted from the impact of global manufacturers changing product packaging and materials to meet regulatory requirements. The economics of waste management and recycling are complex, management of waste is a hidden cost to most householders and businesses. In order to increase recycling rates a fundamental transformation of waste management will be required including the introduction of fiscal levers, such as, a commercial waste charge to incentivise recycling as a more financially attractive option. This will increase recycling rates and ensure that Islanders are more aware of both the environmental and financial costs of waste management.

The waste water strategy has been approved and requires the replacement of the sewage treatment works to cope with increasing population and associated higher flow rates, and increased rainfall as a result of climate change.

Waste – Summary of the priorities 2016 - 2020

In 2016 the Department for Infrastructure will commence a fundamental review of waste management as part of a wider public sector reform programme.

There will be political debate and public consultation that will set the waste management strategy for the next 10 years. Recognising this, the following priorities are indicative and they will be superseded by the agreed strategy once published. However, they will include:

• Revision of the solid waste strategy including increased recycling targets. The solid waste management  service  will  be  transformed  and  charging  for  commercial  waste  will  be introduced;
• Implementing the 2014 waste water strategy and the introduction of charges for liquid waste;
• Continue to abide by internationally agreed standards in future waste management and monitoring of compliance at licenced waste management sites.

6. Transport

In 2010 the following environmental priority was recognised  

Meeting and surpassing the targets set in the Sustainable  PEAK TIME TDespraveitel a nad t aTrgranet sptoo rert Pdulance p suepapk ohrtoeudr traby tffhic be nye 1w5 I% bslanyd 2 P0la15n, '.  CONGESTION

levels have only decreased by 1.6%. Traffic and particularly  has decreased by congestion continues to reduce air quality in localised  1.6% vs a 15% situations in St Helier and cause greenhouse gas emissions.

TARGET The sustainable transport plan has been based on incentives

and outreach campaigns like the annual cycle challenge, the

provision of an improved bus service and associated infrastructure like bus shelters. These encouraging measures have not gone hand-in-hand with more punitive measures that could also drive behaviour change, such as discouraging private car use by increasing car parking charges.

Jersey's only environmental tax, Vehicle Emissions Duty has demonstrated that as long as the charging regime is well designed and not regressive, fiscal levers can bring about behaviour change and reduce environmental impacts. Since its introduction we have seen a move towards smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles in the Jersey fleet. It is clear that without a significantly revised approach achieving anything close to the target of a 15% reduction in peak time travel will be impossible.

Transport – Summary of the priorities 2016 – 2020

The challenges ahead focus on making accelerated progress in line with the following policy objectives:

• Sustainable Transport Policy – continued progress towards a 15% reduction in peak time congestion;
• The Energy Plan – 5 % reduction in the use of motor vehicles on our roads at all times by 2020;
• The Air Quality Strategy Action Plan – Continue to provide real time data to underpin evidence base.

The key actions to achieve this are:

• Delivery of Sustainable Transport Policy and Energy Plan and particularly drive modal shift away from private car use;
• Implementation of Island Plan policies and Future of St Helier project to ensure sustainable travel and transport and to support economic prosperity and residential expansion in the urban area;  
• Continue to implement air quality monitoring programme and provide publicly available air quality information.

7. Natural Environment  

In 2011 the following environmental priority was recognised -  Without active landscape through legislation, the 2011 Island Plan and  & proINTERVEtecNtioTIONn,  

Protecting and enhancing our biodiversity and heritage

incentives for the agricultural that purchase environmental

goods and services'.  our Biodiversity is Species and habitats are the building blocks of our  DECLINING ecosystems, and we regard them as the basic measure of

our biodiversity. Jersey is not immune to global biodiversity losses as shown by downward trends in migrating species reaching our shores. In addition, declines in our local wildlife suggest that our conservation efforts to maintain habitats and species are insufficient. However, targeted conservation management on our designated semi-natural sites has proven a successful tool in preserving local biodiversity. Further work in the agricultural sector and building industry need to be implemented to halt further biodiversity losses.

Biodiversity provides many key eco-systems services. Eco-system services are underpinned by fit-for-purpose well-regulated infrastructure that is appropriately regulated and receives sufficient investment to meet best environmental practice operational guidelines. Whilst interactions and interrelationships are complex, eco-system services underpin the high quality environment that we all enjoy; clean air, water, land, biodiversity and green space are all elements that are highly valued in terms of what makes Jersey special. All these aspects are recognised as important in attracting inward investment and the relocation of high productivity individuals to the Island.

As well as providing a stable basis for future diversification of the economy, we need to reconsider our models for assessing success and for evaluating ecosystems services contribution to the economy.

Natural Environment – Summary of the priorities 2016-2020

It is imperative that the causes for the observed decline in our island's biodiversity is understood and reversed. This decline is despite the efforts made by many organisations and individuals undertaking conservation activities.

In order to address this our priorities for the next five years include:

• Revision of Jersey's Biodiversity Strategy to meet international obligations and a changing environment. The concept of eco-system services will underpin the development of the Strategy;
• Continued implementation and development of legislation and Island Plan policies to ensure the protection of the Island's biodiversity and habitats;
• Development of Protected Areas Strategy to define the location and extent to which we need to protect land for biodiversity;
• Implementation  of  the  Countryside  Access  Strategy  and  ensuring  good  public  access linkages to the wider environment whilst protecting our countryside.
• Continue and strengthen plant biosecurity measures and public awareness of risk.

3. Using The Environment in Figures report to help build an Island Vision

Recognising that many of the environmental challenges we face and their corresponding solutions are long term, in 2015, work began to develop an Island Vision' which will describe the sort of place islanders collectively want Jersey to become. Having this agreed vision will improve Jersey's long term planning process beyond the relatively short timescale of each Council of Ministers and the Strategic Plan. This approach will ensure that priorities identified within each electoral cycle sit within a broader vision of the Island's future that encompasses the full range of social, environmental and economic goals.

Whilst the Island will face many important  immediate priorities which must be tackled, the  Island Vision prevents us from losing sight of  the bigger picture.  

The Island Vision recognises that the full range  of social, environmental and economic goals  are inextricably linked.[1] It describes a set of  desired outcomes and the framework,  (illustrated to the right), proposes broad themes  from the economy, community and the  environment. The environmental theme is  broken down into: sustainable resources,  natural environment and the built and historic  environment.  

Tangible outcomes have been developed,

based on feedback from previous public surveys and consultations, aginst which it will be possible to monitor progress (the environment outcomes are shown below).

• The beauty of Jersey's countryside and coast is protected

• Marine environment is protected

• Wildlife, plants and habitats are protected

Natural Environment

The Environment in Figures report provides evidence of progress towards these outcomes and identifies environmental challenges and will help inform the development of appropriate policy responses as required.

Department of the Environment

The Environment in Figures: A report on the condition of Jersey's environment 2011-2015

CO2  

Further Information

To receive a hard copy of the full report or to request any other information on any aspect of the report, please contact:

States of Jersey

Department of the Environment Howard Davis Farm

La Route de la Trinite

Trinity

JE3 5JP

Jersey C.I.

