WHEN it comes to world issues, many now recognise that there’s nothing more significant than protecting the planet we live on. That is why news that the local branch of eco-campaigners Friends of the Earth is disbanding is rather sad to hear.

As the Guernsey Press’ centrespread story today reveals, the announcement heralds the end of 19 years of work by a group which has fought hard to put green issues on everyone’s radar.

From spreading the word about the growing threats to our environment to encouraging people to make even small lifestyle changes, the team has played a major part in reaching the public and  the decision makers.

Back in 1989 theirs was a relatively lone voice. But what a difference almost a couple of decades can make. Recent history, particularly global warming,   have shown that environmental warnings should have been heeded far sooner.

And today’s social and political agendas reflect this. Green matters have moved way up the list both locally and internationally.

As our page one story reveals, our latest

decisions about future energy choices are now, rightly, being heavily influenced by the impact such policies will have on our climate.

Businesses have responded, from the giant multinationals to our smaller island enterprises.

Many have revisited their priorities and made a real commitment to environmental issues.

Just a glance at the local business community’s response to the recent Go Green Guernsey awards supports this. And the Guernsey Press is striving to play a part, too, from recycling newsprint to launching a dedicated Environment page.

But most significantly so have consumers. Whether paying for a carrier bag, opting for an eco-friendly or organic product off the shelf or popping down to a bottle bank, such changes that are now almost second nature to us all are literally changing the world we live in.

Guernsey’s government-led waste strategies and recycling measures are working too: though there is still much to be done if we are to catch up with some of our European neghbours.

However, at least the ‘E’ word is out there. Which is why the demise of the local FoE will surprise many. But the good news is that other organisations, such as  G-CAN, have picked up the baton.

Living in such a beautiful part of the world  as  Guernsey helps give environmental issues an even higher profile.

After 20 years, let us hope to see more policies coming forward that need not cost the earth.