Minister demands a climate of accountability and delivery

9 Mar 2015 12:56 PM

A low carbon future for Wales is dependent on government at all levels and wider public services being upfront and transparent about how they are delivering on climate change, Natural Resources Minister Carl Sargeant said rrecently.

Outlining how the Welsh Government plans to strengthen its own delivery in meeting emissions targets, the Minister said the Welsh Government intends to move to carbon budgets which are clear on the contribution needed from different sectors and where accountability lies.

Carl Sargeant said:

“With a challenge as serious as climate change and an opportunity as great as green growth I believe there is a fundamental need for transparency. People in Wales should not only have the right to know how their government and its departments are delivering, but also how their local areas and their wider public services are delivering.

“In moving to carbon budgets our aim is to set out a clear pathway within the context of our existing UK and EU obligations for at least an 80% reduction in emissions by 2050.”  

The Minister said that this pathway towards decarbonisation would not only provide transparency but also certainty and clarity for investment. 

“I will develop these budgets on expert advice, in particular from the UK Committee on Climate Change, to ensure that we reduce emissions in a way that not only delivers on our obligations but maximises the economic and social benefits to Wales of doing so,”

he said.

The Minister highlighted the Welsh Government/ERDF funded energy efficiency scheme Arbed as an example of how taking action on climate change can deliver jobs, support local communities and tackle poverty.

On a visit to the Castleland area of Barry to meet with people who have benefitted from the Arbed 2 Programme the Minister said:

“Our commitment to tackling climate change is being driven ahead through measures to increase energy savings and efficiency, through low carbon energy generation and by making the most of opportunities for practical skills and green jobs.

“This scheme is an example of how well planned and managed investment can produce real benefits for people and businesses, as well as for the environment and Wales’s long term future.”