Simon Milton’s Post

Today, we launch our reports to advise the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru, on how to accelerate climate action in Wales by 15 years in just and nature positive way. https://netzero2035.wales/ We were asked to 'examine potential pathways to net zero by 2035 – the current target date is 2050. This will look at the impact on society and sectors of our economy and how any adverse effects may be mitigated, including how the costs and benefits are shared fairly' Our group of experts on delivering emissions reduction pathways started in January 2023. Members have given exceptional support to this project alongside observers from the Welsh Government, Climate Change Committee, the Future Generations Commissioner’s Office, Aldersgate Group, NESTA and others. Our report is a suite of 7 reports entitled 'Pathways to a Prosperous and Resilient Wales in a Changing Future' - including specific dives into the 4 biggest emission contributors - energy, buildings, food and transport - and the two biggest opportunities for change; the enablers for changing systems and education, skills and the future of work. Underpinning our work is the unique Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act to ensure a just and nature positive transition in the pathways we propose. Our overarching headlines are: 1 Achieving net zero by 2035 will require a significant step change in ambition from the Welsh Government, support from the UK Government, and a greater societal mandate for change. 2 Huge benefits to the Welsh public are possible through a net zero transition, including improved public health, reduced pressure on our NHS, greater energy security, more resilient food supply and low-carbon job generation. 3 Urgent action is needed now to ensure Wales captures the value and benefits of a net zero transition over the long-term, whilst also limiting exposure to climate related risks and greater costs in dealing with the consequences of inaction. 4 Only a planned transition can be a just transition to net zero through proactive action to prepare Wales over the longer term and mitigate transition risks before more severe disruptions occur in the future. In undertaking this work, I think we’ve all been shocked to find very little evidence of country-wide plans to deliver outcomes to keep populations safe. We hope that there are lessons from this small country for others in the way we have undertaken this work It is our hope this could be the start of accelerated action to ensure Wales rises to the climate and nature challenge, ensuring a prosperous and resilient future. As John Rawls, American philosopher says, ‘Do unto future generations what you would have had past generations do unto you. To all those who have worked with us, I couldn't have had a better hive mind, and to our readers, thank you for your interest. 

Insights on pathways to net zero by 2035 for Wales, relevant to the wider UK and frankly anyone who gives a damn about future generations.  https://lnkd.in/eC4Sj4YE

Big thanks to Jane Davidson and the wider group (Stanley Townsend, Jo Jones, etc) in producing these excellent 2035 net zero reports. WWF Cymru fully welcome the work of the independent net zero expert group in outlining pathways to combat the climate crisis in Wales by 2035 and we were pleased to be invited to feed evidence into this work. As Jane states below, the report highlights that achieving net zero by 2035 will require a significant step change in ambition from the Welsh Government (and others), but also crucially, that huge benefits to the Welsh public are possible through a net zero transition, including improved public health, a more resilient food supply, economic stability and benefits for nature. WWF Cymru commissioned independent evidence earlier this year very relevant to the food pathway that showed that extreme weather events caused by climate change, such as droughts and floods, are already costing farmers in Wales tens of millions of pounds. By supporting farmers to mitigate and adapt to climate change through for example, nature-friendly or organic practices, farmers can not only tackle climate change, but also save millions of pounds. That's just one example of how a transition to net zero can deliver a wide range of benefits beyond just environmental benefit. We also recognised the significant evidence gaps on transitions of the food system towards net zero and fed our hot off the press 'Wales Land of Plenty' pathways report into this 2035 work. We were therefore particularly pleased to see recommendations from the 2035 food pathway such as: - Increased budgetary commitment to sustainable farming through the Sustainable Farming Scheme, and introducing Optional and Collaborative tier actions in Scheme by 2026 - Reducing the dominance of livestock production and incentives for growing a more diverse range of foods such as horticulture to better match what food we produce in Wales and consume in Wales to meet dietary needs - The important role for the marine environment including improved management of habitats such as seagrass meadows as nature-based solutions that can tackle climate change and benefit people through reducing coastal flooding, and incentivising the production and use of sustainably grown shellfish and seaweed - And crucially, a recommendation to set agricultural and land use sector targets for Carbon Budget 3 (2026-2030). Welsh Government’s last carbon budget did not set these targets, and without them, it is hard for anyone to understand where we are trying to get too. Urgent action is needed now to ensure Wales captures the value and benefits of a net zero transition. There are greater costs in dealing with the consequences of inaction.

