Sustainable communities are where people want to live and work, meeting diverse needs while respecting the environment. They enhance quality of life, are safe, inclusive, and well-planned, offering equal opportunities and essential services for all. So how can we make our community more sustainable?

Our vision at Arran Eco Savvy is to make a positive contribution towards achieving the island’s potential:  A happy thriving community living sustainably, with clean air, zero waste and an un-spoilt, unpolluted beautiful environment, enriched with a healthy population of wild life, flora & fauna on the Isle of Arran.

When it comes to addressing and tackling climate change we (the reader) can’t solely tackle it ourselves, which is where our sustainable community comes into play. A sustainable community is diverse and reflects its local circumstances.

What are the components you need to have a sustainable community?

A sustainable community typically includes:

Social:

• Safe, energy-efficient homes in various tenures to support a diverse population and keep families together.
• Opportunities for community activities and access to nature and green spaces.
• Essential services like shops, entertainment, and medical facilities.
• Support for schools, places of worship, community buildings, and cultural activities.
• Access to quality education, high-speed internet, and reliable public transport.

Environment:

• Collaborative efforts to conserve and enhance the area.
• Sustainable land management that protects biodiversity and ecosystems.
• Focus on reuse, repair, recycling, and shorter, eco-friendly supply chains.
• Clean air, water, and soil, with development that promotes biodiversity.
• Renewable energy and proactive risk management for floods and other hazards.
• Waste elimination systems.

Economy:

• Sustainable, innovative workplaces.
• Access to apprenticeships, training, and conditions for business growth.
• Focus on local employment, reducing commuting, and supporting self-employment.
• Access to sustainable products and services.

How do we collectively work towards a more sustainable Arran?

The Isle of Arran has an amazing active community! And we are so proud to be part of it.

This September why not join the Great British Big Beach Clean? Currently there is one beach clean in Arran planned for Sunday the 29th of September – the time is dependent on the tide. Equipment like pickers will be provided but we recommend you bring warm clothes and gloves. For more information please email megan@arranecosavvy.org.uk.

Another great event this September is being organised by COAST. On Sunday the 29th of September between 10am and 2pm they are hosting a car boot sale. It’s £5 per table/car and its a great way to pass on your pre-loved items. Book via email – email@arrancoast.com.

You can also volunteer in the various community gardens dotted around the island. Cordon is open typically every Thursday and Sunday from 11am, Pirnmill is open typically every Sunday from 11am and Corrie typicallt every Wednesday and Saturday. Cladach, Kilpatrick and Claughlands are also open for volunteer days but it varies throughout the season, please email arran@pioneerproject.scot for more information.

You can support local initiatives like participating in environmental groups like TAP – Think about Plastic, Arran Eco Savvy, and the Community of Arran Seabed Trust (COAST). Or help protect our unique biodiversity by supporting Arran Geopark, Roots of Arran and Arran Community Land Initiative. You also support a circular economy but following reduce, reuse and recycle. We have two amazing charity shops on Arran – ArCaS in Brodick and our Community Store in Whiting Bay.

Collaborating to grow more food, protect our island and its natural habitats, and live sustainably all contribute to a healthier, more sustainable Arran.

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