Tel: (01534) 441600

Email environment@gov.je

Or visit www.gov.je/Environment

website gov.je/ecoactive facebook

eco active jersey twitter @ecoactivejersey

Publication date: 13th September 2016

Foreword from the Minister

It is easy to think of the environment as a backdrop to our daily lives but it delivers much more to us than simple aesthetics. Clean air, water, soil, our seas, biodiversity and green spaces are all highly valued and make Jersey a special place to live, work and do business. They all deliver multiple benefits to the human population that can be termed eco-system services' which underpin the high quality environment that we all enjoy. However, the interactions and interrelationships within our environment are complex and as this report shows, the influence of human activity can disrupt this finely balanced equation. The Environment in Figures report looks at the most recent trends in 48 environmental indicators and tells us how our environment is performing.

The last report in this series was published in 2011 when I was serving on the Environment Scrutiny Panel and in 2014, I became Minister for the Environment. I needed to ensure that the actions set out in the previous report met the environmental challenges and continued to be implemented to protect these vital eco system services.

We are experiencing pressures on our infrastructure from many factors including extreme weather events and changed rainfall patterns caused by climate change. These impacts alongside others, such as higher than expected population increase, could mean that the operating limits of the infrastructure are exceeded and might result in environmental pollution and harm. To avoid this we must manage demand and our resource use. For example, reducing and recycling waste to minimise the amounts of inappropriate wastes disposed of through our energy from waste plant, or using water wisely to reduce pressure in terms of both water supply and treatment.

Public engagement programmes such as eco active, green travel fortnight and recycle for Jersey, provide information and practical solutions to encourage collective responsibility in reducing environmental impact. For example, eco active helps to deliver demand management through a suite of tailored programmes across many sectors, including a bespoke environmental management system for the business community, schools and the public sector.

Nevertheless, this report shows that where only passive, rather than more punitive measures have been used, the combined impact of these initiatives and the efforts of the general public has been limited. For example, the sustainable transport plan has only been partially successful in terms of modal shift. This has largely been due to an amendment accepted by the States Assembly not to significantly increase the cost of motoring until a viable alternative was available to all. Therefore, implementation relied solely on encouragement and the provision of improved services to drive behaviour change towards sustainable travel. It did not impact on the direct costs of motoring. If we are to achieve the level of environmental protection that we know the public want, and meet requirements of best international practise to which we are committed, then we will need to consider what other policy levers may be appropriate.

Our local environment doesn't exist in isolation. PWC[1], among others, has looked at the factors that are shaping and disrupting the global economic landscape and society. These megatrends' are as relevant at the local level and provide a powerful lens for examining the global changes that impact us all, such as climate change and resource scarcity.

In August 2015 Barak Obama, said "No challenge poses a greater threat to our future and future generations than a change in climate" He warned that this was "the first generation to feel the impact of climate change and the last generation that can do something about it."

The historic 2015 Paris agreement, is a global political consensus on the need for action, with over 170 world leaders committing to limit warming to less than 2oC by 2100 to avoid the impacts of dangerous climate change. The evidence from this report shows that we are already experiencing these trends locally with associated impacts on our ecosystems services. However, Jersey is addressing its carbon emissions by implementing the recently agreed 2014 Energy Plan which presents a pathway towards a low carbon future.

Patterns of decline in global biodversity are seen locally in reductions of migrating species. The the numbers of migrating species we ultimately see reaching Jersey's shores are impacted by global habitat loss and degredation, hunting and trapping. Maintaining our internationally recognised biodiversity is intrinsically important from a global biodiversity perspective as well as to enhance the health and well-being of Jersey's residents. Islanders enjoy a high quality natural environment and Jersey is an attractive place for people to live, work and do business whilst active enjoyment of our outstanding countryside and coastal waters promote physical and mental wellbeing.

It is a matter of concern that this report is not more positive. Whilst some progress has been made, there are still significant challenges ahead. We need to fundamentally re-examine and prepare for the impact of global megatrends on our local environment. This will mean re-evaluating how we account for the value and contribution of our environment and the ecosystem services it provides, within our strategic and long term decision making. The Council of Ministers recognise the high value of our environment both in terms of the services it gives us and the contribution it makes to our quality of life in Jersey. The results from the 2016 Island Vision survey show the value that the public place in a high quality environment. The challenge is to continue to ensure the policies we develop to protect our  environment are successful.

Steve Luce  

Minister for the Environment  September 2016

CONTENTS

How this report is structured ........................................................................ 8 The indicators at a glance ............................................................................. 8 Summary table of indicators ......................................................................... 9 Trend Summary............................................................................................ 11

Energy and Emissions ................................................................................ 14

1. The indicators ............................................................................. 15

1. Energy use ................................................................................. 15
2. Greenhouse gas emissions ........................................................ 18

2. Update on 2010 priority actions .................................................. 20
3. The priorities for 2016-2020 ....................................................... 24

1. Implementing the Energy Plan ................................................... 24
2. Energy and climate resilience integrated into Island Vision 2035 25
3. Work with the local energy market ............................................. 25
4. Ensure energy market is responsive to disruptive technologies . 25
5. Continue to prepare policy framework for utility scale renewable energy 26

Climate Trends ............................................................................................. 28

1. The indicators ............................................................................. 28

1. Weather and climate trends ....................................................... 28
   2. Update on 2010 priority actions .................................................. 38

2.2.1. Preparing for the effects of climate change ................................ 38

3. The priorities for 2016-2020 ....................................................... 39

1. Agree baseline evidence and resilience factor ........................... 39
2. Undertake risk assessment to identify priority actions ................ 39
3. Assess economic impacts and opportunities.............................. 40
4. Establish governance framework to ensure stakeholder involvement............................................................................................. 40
5. Continue monitoring climate trends ............................................ 41

Fresh and Marine Waters ............................................................................ 44

1. The indicators ............................................................................. 44

1. Drinking water supply ................................................................. 44
2. Fresh water management .......................................................... 48
3. Fresh water quality ..................................................................... 49
4. Surface water monitoring ........................................................... 51
5. Marine Water quality .................................................................. 57
6. Ramsar sites .............................................................................. 67

2. Update on 2010 priority actions .................................................. 69

1. Fresh waters .............................................................................. 69
2. Marine waters ............................................................................. 70
   3. The priorities for 2016-2020 ....................................................... 72

1. Implementation of the Water Plan 2017-2021 ............................ 72
2. Compliance with legislation, bilateral agreements and conventions............................................................................................. 74

3. Continued implementation of Ramsar management plans ......... 74
4. Development of Marine Spatial Planning for Territorial Waters .. 74
5. Develop network of existing MPAs into coherent ecological network ................................................................................................... 74
6. Ensure a data and evidence led approach to all aspects of marine resource management ............................................................................ 75

Waste ............................................................................................................ 78

1. The indicators ............................................................................. 79

1. Implementing Waste legislation .................................................. 79
2. Implementing solid waste strategy 2005 targets ........................ 80
3. Total municipal solid waste arisings per capita .......................... 81
4. Recycling rates ........................................................................... 82
5. Liquid waste ............................................................................... 85
6. Pollution from waste ................................................................... 86

2. Update on 2010 priority actions .................................................. 88

1. Develop a new liquid waste strategy .......................................... 88
2. Revise the solid waste strategy and integrate waste minimisation targets 89
3. Continue to abide by internationally agreed standards in future waste management ................................................................................ 90
4. Improvements in recycling rates ................................................. 91

