Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
New Environmental Challenges
When it comes to environmental issues, Wales is hugely ambitious. In part the environ-
mental focus is sharper in Wales because the crucial tourism industry is so closely associ-
ated with the country's natural environment. Dogged in this endeavour, the National
Assembly sought and received independence from the rest of the UK on environmental le-
gislation.
The 'One Wales: One Planet' manifesto lays down challenges to be achieved by 2025,
among them a minimum 80% reduction in carbon-based energy reliance and an electricity
supply derived entirely from renewable sources. Bolstering its ambition to eliminate waste
production by 2050, Wales already recycles and composts more than 45% of its rubbish.
The enthusiasm for sustainable lifestyles in Wales can be traced back to St David himself who taught his
followers the importance of living in harmony with nature.
Although agri-environment schemes such as 'Glastir' remunerate farmers who adopt en-
vironmentally sensitive practices and incorporate tree-planting programs aimed at dramat-
ically expanding woodland, the comprehensive 2013 State of Nature study warned that
wildlife in Wales was at a crisis point with one in 10 species facing extinction. Farming
practices were blamed for loss of habitat, and woodland management policies were under
fire for not placing enough emphasis on biodiversity. Upland wading birds such as curlews,
lapwings and golden plovers, and wildflowers, butterflies and woodland plants are particu-
larly affected and conservation groups believe the next decade will be crucial to their sur-
vival.
Critics also maintain that government policies are not always in line with sustainable de-
velopment indicators. In 2012 test drilling for shale gas was approved, a decision which
could have major implications for the Welsh environment. Campaigners warn of cata-
strophic consequences if companies are allowed to use fracking (a controversial extraction
technique which blasts water, sand and chemicals through rock at extreme pressures) to re-
lease gas in the abandoned mines of South Wales. The UK Government maintains that if
fracking is approved high standards of safety and environmental protection will be ensured.
With an estimated £120 billion's worth of recoverable gas reserves in one layer of rock in
one area of South Wales alone, campaigners will have a sizeable battle on their hands.