What role can regions play in galvanising decisive #ClimateAction in the UK?    Our research shows how #Yorkshire & #Humber can achieve #NetZero and adapt to a changing climate - and calls for national government to extend its mission-driven approach to enable this.    We undertook an independent assessment on #decarbonisation in our region and reviewed over 700 interventions for their carbon- and cost-effectiveness. Significant progress can be achieved by achievable measures, especially increasing walking and cycling and improving public transport, that have real social & economic benefits. The good news is that Yorkshire and Humber can do this, and the investment needed is less than 3% of regional GDP with a return of £1.10 to £7.50 for every £1 invested. Read more in our report Our Carbon Story (link in comments).    The Commission are also working with Yorkshire & Humber’s local authorities to support them on their climate adaptation journeys. Through our project we have helped LAs to incorporate adaptation into organisational decision-making, enabling them to build capacity and strengthen climate resilience.  We believe this connected way of working is unique in the UK and has great potential to be rolled out nationally.    Yorkshire & Humber Climate Commission will be presenting our research at #EvidenceWeek with Sense about Science and Policy Leeds in Parliament on 21 January. We’re writing to MPs and Peers to invite them to join us for quick-fire policy briefings and to find out more.  With the UK announcing an ambitious new NDC (Nationally Determined Contribution) at #COP29, how place-based climate action can contribute to achieving the national as well as local targets will be vital. We believe Yorkshire and the Humber’s evidence and example can inspire other regions and lead the way!    https://lnkd.in/eyHKn7rd 

It’s #ScotClimateWeek which can only mean one thing – a long reading list! Loads of important publications this week, including: 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 The Third Scottish National Adaptation Plan (complete with jazzy new name #snap3), setting out the Scottish Government’s climate adaptation plans for the next 5 years. After a first scan through there are positive signs, including some of the Climate Change Committee 10 principles for good adaptation – A Vision for a Well-Adapted Scotland, addressing inequalities by focusing on a #JustTransition, and an indication of increased investment in adaptation action: https://bit.ly/4dlStUI 🏘️ A set of new reports from ClimateXChange to support policymaking around reducing emissions from homes and buildings, exploring clean heating options for challenging dwelling types and the data needs for compliance with the proposed standards for heating and #energyefficiency in the Heat in Buildings Bill: https://bit.ly/3XEBAij 🌿 An open letter from a group of NGOs and academics to the Secretaries of State for Energy and Net Zero and Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, highlighting the urgency and importance of integrating #nature into UK #netzero and #adaptation policies: https://bit.ly/47XIHrb A busy week which will be nicely rounded out with the upcoming Climate Action Summit in Edinburgh on Tuesday – looking forward to connecting with colleagues and continuing the momentum. Plenty to keep us busy! Waterman Group Dave Allen

📢 Important Consultation: Scotland's Climate Change Targets Bill The Scottish Government is proposing significant changes to its climate change strategy: • Moving from annual targets to 5-yearly carbon budgets • New framework for interim emission reduction goals • Potential changes to the next Climate Change Plan (CCP) due date This shift could reshape Scotland's approach to tackling climate change. The Net Zero, Energy and Transport (NZET) Committee is conducting pre-legislative scrutiny and needs your input! Why it matters: • Affects long-term climate strategy • Impacts various sectors including energy, transport, and construction • Could influence business plans and investments Who should respond: • Environmental experts • Business leaders • Local authorities • Concerned citizens Your views can help shape Scotland's climate future. Submit your response here: https://ow.ly/kgFs50SF18T Deadline: 16 August 2024 #ClimateChange #ScottishPolicy #NetZero #PublicConsultation #SustainableFuture