3. The priorities for 2016-2020 ....................................................... 93

1. Transformation of solid waste management service .................. 93
2. Delivery of the Waste Water Strategy ........................................ 94
3. Continue to abide by internationally agreed standards in future waste management planning and monitoring of compliance .................. 94

Transport ...................................................................................................... 96

1. The indicators ............................................................................. 97

1. Transport choices ....................................................................... 97
2. Atmospheric pollution from transport ........................................ 102

2. Update on 2010 priority actions ................................................ 105

1. Implementing the sustainable travel and transport policy ......... 105
2. Implementation of Island Plan policies ..................................... 107
3. Monitoring of atmospheric pollution arising from transport ....... 108
4. Vehicle Choices – low emission vehicles ................................. 109
5. Introduction of Vehicle Emissions Duty .................................... 110

3. The priorities for 2016-2020 ..................................................... 111

1. Implementation of the Sustainable Transport Policy and Energy Plan objectives...................................................................................... 111
2. Implementation of Island Plan policies and Future of St Helier Project 112
3. Continued implementation of the air quality monitoring programme ........................................................................................... 113

Natural Environment.................................................................................. 116

1. The indicators ........................................................................... 116

1. Overall land cover .................................................................... 116
2. Agri-environment schemes....................................................... 119

3. Habitat protection ..................................................................... 120
4. Populations of key species ....................................................... 126
5. The status of bird indicator species .......................................... 129
6. Non-indigenous invasive pests and diseases........................... 136

2. Update on 2010 priority actions ................................................ 139

1. A Legislative framework for the protection of species and habitats 139
2. The role of agri-environment schemes ..................................... 140
3. The Island Plan ........................................................................ 140
4. Long term monitoring ............................................................... 141

3. The priorities for 2016 - 2020 ................................................... 144

1. Revision of Jersey's Biodiversity Strategy ................................ 144
2. Island Plan ............................................................................... 145
3. Conservation of Wildlife (Jersey) Law 2000 ............................. 145
4. Protected Areas Strategy ......................................................... 146
5. Access Strategy ....................................................................... 146
6. Continue and strengthen plant biosecurity measures and public awareness of risk .................................................................................. 146

How this report is structured

Welcome to The Environment in Figures: A report on the condition of Jersey's environment which covers the reporting period 2011 to 2015. This report is the third in a series of environmental monitoring reports, the first of which was published in 2005.

The 2005 report was Jersey's first environmental benchmark report. It examined the state of Jersey's environment and identified priority areas that would be monitored using a set of environmental indicators. The priority areas identified were: energy and emissions; climate trends; fresh and marine waters; waste; transport and the natural environment.

The indicators have been refined over the last two reporting periods and this report presents the most recent update of environmental performance. The report outlines progress from the previous period and sets priorities for the next 5 years.

The executive summary of the report is also available separately.

The indicators at a glance

The following table provides an overview of the trend for each of the indicators over the period, 2011 and 2015. We have used a traffic lights system; red, amber or green (RAG), to give a view of how each indicator is performing; red meaning static or a declining trend; amber meaning static or slight change; green representing increasing trends or good performance. The RAG table on the following pages gives a snapshot of the indicators divided into the different theme areas. RAG statuses from the last report (2005-2010) have also been included to provide a point of comparison over time.

Full details of each indicator are included in the relevant chapter of the report and they provide much more information on the way the data has been collected and interpreted.

Summary table of indicators

The trend summary follows on the next page. It provides a snapshot of our environment as evidenced by the information in the 48 indicators across the 6 subject areas.

Trend Summary

ENERGY & EMISSIONS – Local energy consumption and greenhouse gas CO2  must be successful in reducing the on-island demand and have a consistent

emissions are slowly declining. To reduce our greenhouse gas emissions we

and reliable supply of low carbon electricity from the French grid and continue

to investigate offshore renewable energy generation.

CLIMATE TRENDS - Local climate trends are deviating from the 30 year norm and are in line with global climate change predictions: air and sea temperatures

are rising; the growing seasonEneris gylengthening; both summers and winters are wetter; cold spells are shorter and warm spells are longer.

FRESH WATERS -The quantity and availability of Jersey's mains supply of water is currently sufficient for the population's needs.

Although we see signs of improvement, elevated nitrate levels and the  presence of pesticides mean our water is of a poorer quality than we would  aim for. This is a result of a high density population and long-term intensive  agricultural practices in close proximity to our water courses and  catchments.  

MARINE WATERS - The quality of our marine waters and the biodiversity  within them is very high. Pressures on the natural resources can arise from fishing activity and other economic activities.

WASTE – The 2005 target recycling rate of 32% was achieved but it has remained static since 2009. Progress has been made with hazardous waste like batteries which can now be recycled. Five parishes have introduced household recycling collections; the other parishes rely on centralised public recycling facilities.

The management of agricultural liquid waste (slurries) has improved considerably. The aging sewerage treatment facilities at Bellozanne are at the end of their useful life, a new plant will be able to treat more flow to deal with the island's increasing population.

TRANSPORT - Despite a target to reduce peak hour traffic by 15% by 2015, levels have only decreased by 1.6%. Traffic and particularly congestion reduces air quality in localised situations in St Helier and cause greenhouse gas emissions.

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT - Conservation management of our designated  semi-natural sites is successful in preserving local biodiversity. We are not  immune to global biodiversity losses as shown by downward trends in  migrating species.  

Indicator species, such as, butterflies and breeding birds show the biodiversity  value of urban and agricultural habitats is far lower and also is becoming  poorer compared to designated semi-natural sites. Environmental  stewardship schemes can improve the value of agricultural habitat for wildlife.

Energy and emissions

CO2

Energy and Emissions

The consumption of energy has a profound effect on quality of life, the economy and social equity. Jersey's population, like much of the developed world, is currently dependent on hydrocarbon fossil fuels to support industrialised economies and food production. Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are produced when energy is extracted from hydrocarbon sources and the overwhelming evidence is that these GHGs are causing the climate to change in a way that will most likely have significant and detrimental effects on global ecosystems and human habitation of the planet.

Through the UK, Jersey is a signatory to the Kyoto Protocol signalling to the international community that it is committed to taking action to reduce the Island's emissions of GHGs. In December 2015, an historic agreement was reached at the Conference of Parties in Paris where over 170 countries committed to reducing their emissions in order to keep global temperature increases to less than 2oC by 2100[1].

Jersey's programme of action is outlined in Pathway 2050: An Energy Plan for Jersey which was approved by the States of Jersey in 2014. It sets an emissions reduction target for 2050 of 80% lower emissions compared to 1990 levels and has a goal of secure, affordable and sustainable energy. There is a framework of three policy areas for action:

1. Demand Management – reducing demand through series of interventions across all emissions sectors according to identified targets each decade;
2. Energy Security & resilience – ensuring a diverse, safe and resilient supply of energy to meet Island's needs;
3. Fuel poverty and energy affordability – ensuring that energy is affordable to all members of the community.

Pathway 2050 outlines the many policies that must be successful across all the sectors if the Island is to achieve the substantial emissions reductions that other jurisdictions are signed up to. It also highlights where progress will need to be made in other important areas such as potentially harvesting the Island's offshore renewable energy resources.

