More ambition needed on emissions

13 June 2013

A report just published [1] outlines the potential for the Welsh Government to be more ambitious in cutting greenhouse gas emissions. This is the first time data has been available to measure the Welsh Government's performance in meeting its emissions reduction target.

The definitive report on emissions states that Welsh emissions decreased by 5.4% between 2010 and 2011. Over the same period, English emissions decreased by 6.6% and Scottish emissions by 10.5%.

Gareth Clubb, Director of Friends of the Earth Cymru, said: "Wales' performance in 2011 exceeded the 3% reduction target, which is good news. Transport emissions have remained stubbornly high though, and the Welsh Government needs to focus on getting people travelling in ways that improve their health and the environment.

The stunning level of emissions reduction being demonstrated in Scotland is a clear indication of the potential to make huge environmental gains with devolution. We have long argued that we need to be reducing emissions by 9% per year to stay in line with climate science. The evidence from Scotland is that not only is such a target achievable, it's entirely in line with an economy that consistently outperforms ours.

"The UK Government is holding us back too, with its infatuation with old, tired ways of doing things. Just this week we've seen two new proposals for fossil fuel power stations in Hirwaun and Wrexham. An alternative future is available: a green economy powered by renewables, not fossils".

Notes

1. Greenhouse Gas Inventories for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland: 1990 - 2011

For further information, please contact Friends of the Earth Cymru on 029 2022 9577