NRW statement in response to the Introduction of the Environment (Principles, Governance and Biodiversity Targets) (Wales) Bill

Dominic Driver Acting Executive Director for Evidence, Policy and Permitting for NRW said:  

“We welcome the Welsh Government’s announcement and fully support the Introduction of the Environment (Principles, Governance and Biodiversity Targets) (Wales) Bill, including its commitment to embed international environmental principles into Welsh law, set statutory biodiversity targets, and establish a dedicated statutory environmental governance body,  to protect biodiversity and enhance the wellbeing of the people of Wales.

“Nature benefits everyone and a healthy and valued natural environment, is crucial in supporting our food systems, health, livelihoods, economy, and sense of place.

“Now more than ever, urgent, and sustained action is needed to halt and reverse biodiversity loss, and to build the resilience of both our ecosystems and communities. 

“We remain committed to tackling the climate and nature emergencies, and to addressing environmental risks - including floods, heatwaves, droughts, wildfires and minimising risk of pollution - by making informed decisions that deliver the greatest long-term benefit for Wales and future generations.

“We will continue to work closely with the Welsh Government on the development and implementation of the Office of Environmental Governance Wales and would like to see it established as soon as practicably possible. 

“We want to see targets set that cover the broad aims of the Global Biodiversity Framework so that they help us pursue a broader, proactive approach for change across society and economy - especially food, energy, and transport - alongside targeted habitat and species interventions that are needed to enable nature to recover.

“While the new body is being established, we will continue to engage with the current arrangements by providing evidence and reports in areas of relevance such as water quality, protected sites, and tree protection and hedgerows.

“NRW will continue to play an active role in helping the Senedd process to shape the implementation of the Bill, ensuring it delivers meaningful outcomes for nature and people. We are committed to supporting its success by contributing our evidence, expertise, and operational insight to support the delivery of sustainable development, strengthen biodiversity governance, and enhance the well-being of the people and nature in Wales."