The aim is a reduction in overall energy demand with an accompanying reduction in GHGs as less hydrocarbon based fuels are used.

1. The indicators

1. Energy use

A detailed analysis of Jersey's energy use is provided in Jersey Energy Trends which can be found on www.gov.je[1]. Headline indicators and trends are given in this chapter.

56% of all energy used in Jersey is a hydrocarbon petroleum product with petrol and diesel accounting for a quarter of final energy demand. The remainder is electricity, the vast majority of which, under normal circumstances, is imported via subsea connections from France where it is generated from nuclear and hydro sources. A small amount of on-island generation occurs at the La Collette plant from heavy fuel oil, but in normal years this is below 10% of total use.

Indicator E1 – Energy consumption

92,000

82,000

72,000 62,000 52,000

42,000 32,000

22,000 12,000

2,000

Year

• Road fuel Aviation
  • Fuel oil Kerosene (heating oil) Gas oil Liquefied petroleum Gas Oil for electricity generation

Source: Jersey Energy Trends (States of Jersey - Statistics Unit and Department of the Environment)

Graph 1.1: Final energy consumption of petroleum products.

Graph 1.1 shows a long term trend of final energy consumption of petroleum products. A very clear decline can be seen in the amount of oil imported for electricity generation which has occurred because on-island generation has been largely displaced by imported electricity from France; the use of electricity is discussed further in the next indicator. However, the failure of the sole remaining operational sub-sea cable in September 2012 led to a temporary spike in the use of heavy fuel oil to generate on-island electricity by 2013. This begins to reverse in 2014 as the new sub-sea cable is commissioned and there is reduced on-island generation.

The consumption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene (heating oil) have shown a slight overall declining trend in the last decade. These products are mostly used to space heat residential and commercial buildings. Their decline, in the face of a rising population and the construction of more residential and domestic units, is likely to be a result of the following:

• A reduction in the overall energy demand for space heating as a result of more energy efficiency buildings constructed and renovated to higher standards as required by improved building bye laws. In particular, the States of Jersey has led a de-carbonisation programme that comprised of energy efficiency improvements in 4,463 social housing units and 1,727 private and rental units occupied by vulnerable Islanders.
• The switch of 1,739 social housing units in the last 5 years away from LPG and oil for space heating to electricity.
• Warmer winters since 2013.

In the last decade road fuel consumption has declined slightly due to the production of more efficient vehicles. Patterns in aviation fuel consumption and frequency of flights are less clear to interpret since planes refuel both on and off-island but more recently there has been a decline due to the loss of air routes meaning fewer journeys as well as more frequent off-island re-fuelling.

The above indicator tells us about consumption of petroleum products and consequent effects on Jersey's GHG emissions. However it does not account for non-hydrocarbon energy use i.e. imported electricity.

Since 1990, the most dramatic change within the electricity sector has been the growth in imported supply (Graph 1.2). During the 1990's imports accounted for between 40% and 60% of public electricity supply, by 2011, imported electricity accounted for 96% of the total. However, in June 2012 both supply cables failed and the original EDF1' cable was deemed irreparable. Although the sole remaining cable, Normandie 2, was restored, it then failed irrevocably in September 2012. This situation left no option but to generate electricity on-island at the La Collette back-up plant resulting in a spike of imported heavy fuel oil. The new 100MW Normandie 3' sub-sea cable was commissioned in 2014 so reversing this trend in increased hydrocarbon use and gas emissions.

Imported electricity is low carbon' because it is sourced from nuclear and hydro generation rather than from the combustion of hydrocarbons. Although the environmental impacts of imported electricity are arguably far less than hydrocarbons, they are not to be ignored and the issues of affordability and security of supply associated with this imported energy still apply. Following international carbon accounting practice, the (albeit small) amount of carbon associated with electricity produced in France is accounted for by the French national GHG inventory not Jersey's since inventories are production not consumption based.

 800,000

 700,000 600,000 500,000

 400,000

 300,000 200,000

 100,000

Year

• Total public electricity supply Imports of electricity

Source: Jersey in Figures

Graph 1.2: Jersey's total electricity supply and imports.

Graph 1.2 shows how overall electricity demand has grown steadily over the last two decades. This is a result of an increasing population and more construction of residential and commercial units as well as a switch from oil and LPG heating sources to electricity in existing properties. The temporary drop in imported electricity since 2011 is discussed above.

2. Greenhouse gas emissions

Jersey reports its carbon emissions to the UK government who account for our emissions as it is under the UK's jurisdiction that the Island is a signatory to the Kyoto Protocol. Aether are the consultancy who independently collate, analyse and verify the UKs emissions and together with the States of Jersey they have produced an infographic which provides an interactive and transparent picture of the Island's emissions[1]. This section looks at highlights in Jersey's inventory.

Indicator E2 – Trends in greenhouse gasses

Between the Kyoto baseline year of 1990 and 2014, the Island achieved a 36% fall in overall emissions (from 611.7 kt/CO2 eq to 363.4 kt/CO2 eq see Graph 1.3). This appears to be good progress since many countries have set targets of a 20% reduction by 2020 and the Island has already exceeded this.

But this impressive reduction in carbon dioxide emissions is mostly attributable to the one-off switch from the production of electricity on-island to imported electricity via two sub-sea cables to the French mainland in the 1990s and early 2000s (See Graph 1.2).

Furthermore, the savings arising from this switch have already been banked' and any further savings will need to be made as a result of our reduced energy use and more sustainable fuel choices rather than one-off' events. Because of this, in the reporting period from 2005 to 2010, the indicator is only awarded an amber status.

The fragility of the progress achieved as a result of imported electricity was seen in 2012 with the failure of the sub-sea cables forcing the Island to temporarily generate electricity on island using carbon-intense heavy fuel oil. This impacted on Jersey's downward trend in emissions reduction. Given the turbulence in emissions in the last five years, an amber status is also reported for the 2010-2015 period. With newest cable commissioned in late 2014, electricity imports continue to increase. Furthermore, a new 100MW cable is underway to replace the very first cable and this is scheduled to be in service by 2017. It will provide additional improvements in the security of supply as well as impacting on carbon emissions.

0.8

Waste

0.7 Management Agriculture

0.6

Land Use

0.5 Change

0.4 Residential

0.3 Business 0.2

Transport 0.1

Energy

0 Supply

Year

Source: AEA on behalf of the Department of the Environment

Graph 1.3: Jersey's GHG Emissions.

2. Update on 2010 priority actions

In 2010 the following priority actions were identified for the period of 2010 to 2015. This section assesses progress against these in the last five years.

Energy (State of Jersey Report 2010)

Jersey must continue to indicate to the international community that it is delivering on its' commitment to a reduction in GHG emissions in line with Pathway 2050.

In order to address this we must:

• Agree targets for the reduction in energy use and in GHG emissions within the framework of an Energy Policy whose aim is to deliver secure, affordable and sustainable energy;
• Continue and expand key existing work streams that support the carbon and energy reduction targets such as:

• Considering ways in which the Energy Efficiency Service can be applied to the able to pay sector;
• Delivering the legislative and commercial framework for the long-term exploitation of renewable energy e.g. tidal and off-shore wind power;
• Continuing to deliver more energy efficient buildings and a reduction in energy use through the application and enhancement of planning policy and building bye-laws;
• Moving to a low carbon economy where green skills contribute to economic diversity.

