Landmark regulations that secure Wales' climate commitments and
enable the roll-out of the Sustainable Farming Scheme have been
passed in the Senedd.
Members today approved bold new regulations that reinforce
climate action and transform agricultural support.
Collectively, they mark a major step forward in Wales' response
to tackling the climate and nature emergencies and promoting
sustainable land management and food production.
The Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change
and Rural Affairs, , described the moment as “historic for the
Welsh environment”.
Wales has already cut its emissions by more than a third since
1990. The new climate regulations set Wales' fourth carbon budget
at a 73% reduction in emissions and require the third carbon
budget to be met entirely through domestic action.
After seven years of development, the agriculture regulations are
the final step in ensuring the Welsh Government can launch the
Sustainable Farming Scheme in January. This provides the
stability and support farmers need to be more resilient,
productive and sustainable.
The Deputy First Minister said:
“While others retreat from climate commitments, Wales is staying
the course.
“We are doubling down on climate action and forging a new
partnership with Welsh farmers that will secure their businesses
and our environment for generations to come.
"The impacts of climate change are a real and present danger.
Recent floods in Monmouth and across Wales remind us that
inaction means higher energy bills, more extreme weather, and an
uncertain future for our children.
“These regulations deliver the opposite: cheaper bills, cleaner
air, new green jobs, and a safer, more secure Wales.
“The Sustainable Farming Scheme supports sustainable food
production and responds to the climate and nature emergencies.
“Our ambition is a thriving, confident agriculture industry built
around innovation and growth.
“We've recently finished a run of roadshows, speaking to farmers
about the Sustainable Farming Scheme, and the feedback has been
very positive, with lots of them preparing for the start of the
Scheme.
“I would encourage those yet to look into the scheme to do so as
soon as possible.
"The result of today's votes protects our communities, supports
our farmers, and delivers hope for current and future
generations."