Great piece here from Climate Emergency! Why climate action should be a statutory duty:

📢 What role can regions play in galvanising decisive #ClimateAction in the UK?    Research by the Yorkshire & Humber Climate Commission shows how #Yorkshire & the #Humber can achieve #NetZero and adapt to a changing climate. It calls for national government to extend its mission-driven approach to enable this.    They undertook an independent assessment on #decarbonisation in our region and reviewed over 700 interventions for their carbon- and cost-effectiveness. Significant progress can be achieved by achievable measures, especially increasing walking and cycling and improving public transport, that have real social and economic benefits. The good news is that Yorkshire and Humber can do this, and the investment needed is less than 3% of regional GDP with a return of £1.10 to £7.50 for every £1 invested. Read more in our report Our Carbon Story (link in comments).    The Commission are also working with Yorkshire & Humber’s local authorities to support them on their climate adaptation journeys. Through their project, they have helped LAs to incorporate adaptation into organisational decision-making, enabling them to build capacity and strengthen climate resilience.  This connected way of working is unique in the UK and has great potential to be rolled out nationally.    Yorkshire & Humber Climate Commission will be presenting their research at #EvidenceWeek with Sense about Science in Parliament on 21 January. They are writing to MPs and Peers to invite them to quick-fire policy briefings and to find out more.  With the UK announcing an ambitious new NDC (Nationally Determined Contribution) at #COP29, how place-based climate action can contribute to achieving the national as well as local targets will be vital. Yorkshire and the Humber’s evidence and example can lead the way and inspire other regions with their mission driven approach.   🔗 Read the policy brief: https://lnkd.in/eyHKn7rd POST, UK Parliament University of Leeds Department for Energy Security and Net Zero House of Commons Priestley Centre for Climate Futures Energy Leeds

The UK's journey to Net Zero Carbon is a pressing issue, and it seems like the country has a long way to go. According to the Climate Action Tracker, the UK's current green commitments are not enough to achieve this goal. It's crucial that politicians don't row back on these commitments. The future of our planet depends on it. Check out the link to learn more about the UK's efforts towards Net Zero Carbon. #ClimateAction #NetZero #Sustainability

We are thrilled to see this commitment from the Scottish Government to continue to include people in decision-making on the complex topic of climate change. (https://lnkd.in/eCU7n9_u) We and Democratic Society worked together to lead the design and facilitation of Scotland’s first citizens’ assembly focused on climate change. — 🕐The timeline of the project 👇 📆 From November 2020 to March 2021, over 100 ordinary citizens from across Scotland deliberated about the climate emergency. They were tasked with answering the question: ❓‘How should Scotland change to tackle the climate emergency in an effective and fair way?’ — 💬 The Assembly discussed climate change, mitigation, adaptation, fairness, and the process of change. Working with the Children’s Parliament, they also ensured children’s voices were included in decision-making. 🌍👧🏽👦🏻 📝 Assembly members outlined their goals and recommendations in their Final Report, which also includes the integration of children's calls to action. 💪 👀Take a look at the report here 👇 https://lnkd.in/esQtUuv9 — 📆Afterwards, ministers released a detailed response to the Assembly's recommendations in December 2021, outlining progress of what was being done in Scotland to deliver and achieving their goals. 📖 The response: 👇https://lnkd.in/eHsVQzMX — ⤵️ Scotland's Climate Assembly met online in Feb 2022 to respond, with almost 75% of members participating. They discussed post-COP26 commitments, questioned Ministers, and drafted a Statement of Response with the Children's Parliament. ➡️ Their response👇 https://lnkd.in/eq9k6P8r — 🌍 Decisions made about tackling climate change should be rooted in the views and values of the public. We know involving the public is often the best – and often only – way to address our biggest problems, and it’s great to see the Scottish Government's continued commitment to this. 📘🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Read more about Scotland’s first citizens’ assembly on climate change here 👇https://lnkd.in/eKSqTDzi.)