Since the last report a significant step forward has been the consultation, scrutiny process and final agreement of Pathway 2050: An Energy Plan for Jersey, in May 2014. The Plan sets out a clear policy direction for a reduction in energy use and emissions. The overarching target of Pathway 2050 is:

By 2050, reduce emissions by 80% compared to 1990 levels, by using secure, affordable and sustainable energy.

The Energy Plan sets out an emissions pathway to 2050, it identifies a number of actions and interventions which, if successfully implemented, will contribute to Jersey achieving a reduction in its carbon emissions in line with other jurisdictions. It will also provide the basis on which to monitor and consult on further interventions that may be needed. As a number of policies are developed, new employment opportunities may be created; ranging from provision of energy audits, to installation of microgeneration, and offshore or marine energy services.

Graph 1.4 below illustrates the future pathway carbon emissions will take if all sectors achieve their carbon reduction targets as set out in this plan.

HFCs & PFCs & SF6

700000

Waste water

600000 treatment

Agriculture 500000

Land use, land use

change & forestry 400000 Domestic sector

300000 Commercial Sector

Road transport

200000

Aviation

100000

Industrial

combustion

0

Power Stations (electricity

Year generation & EfW) Source: States of Jersey, Department of the Environment

Graph 1.4: Carbon emission projections across all sectors required to reach reduction target.

The table below shows the potential impact of the sector specific demand management policies on emissions, as is useful to see the importance that each policy makes to the overall reduction in emissions.

Source: States of Jersey, Department of the Environment

Table 1.1: Overview of sector specific demand management policies on emissions.

The delivery framework and corporate governance structure for the Energy Plan is the Energy Partnership which comprises The Energy Executive', a Ministerial oversight group and the Energy Forum', a group of industry representatives and stakeholders.

The Energy Executive was appointed in August 2014 and there followed purdah and a general election in autumn 2014. The new Ministers were appointed to the Energy Executive in December 2014 and 2015 marked the first full year of the implementation of the Energy Plan. Despite political changes throughout that period, work to initiate the work streams and action plans proceeded across the departments charged with their delivery.

Full year one progress is reported in the Energy Plan Year One report[1] but headlines include:

• Delivering an online interactive tool to report Jersey's GHG emissions since 1990 and our progress towards a decarbonised economy by 2050;
• Continuation of the Home Energy Scheme, a targeted turnkey 100% grant programme to install energy efficiency measures in 1,727 private and rental units occupied by vulnerable Islanders. Additionally, the States of Jersey (later externalised as Andium Homes') installed energy efficiency improvements in 4,463 social housing units;

• Continuation of the Community Buildings programme – a grant programme for energy efficiency improvements in the not-for-profit sector which provide day care and residential services for vulnerable islanders;
• Continuation of the provision of Energy Saving Trust accredited advice through an Energy Hotline based at the Department of the Environment;
• Piloting a targeted programme, eco active business, for assisting businesses in reducing their energy use and emissions in the private sector. This encompassed work in the public sector;
• Developing updated building bye-laws to ensure that the energy performance of both new builds and where possible the existing stock is improved;
• Resolving the ownership of the sea bed and making progress with both France and the UK in respect of future utility scale marine renewable energy;
• Initiating work around climate change and resilience to extreme weather, with the aim of developing a co-ordinated climate change adaptation action plan and risk assessment (see next chapter).

Whilst good initial progress was made across the breath of the action statements, there were also challenges. Early in 2015, the preparation of the Medium Term Financial Plan 2016-2019 (MTFP2) required that all Ministers review their Department's portfolios and identify budget savings. To support public sector reform and to help balance the financial position over the MTFP2 period, a service review was undertaken and savings were made as follows:

• A service redesign identified that some action statements can be delivered differently;
• Ceasing all 100% grants to community buildings 2 years earlier than intended;
• Ceasing the programme of grants to the socially vulnerable from the end of 2015; and
• Staff reductions associated with the administrative overhead for delivering that scheme.

Despite the resource uncertainty and scarcity the Department remains committed to delivering the objectives of the Energy Plan. The Minister noted in his foreword to the annual report that secure, affordable and sustainable energy underpins the Island's long term economic growth which is essential to a return to long-term sustainable prosperity and social equity. The challenge for year 2 and beyond is to look for innovative ways for government to work with the private and third sector to deliver the Plan's objectives. The synergy between the Energy Executive and multi-stakeholder Energy Forum provides fertile ground to explore the opportunities and, with this in mind, I very much look forward to the year ahead'.

3. The priorities for 2016-2020

Based on the evidence from the last five years, the priorities for this area have been identified for the next 5 years as follows:

Energy and emissions – The next 5 years

Continued implementation of the Energy Plan including annual reporting cycle and the 5 year review in 2020.

Agreed priorities within the Plan include:

• Focus on demand management across the following policy clusters: domestic; commercial and government and transport;
• Integrating energy issues into the Island Vision;
• Continued work around the local energy market to ensure that all energy is affordable and fuel poverty is minimised and markets function to the consumer's advantage;
• Ensuring that the local energy market is responsive to opportunities presented by disruptive technologies such as renewable energy embedded generation and storage facilities at the household and community level;
• Continue to prepare the policy and regulatory framework for the development of utility scale renewable energy.

1. Implementing the Energy Plan

The priority for the next 5 years is to implement the agreed Energy Plan within the revised budget envelope. The impact of the plan will be monitored and reported against the illustrated carbon reduction pathways and the policy levers will be adjusted as required. The 5 year review in 2020 will assess overall progress, review and revise the targets for the next 5 years and align the policy objectives. The greenhouse gas emissions inventory will continue to be published annually, providing a way of monitoring and assessing the impact of the implementation of action statements to achieve emissions reduction.

The priority action areas within the plan are focussed on the following three sectors:

• Domestic – an energy efficiency programme for the able to pay will be developed in partnership with local training providers and the construction industry. The impact of changes to energy standards in the building bye laws and the requirement to implement consequential improvements will be monitored. An ongoing public awareness campaign will continue to be run through the eco active programme.
• Commercial and government – the Energy Plan sets out targets for 2020 for the business (public and private) sector. The Department of the Environment will continue to work through eco active business, in

partnership with Jersey Business and other sector specific business support networks, to implement a series of measures that support energy management and emissions reduction. Progress towards the 2020 targets will be monitored on an annual basis through the Energy Plan reporting process.

• Transport – the transport chapter outlines the sustainable transport measures that will be implemented over the coming 5 years. Progress will be monitored in line with Energy Plan targets.

2. Energy and climate resilience integrated into Island Vision 2035

An Island wide consultation process is being undertaken with the aim of developing an Island Vision for 2035 that can be agreed in 2017 and adopted by the new States Assembly following the 2018 elections.

The requirement for ensuring secure, affordable and sustainable energy is recognised as one of the strategic objectives for the vision and is integral to the consultation process. Climate change is recognised within the process as a global megatrend that affects all aspects of the future plan. The results from the consultation, supported by the evidence base from this report will be used to shape the island vision and future strategic plan.

