Case Study: Community Pathways to Sustainability: Isle of Eigg Development Trust
Lying 10 miles off the Scottish west coast, covering only 12 square miles, and with a population of 109, the Isle of Eigg is the second-largest of the Small Isles. Motivated by a series of neglectful landlords and poor stewardship of the island’s homes, infrastructure and natural environment, local residents mobilised to purchase their island. Since the buyout, the community and the Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust have worked to improve the built and natural environment of the island. Their environmental activities include renewable energy generation, conservation and maintenance, and eco-tourism, earning it the moniker of ‘Britain’s most eco-friendly island.’