Updated:<\/strong> Mon 21st Jul <\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t The Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, Derek Walker, has warned that a landmark piece of legislation aimed at protecting and restoring nature could fail without a legally binding target to drive urgent action.<\/p>\n The draft Environment (Principles, Governance and Biodiversity Targets) (Wales) Bill, currently being scrutinised in the Senedd, lacks a headline nature recovery target on its face\u2014a gap Mr Walker says must be addressed before the Bill is passed.<\/p>\n On July 17, Mr Walker will present evidence to the Climate Change, Environment and Infrastructure Committee as part of the Bill\u2019s Stage One scrutiny, urging the inclusion of a clear, measurable target to guide nature restoration from day one.<\/p>\n \u201cAdding a nature recovery target to the law now would be a critical step toward a greener, healthier future for Wales,\u201d said Mr Walker. \u201cTargets create momentum, drive accountability, and ensure every sector plays a role. Without one, we\u2019re deferring action and leaving nature\u2019s future to chance.\u201d<\/p>\n Wales is currently facing significant declines in species abundance, a key indicator of ecosystem health. One in six species, including water voles, are at risk of extinction, with native species such as the curlew and Atlantic salmon in critical decline.<\/p>\n The commissioner supports proposals to adopt species abundance as the headline measure of biodiversity health, with interim and long-term deadlines to track progress. He also stresses the need for a clear plan of action and sustainable funding.<\/p>\n Without a legally binding target included in the Bill, the responsibility for setting such targets would fall to future Senedd governments, potentially delaying implementation until 2029. Campaigners warn this could jeopardise Wales\u2019 commitment to protect 30% of land and sea by 2030.<\/p>\n Mr Walker highlighted the wider benefits of nature recovery, including its vital role in public health and wellbeing. He pointed to initiatives such as Pembrokeshire\u2019s Outdoor Health Project and therapeutic meadows at Llandough Hospital as examples of nature supporting healing and mental health.<\/p>\n The commissioner also urged public bodies to use tools like Wrexham Council\u2019s Tree Equity Score to ensure equitable access to nature, particularly in disadvantaged areas facing greater impacts from air pollution and heat.<\/p>\n Public consultation on the Bill remains open until July 30, 2025. Residents are encouraged to have their say via the Senedd website<\/a>:<\/p>\n \t \t\t\t\t\t
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