The Energy Plan and the development of a Jersey climate adaptation plan, as outlined in the climate chapter, must be integral to the development of future strategic planning documents and decision making.

3. Work with the local energy market

During the writing of this report, the UK referendum on whether to stay in the EU took place. The referendum result to leave the EU has created a climate of extreme uncertainty and at the time of writing it is not clear how the result will impact on global and European energy markets. It is likely that there will be changes in the market place which may impact pricing and access to energy markets. At this stage (June 2016) it is not possible to assess what this may look like, but this will be kept under review.

Channel Islands Competition and Regulatory Authorities will have an important role to play in understanding the changes that will take place and ensuring that the local energy market operates in a fair way to provide affordable and secure energy to Islanders.

4. Ensure energy market is responsive to disruptive technologies

Within the context of a volatile and changing local and international energy marketplace, it will be a priority to ensure that local energy providers are able to exploit opportunities to develop and implement new energy technologies at the local level.

The significant decrease in the cost of energy storage and electricity generation from photo voltaic arrays, mean that it will become more affordable for domestic scale embedded generation for use at home, for charging electric vehicles and for potential sale back into the grid. The further rollout of these technologies could potentially disrupt the current model of energy distribution which is based on a centralised distribution grid. These implications are challenging for the local energy market. They will require consideration to ensure that the market operates to enable the uptake of these disruptive technologies whilst not undermining the integrity and investment in the electricity grid.

5. Continue to prepare policy framework for utility scale renewable energy

In light of the recent (June 2016) referendum result, there may be changes to the current UK and EU renewable energy platform. Whilst the implications are unclear at the current time it may be that there will be changes to the access to markets and subsidy regime that is currently in place. The Department for External Relations will be working closely with UK colleagues throughout the EU negotiations.

Development work will continue as it is a key priority to put in place a legal framework to enable the commercialisation of utility scale renewables in Jersey waters. Legislation will be prepared based on good practise in other jurisdictions. The Jersey framework will need to be aligned with UK legislation. Changes in the relationship between the UK and EU will be monitored and the development of the legislation will need to be considered in light of the changing geopolitical landscape.

In 2016, Jersey will participate in the St Brieuc windfarm public enquiry[2]. The proposed St Brieuc windfarm is in French territorial waters. The planning and development process is likely to take up to 5 years to complete, and in the event of a favourable outcome, it is anticipated that the installation of the windfarm will commence in 2020. Whilst the St Brieuc windfarm will not be landing any electricity generated in Jersey, all power will be landed into the French grid, from which Jersey will continue to procure low carbon electricity.

Climate and Weather

Climate Trends

Climate change is now widely regarded as the greatest long-term threat to human society. Whilst the science of climate change continues to evolve, the processes are well understood and the impacts clearly measurable through increased global temperatures, increased severe weather events and changes to sea levels.

Jersey faces a growing challenge from the impacts of climate change and, in particular, the increased frequency and severity of weather events and sea- level rise. Jersey has already recognised climate change as a factor for consideration in terms of spatial planning and has started to enhance some aspects of its sea defences.

Areas of vulnerability and exposure to climate risk will need to be identified and made resilient to the impacts of severe weather in order to secure both business confidence, and the wider wellbeing of the community.

Climate change is having global impacts and these impacts are expected to intensify over the coming decades and will more adversely affect the most vulnerable communities who have the least resilience. Reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change[1], the Royal Society[2] and the Hadley Centre[3] draw together the climate science and make it clear that the causes of climate change are now well understood and that our knowledge of the impacts is growing. These impacts are complex but will be felt when increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather and long-term sea level rise take effect. The scientific evidence is clear; such changes are happening now and will continue to occur over the very long-term.

Reducing energy demand and emissions through mitigation, as outlined in the energy chapter, must remain the highest priority to reduce the scale of these impacts, but we need to prepare now to ensure resilience to increasing climate change impacts over the long-term.

This chapter provides an overview of observed local weather and climate trends and outlines the steps that will be taken over the next 5 years to develop climate resilience for the Island through an agreed climate adaptation plan (CAP).

1. The indicators

2.1.1. Weather and climate trends

It is important to understand the difference between climate and weather. Weather is a description of the state of the atmosphere at any one moment in time. Climate uses day-to-day statistics to calculate the normal against which we can compare the present. In climatology, a 30 year period of data is used as the benchmark against which to measure changes from that norm. In Jersey records representative of the Island's climate began to be recorded in 1894 at the Maison St Louis Observatory. The data has been compared against the calculated 1961-1990 norm period.

In 2004 the World Meteorological Organisation established a set of 27 climate indices based on the measurements of the daily extremes of air temperature and daily precipitation amount. The datasets are analysed in a number of ways to establish if there are any trends or relationships between them. For example;

• Whether the average diurnal variation between the maximum and minimum air temperature is changing;
• How the 95th percentile of precipitation total changes;
• How many nights in a year the minimum temperature is above a certain value and so on.

For this report, 8 indicators have been chosen that reflect climate change impacts of direct relevance to the Island. RAG statuses have been applied to show how the period 2011-2015 compares against the 1961-1990 norm and whether the trend is in line with climate change predictions. For example, climate change science forecasts that global temperatures will increase, the data shows that Jersey air temperature has increased by 1.1C against the 30 year norm and therefore is given a Yes status.

Indicator C1 – Increasing average air temperature (warmer)

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

0.0

-0.5 -1.0

-1.5

Year

• Mean air temp anomalies 1961-1990 Climate Norm Linear trend

Source: States of Jersey, Meteorological Department

Graph 2.1: Average air temperature anomalies with trend line, plotted against the 30 year norm average of 11.5°C.

Graph 2.1 is clearly showing a sharp increase in air temperature from the mid- 1980s to present day, with the last two years being some of the warmest in the series. Currently the average air temperature anomalies sit 1.1C above the 11.5C 30 year norm. This is consistent with global temperature change.  

Indicator C2 – Extended growing season

370 45% 360 40% 350 35% 340

• 30%

330

25% 320

• 20%

310

15% 300

290 10% 280 5% 270 0%

Year

Growing Season Length 1961-1990 Climate Norm Linear trend (Frequency)

Source: States of Jersey, Meteorological Department

Graph 2.2: Growing season length with trend line showing the increasing frequency of the growing season extending over the complete year, as well as 30 year climate norm of 347.2.

With any of these indices we will see a large year to year variation, but it is the trend taken over a number of years that is more important and tells us something about how the climate is changing. The data shows fluctuations in growing season length for the previous 100 years, and Graph 2.2 illustrates that Jersey's generally mild climate allows for, on average, a long growing season. Despite a drop in the average between 2006-2010 there is a clear increasing trend overall, with the 2011-2015 average growing season length reaching 363.4 days.

Looking at the two indicators C1 and C2 together, there is a positive trend which illustrates the increase in air temperature is extending the local growing season.

Indicator C3a – Increasing volumes of Winter rainfall

500

450

400

350 300 250

200

150

100 50

0

Year

• Winter rainfall 1961-1990 climate norm Linear trend

Source: States of Jersey, Meteorological Department

Graph 2.3: Winter rainfall totals with trend line, compared against the 30 year climate norm of 284.8mm.

