The St Ives bay Rea is home to some of the most stunning landscapes and seascapes in the world. From our pristine beaches to the rugged coastal paths and rolling countryside, our environment is not just a treasure—it’s the lifeblood of our community, our economy, and our way of life.
The Challenges We Face
While our environment is breathtaking, it is also fragile. Over-tourism, pollution, and climate change threaten to undermine the very beauty that draws people here. Plastic waste, dog mess, and overdevelopment are ongoing issues, and balancing the needs of visitors with the rights of residents can be challenging. Additionally, we must ensure our local economy thrives in a sustainable way that benefits everyone.
One recent example is the controversy surrounding a proposal by a Canadian company, Planetary Technologies, to test ocean alkalinity enhancement in St Ives Bay. The plan involved adding up to 300 tonnes of magnesium hydroxide (brucite) into the sea to remove CO2 from the atmosphere. Despite assurances from the company about the safety and minimal impact of the experiment, the community raised significant concerns about the potential risks to the marine ecosystem.
In April 2023, over 300 protesters gathered at Gwithian Towans, with more than 60 surfers staging a paddle-out demonstration at Godrevy to oppose the proposal. While the company engaged with the community and worked to address concerns, the Environment Agency ultimately requested an indefinite pause on the project until stricter criteria, including an independent environmental impact assessment, are met. This incident underscores the importance of thorough scrutiny and community involvement in decisions that affect our environment.
My Commitment to Sustainability
Protecting our unique environment requires bold action and long-term vision. Here are the key steps I’m committed to taking:
- Safeguarding Landscapes: I will work to ensure that our coastlines, countryside, and heritage sites are protected from overdevelopment and exploitation. This includes supporting planning policies that prioritize sustainable development and respecting our local character.
- Cleaner Oceans and Beaches: Our beaches and waters are a source of pride and livelihood. I will advocate for stronger measures to reduce plastic pollution, enforce clean-up efforts, and hold polluters accountable.
- Action on Dog Mess: This is a consistent concern for residents and visitors alike. I will push for better education campaigns, improved signage, and increased enforcement to address this issue.
- Sustainable Tourism: Tourism is vital to our local economy, but it must be managed carefully. I will promote initiatives that encourage sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-friendly accommodations, waste reduction, and incentivizing visitors to respect our environment.
- Green Infrastructure: Investing in green spaces and environmentally-friendly infrastructure is essential. I will support projects that enhance our natural surroundings while reducing our community’s carbon footprint.
The Benefits of Protecting Our Environment
By taking these steps, we can:
- Preserve the natural beauty of St Ives, Carbis Bay, and Lelant for future generations.
- Strengthen our local economy by promoting sustainable tourism that benefits the community directly.
- Improve the quality of life for residents by maintaining cleaner, greener spaces.
- Combat the effects of climate change at a local level and inspire others to do the same.
Join Me in Protecting Our Home
We all have a role to play in safeguarding our environment. Whether it’s reducing waste, supporting local initiatives, or sharing your ideas, your involvement matters.
Let’s work together to ensure that St Ives, Carbis Bay, and Lelant remain as stunning and vibrant tomorrow as they are today. Visit my website or get in touch to share your thoughts on how we can protect our unique environment.
