Guernsey Water's annual report highlights environmental action

The introduction of the Refill scheme, aimed at reducing plastic use, together with further development of a biodiversity strategy,  has resulted from investment in Guernsey Water's 'Protect our Environment' business plan outcome.

Steve Langlois, Guernsey Water's General Manager said: "As guardians of our water from source to sea, protecting our environment is very important to us. From simple steps like reducing our office waste to introducing larger public schemes like Refill, making efforts to protect our environment is always at the front of our minds."

Refill as a scheme was introduced in 2018 in partnership with Guernsey Waste and Plastic Free Guernsey, it promotes a reduction in single use plastic bottles by offering free tap water top ups through local shops, cafes and businesses signing up as Refill stations. Guernsey Water also supports a number of local events, such as the Saffery Rotary Walk by providing standpipes for walkers to refill bottles.

"Refill and the provision of standpipes is a real positive for us, we are helping the environment by promoting a reduction of single use plastic bottles, as well as giving back to the community during events, it is something that fits well with our values," said Mr Langlois.

The utility confirmed that it has been working to further develop its biodiversity strategy, with the help of field studies it has introduced alternative grounds maintenance cycles in order to encourage wildlife and boost biodiversity at some of its sites with plans to include more in future.

Guernsey Water's current project to improve the St Sampson's wastewater catchment will also reduce the risk of sewer flooding and pollution from overflows on either side of the St Sampson's harbour entrance. The first phase of this work was completed in 2017 with the final phase due to be completed later this year.

"We look at ways that we can reduce environmental impact wherever we can with projects, whether this includes changes to our infrastructure, or is simply the least environmentally disruptive way in which we are able to carry out certain works," said Mr Langlois.

Guernsey Water's full annual report can be viewed by visiting 

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