As can be seen from Graph 2.3, the past 100 years has experienced variable levels of winter rainfall, with a steady increasing trend. The 2011-2015 average was 337.7mm, which is 52.9mm above the 30 year climate norm.

Indicator C3b – Increasing volumes of Summer rainfall

350

300

250

200 150 100 50

0

Year

• Summer rainfall 1961-1990 climate norm Linear trend

Source: States of Jersey, Meteorological Department

Graph 2.4: Summer rainfall totals with trend line, compared against the 30 year climate norm of 128.2mm.

Over the last 100 years the average amount of summer rainfall has marginally decreased overall, however the last 10 years has seen steady increases. Recent summers have been wetter than the climate norm, with the 2011-2015 average reaching 177.4mm. This is not however an observed trend as in climatology terms, the data covers a relatively short period of time, and is therefore not scientifically significant.

Indicators C3a and C3b show that the volume of winter rainfall recorded over the past 100 years has increased more quickly than the rate of decrease in summer rainfall.

Indicator C4 – Increasing number of heavy rainfall days (over 25mm)

7

6

5

4

3

2

1

0

Year

Heavy Rain Days 1961-1990 climate norm Linear trend Source: States of Jersey, Meteorological Department

Graph 2.5: Number of heavy rainfall days (greater than or equal to 25mm) per year with trend line, plotted against the 30 year climate norm of 2.5 days.

Climate change scientists predict an increase in storminess as the global mean surface temperature and hence energy input to the atmosphere increases. A heavy rainfall day is defined as one in which the rainfall is 25mm or more. Graph 2.5 shows significant variability from year to year, but the trend line supports global predictions, showing an increasing number of heavy rainfall days overall.

In contrast, the data for the period 2005-2015 shows a decline in the number of heavy rainfall days. This is not however an observed trend as in climatology terms, the data covers a relatively short period of time, and is therefore not scientifically significant.

The overall trend when considering indicators C3a, C3b and C4 together is a general increase in rainfall throughout the seasons. Despite a slight decline in heavy rainfall days over the last decade, the overall amount of rainfall has still continued to increase.

Indicator C5a – Decreasing number of cold spells

28

24

20

16

12

8

4

0

Year

Cold spell duration 1961-1990 climate norm Linear trend Source: States of Jersey, Meteorological Department

Graph 2.6: Cold spell duration (annual count of days with at least 6 consecutive days or more with air temperatures less than 2.9 °C) with trend line, plotted against the 30 year climate norm of 4.1 days.

Between 2005 and 2010 the average number of cold spell days was 2.0, which further decreased to 1.6 days between 2011 and 2015. Graph 2.6 shows the steady decline in cold spell days over the past 100 years.

Indicator C5b – Increasing number of warm spells

48

40

32

24

16

8

0

Year

Warm spell duration 1961-1990 climate norm Linear trend Source: States of Jersey, Meteorological Department

Graph 2.7: Warm spell duration (annual count of days with at least 6 consecutive days or more with air temperatures greater than 21.5 °C) with trend line, plotted against the 30 year climate norm of 5.1 days.

As can be seen from Graph 2.7, the number of warm spell days has increased significantly over time. This is particularly evident over recent years with the 2011-2015 average reaching 24.4 days, almost 5 times the climate norm of 5.1 days.

Looking at indicators C5a and C5b together, from the data it is evident that over the last 10 years there is a clear decline in the number of cold spell days and a significant increase in the number of warm spell days, when compared to the 30 year norm. This is in line with global climate predictions.

Indicator C6 – Increasing sea temperature

14.0

13.5

13.0

12.5

12.0

11.5

11.0 10.5 10.0

Year

• Sea temperatures 1961-1990 climate norm Linear trend

Source: States of Jersey, Meteorological Department

Graph 2.8: Annual mean sea temperature with trend line, compared against the 30 year climate norm of 12.3C.

Sea temperature has been recorded at St Helier Harbour since 1933. Graph 2.8 shows a clear increase in long term sea temperature, which has risen sharply since the late 1980s. In the last 5 years alone, the average sea temperature has risen to 13.1C, which is 0.8C higher than the climate norm. This is consistent with global trends.

This set of indicators, shows that the Jersey climate has been changing since records began in 1895. There has been an increase in air and sea temperatures and rainfall.

The long-term climate changes that are highlighted by the trends in the indicators are in line with the global pattern of climate change, particularly the marked warming trend over recent years.

2. Update on 2010 priority actions

In 2010 the following priority actions were identified for the period of 2010 to 2015. This section assesses progress against these in the last five years.

Climate (State of Jersey Report 2010)

Prepare for the local effects of global climate change: different rainfall regimes, rising sea levels, increased stormy weather and the impacts of this on our sea defences and flood prevention systems.

The indicators show that the Island's weather is displaying patterns consistent with global patterns of climate change. The challenge is to consider how to ensure the Island is resilient and adapts to the impacts of climate change.

2.2.1. Preparing for the effects of climate change

The Jersey climate resilience and adaptation work stream commenced in December 2014. A series of stakeholder events took place over a five month period, culminating in a local conference and publication of the Future Proofing Jersey report and recommendations, authored by Town and Country Planning Association[4]. Since publication in April 2015, work has been coordinated by the Department of the Environment to commence work on the 10 recommendations.

Jersey needs to consider what resilience measures it needs to put in place in order to adapt to a changing climate. The importance of an accurate evidence baseline using the records of the past and present weather is critical for understanding the atmospheric processes and our climate. The Jersey Meteorological Department is committed to collecting high quality meteorological information and in partnership with the UK Meteorological Office, contributing these to larger data sets for use in climate modelling.

Whilst significant progress has been made in bringing climate change adaptation into both the corporate and political arenas, there is still much to do. This is reflected in the priority actions for the next 5 years.

In 2015 the Island's coastal sea defence strategy was updated to take into account the predicted sea level rise over this century. Some of Jersey's coastal defences will need to be improved to provide adequate protection from coastal flooding.[5]

Whilst there are some examples of how the impacts of a changing climate have started to be considered, such as Jersey Water's 25 year Plan and the Island Plan 2011, the development of a co-ordinated response though a CAP for Jersey is clearly a priority action for the next 5 years.

3. The priorities for 2016-2020

Based on the evidence from the last five years, the priorities for this area have been identified for the next 5 years as follows:

Climate Trends – The next 5 years

Develop an Island wide strategic response to adapt to the local impacts of global climate change. Develop a costed Climate Adaptation Plan (CAP):

Developing this Plan includes the following:

• Agree the baseline evidence to develop an agreed resilience factor for Jersey;
• Undertake a risk assessment to identify priorities for strategic planning including the Island Vision, the Island Plan review, infrastructure planning and ensure climate resilience and response is integrated into emergency risk registers and response plans;
• Carry out an economic assessment of risks of climate change impacts versus the investment needed in climate resilience;
• Ensure a coordinated process to develop a climate resilience and adaptation framework that includes all stakeholders in a framework of corporate governance;
• Continue to monitor local weather, atmospheric trends and input to UK based climate models and work with experts to establish and report accurate data on sea level rise.

