Environment & Renewable Energy

Papay’s environment is fundamental to its special character, and we must protect our natural landscape, habitats, vegetation and wildlife which are so important to our tourist industry and quality of life. We will consider renewable energy and other initiatives to reduce our environmental impact and increase our sustainability as an island community. Conservation and improvement of the environment must be integrated in all our planning.

Community Renewable Energy Enterprise (prioritised)

Establish a community renewable energy enterprise and promote energy saving initiatives to improve the sustainability of the isle and potentially generate income for local community development projects.

Coastal Erosion (prioritised)

Carry out projects to prevent coastal erosion through the restoration of natural dunes and repair of traditional sea defences/carsies.

Community Allotment Polytunnel & Farmers Market

Establish a scheme to encourage local food production and a regular farmers market providing an outlet for producers to sell fresh, seasonal local food and produce.

Protect Papay’s Biodiversity

Papay’s biodiversity needs careful management, such as our nationally important Scottish Primrose colonies and breeding areas for threatened birds. Activities include support for continued management of the North Hill nature reserve and local corncrake and habitat conservation initiatives with landowners;

Ensure continuation of an RSPB Summer Warden service for long-term monitoring of the North Hill reserve and other areas and for local ecotourism;

Support the conservation management of new Local Nature Conservation Sites designated under the Orkney Local Development Plan