Samsø is a small island off Jutland in Denmark. It has a small population of about 4000, who are mainly farmers. What set this island apart from many other islands is that it is the first industrialised island to be 100% self-sufficient in energy.

The people of the island had wind farm construct to meet their electricity needs. They have more than enough that electricity is exported back to mainland Denmark. The tractors the farmers use are powered by fuel made from the straw and other biofuel they grow in their farms. The only fossil fuel usage comes from the cars they use for transport. But given they export electricity, it is kind of offset.

What Samsø inspire us all is that carbon neutral and completely powered by renewable energy is possible. Eventhough it is a small insignificant island, it provide us a model for future sustainable development.

When asked why are they doing this, the people of Samsø answer, "We just want to save our island."

More info:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=baeGMF-z0fM&feature=related