1. Agree baseline evidence and resilience factor

Building resilience to the impacts of climate change must be based on an agreed resilience factor using verified baseline evidence. This resilience factor can then be used to assess the degree of risk that individual climate impacts present to vulnerable areas and enables consideration of the interaction of these risks that arise through joint probability of occurrence. In order to identify and evaluate these risks, robust data sets and analysis of a wide range of socio economic and environmental factors is required; once the baseline evidence, risk assessment and agreement of resilience factor has been carried out, the second step of a clear process of adaptive management should commence based on an agreed and costed set of priorities.

2. Undertake risk assessment to identify priority actions

The adaptation planning process will follow the planning cycle of evidence gathering, setting priorities, implementation and review. This will require the establishment of key corporate policy goals and the integration of both resilience factors and adaptation measures into a wide range of existing strategies: including business continuity, emergency planning, critical infrastructure plans, spatial planning strategy through the Island Plan and the strategic objectives of the Island Vision.

The comprehensive resilience action plan will be based on international best practice. It is critical that this plan is incorporated as one of the corporate priorities of the States of Jersey. It will set out the key risks and vulnerabilities as well as key sectoral actions in relation to spatial planning, flood defence, transport, economic development, health-care, energy and emergency planning.

The review of the Island Plan, which sets out the Island's spatial planning strategy for the next ten years, will commence in 2017, and the revised Plan will be adopted in 2020. The Plan and supporting supplementary planning guidance will be underpinned by the agreed resilience factor which will be based on the baseline evidence. In order to ensure adaptation measures are incorporated into the Island Plan review process, consideration of a range of factors, from long-term spatial distribution through to building-scale actions to enhance resilience, will be required.

3. Assess economic impacts and opportunities

A priority issue is the interaction of climate impacts and the strategic function and growth of St Helier. St Helier is a critical asset to the island, and faces particular vulnerability from a combination of its geography, high tides and storm surges. The Future of the St Helier project provides an opportunity to integrate resilience principles into the planning process. This will require a multi-agency and multi-disciplinary approach including the engagement of Department of the Environment, Parish of St Helier, Ports of Jersey, Department for Infrastructure, and other key stakeholders and interest groups.

A coordinated approach to data collection across all sectors and States of Jersey departments will be taken in order to enhance the knowledge base of risks and vulnerabilities. Understanding the long-term economic risk and opportunities for the Island is vital and will include an assessment of Jersey's resilience in relation to its international competitors, as well as securing a more detailed economic assessment of climate impacts. The social impact of climate change, particularly upon those least able to mitigate its impact, will also be an important consideration.

4. Establish governance framework to ensure stakeholder involvement

Delivering action on climate resilience will require both political will and wider community and stakeholder engagement. A communications and awareness- raising strategy focussed on wider public engagement will be developed. A Climate Summit to raise awareness and increase understanding of the adaptive response is seen as an important element within this communications strategy.

5. Continue monitoring climate trends

The Jersey Metereological Service will continue to monitor weather and climate trends in line with best practise and will publish information on www.gov.je to assess the impact of climate change on the local situation.

Fresh and Marine Waters

Fresh and Marine Waters

Water resources and the range of services they provide are very important to us: they underpin economic growth, support healthy communities and are fundamental to environmental sustainability.

The water resources in Jersey are all interconnected. Rainfall replenishes the groundwater resource. Groundwater provides the water in wells and boreholes and forms springs and streams that keeps streams flowing during the dryer months. This water in our streams is captured in reservoirs for drinking water, abstracted for irrigation or other uses and maintains stream habitats as it flows towards our beaches and into the sea.

In a small, busy island where minor pollution events can have severe impacts, prevention is definitely better than cure. Individual actions can make a positive difference. Pollution prevention advice and education is a key work area delivered by the Department of the Environment.

Pollution can be split into two broad types:

• Point source pollution: pollution emitted from a single and identifiable source (for example, a leaking heating oil tank in the garden, a leaking septic tank, a drum containing chemicals dumped in the stream).
• Diffuse source pollution: pollution that derives from a wider area (for example; slurry/animal waste spread to land, fertilizer spread onto a field).

Water resources can be protected by taking some basic measures, such as, a simple weekly inspection of domestic oil tanks to check for cracks, reading and following a pesticide label instruction, spreading organic wastes correctly, disposing of unwanted chemical responsibly or using water saving tips and techniques. Information on pollution prevention is available on www.gov.je.[1]

1. The indicators

1. Drinking water supply

Almost all of the island's drinking water comes from rainfall that flows into streams that are then diverted into our reservoirs. Jersey Water can take water from most of the islands streams and transfer water around between reservoirs. This ensures that reservoirs are kept as full as possible and allows for the high demand for water we have in Jersey and the seasonal variation in rainfall.

The majority (97%) of water abstracted, is from surface water resources. The remaining water is taken from five boreholes located in the sand aquifer in St Ouen's Bay. The amount of water taken is within those allowed under licensing arrangements under the Water Resources (Jersey) Law 2007. Jersey Water also operates a desalination plant to maintain supply during particularly dry periods.

A key challenge for Jersey Water is to ensure an adequate water supply for the future needs of an increasing population, within the challenges being experienced through climate change. In 2010 Jersey Water published a 25 year Water Resources Management Plan. This plan projected the water needs in Jersey for the next 25 years, identified pressures and recommended safeguard actions to achieve water security.

The plan recognised two main areas of intervention:

• Managing demand (water metering, leakage reduction etc),
• Maximising supply (repair and possible extension of Val de la Mare Reservoir etc.)

The Department of the Environment works closely with Jersey Water to help ensure that the water supply to reservoirs is maintained and is of sufficient quality for abstraction.

Indicator FW1a - The volume of treated drinking water supplied by Jersey Water per annum

8,000 104,000

• 102,000

7,500 100,000 7,000 98,000

• 96,000

6,500 94,000

• 92,000

6,000 90,000 5,500 88,000

86,000

5,000 84,000

Year

Quantity of drinking water supplied Population

Source: Jersey Water

Graph 3.1: Quantity of drinking water supplied by Jersey Water, with annual population figures.[2]

The graph shows that the volume of water supplied by Jersey Water has remained more or less constant over the past decade despite an 11% increase in the Island's population. This has been achieved through a number of water saving initiatives, including a move to universal metering, which was completed in 2015. The programme has resulted in a significant reduction in demand due to a change in customer's water usage behaviour.

The quality of drinking water supplied by Jersey Water continues to be of a high standard. In 2016 a significant water quality issue emerged and this resulted in an extension of the monitoring of ground and surface water. This identified the presence of a legacy pesticide Oxadixyl' which resulted in the temporary closure of Val de la Mare reservoir. Jersey Water blended water resources to ensure that the mains water supply remained within drinking water limits as set out in the Water (Jersey) Law 1972. These are identical to the drinking water quality regulations in England & Wales. The overall water quality compliance level between 2011 and 2015 was typically greater than 99.8%, which is comparable with performance levels reported by water supply companies in England & Wales.

However, as a consequence of high levels of nitrate in streams and groundwater, which comes from fertilisers and organic sources, Jersey Water currently has a derogation under the Water (Jersey) Law 1972, which allows a proportion of samples in any one year to exceed the usual 50 mg/l nitrate limit in the mains water supply. The Department of the Environment established a diffuse pollution project in 2010[3] to reduce catchment losses of nitrogen, and tackling this issue continues to be a priority one for the Department, along with phosphate and pesticides in water.