Eigg is one of a collection of islands in the Scottish Inner Hebrides called the Small Isles. Measuring just 5 miles wide by 3 miles long, it’s one of the smallest islands. It lies 15 miles from the mainland and is reliant on a ferry that runs a few times a week, weather permitting, to deliver mail and supplies. Despite having just 110 residents, the Isle of Eigg is a model of forward-thinking, sustainable, eco-conscious living. Since residents can’t just pop down to the mall and get something, sustainability has been a major part of life on the island. The island does have one grocery store that doubles as a post office, but it carries only the basic staples. It also has a small complex that houses a cafe, craft shop, bike rental and a laundromat. Launched in 2008, Eigg was the world's first community to launch an off-grid electric system powered by wind, water and solar. The three systems complement each other so that almost any weather condition is conducive to producing electricity. To ensure a ready supply, there are still backup generators, but the overwhelming majority comes from renewable sources. Before, the island was reliant on diesel generators, which were supplied by diesel fuel that was shipped to the island. For heating, most of the residents use wood-burning stoves. A tree nursery has been set up to replant where the old trees were cut down for fuel. Residents say all these improvements can be made because they own the island and have no city government to deal with.
